25 tonnes of pure honey come from this centre in Dubai emirate every year

 The Hatta Honeybee Garden and Discovery Centre, known for producing pure honey, has rapidly emerged as an eco-tourism destination.

The facility, spanning 16,000 square metres in the Hajar mountains, is surrounded by ancient wild trees, including the samar, ghaf, and sidr. Home to 300 active beehives, this natural attraction offers not just a taste of honey but also an opportunity to learn about sustainable beekeeping in a picturesque setting.

Since opening its doors in 2018, the centre has combined commercial honey production with an educational role, attracting thousands of visitors to explore the UAE’s heritage in beekeeping. It offers interactive workshops that delve into the historical and ecological significance of bees and pollinators.

Visitors can learn about sustainable beekeeping practices, the diversity of bee species and hives, and the production of natural honey. The experience is enhanced by strolling through the garden’s vibrant array of flowers and plants, creating a unique blend of education and natural beauty.

The centre has established itself as a leader in producing 100% pure UAE honey, adhering to international quality standards. It produces around 25 tonnes of high-value honey annually, with a variety of types, including samar, sidr, ghaf, mangrove, and wildflower honey. This production takes place within a short two-month season. It also breeds nearly 5,000 queen bees each year.

By introducing innovative methods for locally producing queen bees, it has reduced the need for imports. This success marks a significant step forward in supporting the sustainability and growth of the honey production industry in Hatta, ensuring the sector thrives in harmony with the country’s unique environmental and climatic conditions.

The centre has established itself as a key player in advancing beekeeping practices through its community-driven initiatives, including a specialised training institute for beekeepers. It offers workshops, training programmes, and beekeeping courses that provide certification and equips participants with the skills to enhance their practices.

The centre conducts scientific research to assess the effectiveness of beekeeping programmes and policies while promoting the health benefits of honey through scientific studies.

It is committed to using science to protect bees and other pollinators, as well as developing research to combat food fraud and honey adulteration. The facility employs cutting-edge technology, including cameras and remote hive tracking systems, enabling staff to monitor temperature, humidity, and hive weight changes, as well as observe bee activity, such as entry and exit from the hives.