CENTER FOR DESERT AGRICULTURE
Research center at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Dedicated to the study, engineering, and implementation of sustainable agriculture in extreme environments
The global population is projected to reach
10 billion by 2050
How do we ensure a secure, safe, nutritious, and sustainable food supply for future generations?
The Center for Desert Agriculture is committed to finding smart and efficient solutions to
produce high-value crops and staples
reduce reliance on water, fertilizer, and pesticides
reduce greenhouse gas emissions
increase plant growth potential on marginal lands
empower the next generation of Saudi Arabian
citizens to be global leaders in sustainable agriculture
Photo by Linda Polik.
RESEARCH THEME
Our primary research focus is on field-based cropping systems, with 4 collaborative projects covering important aspects of sustainable agroecosystem agriculture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
RESEARCH GROUPS
Our international team of scientists investigate a broad variety of biology topics within 10 specialized research laboratories.
CDA NEWS
21 November, 2023
CDA professors among 2023's most influential researchers
CDA professors Salim Al-Babili and Yoshihide Wada have been recognized among the world's most influential researchers in 2023, as per the Highly Cited Researchers list released by the Clarivate Institute of Scientific Information.
01 November, 2023
One Planet One Health
Climate change affects every individual and every aspect of life, making urgent collaboration essential for a sustainable future. The One Planet One Health conference brings together experts in marine, soil, plant, and human fields to explore diverse approaches to climate change solutions within their respective domains.
29 October, 2023
KAUST Center for Desert Agriculture and MEWA host Workshop for Saudi Food Futures
The workshop, a result of the fruitful collaboration between CDA and MEWA, brought together key stakeholders who shared insightful perspectives and discussed strategic priorities, policy options, and innovative solutions for a systemic and sustainable agri-food transformation in the Kingdom and beyond.