The 2021 assessment of the worldwide mushroom market valued it at $50.3 billion. The market is anticipated to progress from $55.18 billion in 2022 to a projected $126.95 billion by 2030. This growth reflects a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% within the projected timeline of 2023 to 2030. Presently, the UAE imports 85% of its consumed food; however, there is a strategic objective to enhance food security by boosting domestic production.

In line with this strategy, novel farms have commenced the cultivation of “specialty mushrooms” like shiitake, oyster, king oyster, and lion’s mane within Abu Dhabi’s desert. Projections indicate that the UAE mushroom cultivation market is set to experience a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast window spanning from 2022 to 2029. This amounts to significant growth with a positive outlook. Factors driving the market include increasing consumer awareness of the nutritional benefits of mushrooms, rising demand for organic and locally grown produce, and the expansion of the food service industry. Technological advancements and innovative cultivation techniques also contribute to improved yields and product quality. This thriving industry therefore presents lucrative opportunities for farmers and investors, ensuring sustainable growth and a promising future.

For example, one of the indoor farms is about 45 minutes’ drive from downtown Abu Dhabi and is the first in the region to grow and sell high-end mushrooms. The farm uses local materials and upcycles palm leaves from local date farms in the UAE to grow mushrooms in controlled environments using vertical farming techniques. The farm also prioritizes sustainability by growing mushrooms on special blocks made mainly from upcycled waste date palms.

Needless to say, locally produced mushrooms are better than imported ones because mushrooms damage very easily and lose their freshness quickly.