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
04 December, 2022
A master regulator of plant immunity
Stress-response protein promotes the accumulation of metabolites that help anti-pathogen defenses.
02 November, 2022
Plant hormones to help prevent Striga invasion
Crop resistance to a significant parasitic plant could be increased through gene editing or chemical treatment.
31 October, 2022
Faculty in Focus: Prof. Ikram Blilou
Interview with CDA faculty member, Professor Ikram Blilou: "The aim is to provide sustainable food and implement agriculture in the Kingdom through an interdisciplinary approach."