Armela Farms

A fully electric, fossil-free (semi-)closed greenhouse that approaches zero irrigational water demand through use of industrial condensate that is generated by the cooling system.

Features
Client: Armela Farms
Start construction: October 2020
Crop(s): Leafy Greens
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Size: 22.180 m2

Solution
Armela Farms is home to the largest automated facility for lettuce production in the Middle East. Designed for year-round cultivation, the greenhouse is equipped with full mechanical cooling to maintain maximum production in the extreme desert climate. The project has also shown that iceberg lettuce can be successfully grown on the MGS system, expanding the range of crops suitable for this advanced growing method.

Innovative solutions

Technologies implemented in this project:

  • Air cooler condensate is treated into irrigation water within the greenhouse, reducing the water demand to almost zero. 
  • CO2 is kept inside the greenhouse with continuous recirculation, heavily reducing the greenhouse’s CO2 demand. 
  • Fully automated and fully cooled greenhouse: day and night
  • The combination between a high-tech (semi-)closed system and lettuce is by itself already innovative and results in high yield, while keeping the energy and water demand to an absolute minimum. 
  • Fully electric and fossil free.

Project description

Armela Farms operates a state-of-the-art, semi-closed ModulAIR greenhouse in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, dedicated to year-round production of lettuce. The facility, covering over 30.000 m2, utilizes advanced hydroponic systems and climate control technologies to optimize plant growth in the challenging desert environment.

Leveraging our expertise in advanced greenhouse design, climate control, and automation, we delivered a fully integrated data-driven system. Together with our partners, including Hoogendoorn Growth Management and Rijk Zwaan, we ensure optimal growing conditions through precise monitoring of temperature, humidity, and other critical parameters.

A key feature is its water management system. By capturing and recycling air cooler condensate, the greenhouse significantly reduces its water consumption, addressing the region’s water scarcity issues. The closed loop irrigation system further minimizes water usage, aligning with sustainable agricultural practices.

With a production capacity of over 9 million lettuce heads annually, Armela Farms contributes to the UAE's food security goals by providing fresh, locally grown produce.

Showcase video of the project

Mobile Gully System (MGS)

Mechanical and adiabatic cooling combined

Growing lettuce in a desert environment: fossil-free and with a minimal water footprint

Ambitious plans?

Do you want to achieve the best results for your company? We’re ready. +31 88 262 66 66

Bob
Hunsche

Manager Sales