RIYADH – Topian, NEOM’s food company, has unveiled its first high-tech greenhouse in Oxagon, the industrial hub situated along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast.

The four-hectare facility, located in Oxagon’s Innovation Bay, is designed to pilot sustainable, localized food production using advanced agricultural technologies. The greenhouse aims to produce nearly 4,000 tonnes of fruits and vegetables annually while developing AI-driven predictive models to optimize operations in similar environments.

This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, focusing on enhancing food security, combating climate change, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.

“This project is exciting because it allows us to control the climate for plant growth in an environmentally friendly manner,” said Juan Carlos Motamayor, CEO of Topian. “It represents a significant step towards boosting regional and national food security and transforming food systems in Saudi Arabia and other arid regions affected by climate change.”

The pilot project will evaluate crop performance under various conditions, prioritizing energy and water efficiency, cooling technologies, and radiation control. It will leverage NEOM’s future renewable energy infrastructure to further optimize production.

Vishal Wanchoo, CEO of Oxagon, stated, “This pilot aims to deliver, at scale, sustainably produced ingredients for NEOM residents and hospitality partners, demonstrating a localized ‘farm-to-table’ supply chain.”

The greenhouse will provide year-round availability of locally grown produce, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and strawberries, prioritizing quality and sustainability. Scientists will analyze taste, color, and texture to refine crop production for the consumer market.

Developed in collaboration with Van der Hoeven, a Dutch horticultural technology firm, the project serves as a testbed for innovative agricultural solutions. It aligns with NEOM’s broader goals to establish sustainable industries and address food security challenges in arid regions.

By showcasing the potential of clean technology and innovative farming practices, Topian’s greenhouse project underscores NEOM’s commitment to pioneering solutions that address global challenges and set a benchmark for future sustainable development.