This 82-year-old farmer has been growing mangoes in UAE for 50 years
At 82 years old, Ahmed Mohammed Gharib continues to care for his mango orchards with the same passion that inspired him more than five decades ago. His remarkable journey began after tasting a mango for the first time. Determined to grow the fruit in the UAE, he travelled to India and Pakistan to collect mango seeds and saplings before planting them on his farm in Fujairah.
Over the years, Gharib dedicated himself to learning how to cultivate mangoes in the UAE's climate. Through patience, experience, and continuous experimentation, he successfully developed several mango varieties that thrive in local conditions, turning his passion into a lifelong farming legacy.
A Lifetime of Innovation in Mango Farming
Gharib's farms in Sharm and Al Bidya, Fujairah, are home to thousands of mango trees, along with citrus fruits and date palms. Although a team assists with daily work, he personally oversees every stage of cultivation, believing that experience is the key to successful farming.
Today, he grows several popular mango varieties, including:
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Arabi Hamadh
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Hindi Hamadh
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Lumi
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Fifai
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Arabi Moza
He also spent years cross-breeding different varieties to create mangoes better suited to the UAE's environment, demonstrating his commitment to improving local agriculture.
Harvest Depends on Nature
According to Gharib, mango production varies each year depending on weather conditions and overall growing circumstances.
During a good season, his farms can produce:
Around 12,000kg of mangoes
Average harvests of 10,000kg
Challenging seasons may yield around 5,000kg
Despite the changing harvests, his love for farming has remained unchanged. He believes that proper irrigation, timely fertilisation, pruning, and patience are essential for producing high-quality fruit.
Promoting Emirati Agriculture
Beyond farming, Ahmed Mohammed Gharib actively participates in agricultural exhibitions and mango festivals across the UAE. This week, he is showcasing his harvest at the Khor Fakkan Mango Festival, where visitors can explore several of the unique mango varieties grown on his farms.
For Gharib, these festivals are about more than selling fruit. They provide an opportunity to highlight the quality of locally grown produce and inspire younger generations to pursue agriculture, ensuring that the UAE's rich farming heritage continues for years to come.
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