Emirati farmer Mohammed Obaid Al Mazrouei has transformed his decade-long passion for flowers into a thriving farm that showcases over 25 imported flower varieties, with a total of 50,000 flowers on the farm.
The farm, which opened to the public in 2020, is located in the Aisima area of Ras Al Khaimah and has gained recognition for its stunning array. Al Mazrouei also hopes to produce locally made lavender oil and other unique floral products in the future.
His journey began over 10 years ago when, as a high school student, he dreamed of owning a flower farm.
His fascination led him to research various flower farms online, and during a trip to Europe, he collected seeds to plant in the UAE, which successfully flourished; later, he imported seeds from the US, the Netherlands, the UK, Russia, and Italy.
Initially, many doubted the viability of growing such flowers in the UAE, but through determination and persistence, he successfully cultivated rare and unique varieties.
Today, his farm boasts over 25 imported flower types, with plans to produce seeds from these blooms for local distribution. The types of flowers include Snapdragon, Salvia, Stock, and Mexican sunflower and others.
This season, Al Mazrouei introduced distinctive varieties from Switzerland to his farm, which he hopes will thrive in the upcoming growing season.
One of his proudest achievements is the lavender he planted last season, which withstood the summer heat and has now entered its second blooming season.
Al Mazrouei dreams of locally producing lavender oil, a sought-after product known for its versatility in creating perfumes, soaps, lotions, shampoos, and cosmetics. The farm is open daily for visitors from 7.30am to 6.30pm, except on Fridays when it opens after the Friday prayers.
Admission is priced at Dh15 per person, while children under three years and individuals with disabilities enter free. School students are also granted free admission.
In addition to flowers, Al Mazrouei initially operated an agricultural nursery, producing seedlings for other farms and cultivating vegetables for years. His agricultural knowledge stems from his father, who instilled a love of farming in him from a young age.
While he has shifted his focus primarily to flowers, he will be soon operating a farm in Bosnia, where he plans to cultivate around 10,000 lavender plants under the name of the UAE in Europe.
Al Mazrouei faced challenges in determining the optimal planting time for each flower variety, as some require two months to bloom while others take less time. Careful timing ensures that all flowers bloom simultaneously.
He has welcomed visitors from all over the region, with many expressing amazements at the farm's beauty, often returning multiple times a year.
Visitors consistently praise the farm, describing it as a different world, especially with its breathtaking floral views that provide tranquillity for families and children. The farm features horse rides for kids, various bird species, peacocks, and a cosy café.
During the summer months, the farm rests until September, preparing the soil with fertilizers and irrigation before planting begins in October.
Al Mazrouei has received recognition from Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of Supreme Council, for his achievements. Local government departments, including the municipality and tourism authority, have supported his efforts by issuing permits for the farm at no charge.
