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
CDA stars in National Geographic documentary
01 June, 2022
National Geographic launches Chasing Answers, a four-part series that explores the emergence of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) as a global hub for groundbreaking scientific research and development. The documentary highlights KAUST as home to distinguished scientists from all over the world, focusing on research that applies science and technology to areas of universal concern.
Episode 3 stars the Center for Desert Agriculture (CDA) when addressing the 10 billion people challenge; how can we sustainably grow enough nutritious food to feed the world by 2050, without destroying our planet? CDA Director Rod Wing, Associate Director Mark Tester, and other faculty members explain how the center contributes to tackling this crucial challenge.
Watch it below or here and marvel at the compelling stories of KAUST and how the CDA significantly impacts both nature and humankind.
For more information, visit NatGeoTV.