Abu Dhabi: Two date palm oases in the UAE were recognised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) on Sunday for their importance as repositories of genetic resources, biodiversity and cultural heritage.

The Al Ain and Liwa oases, which are known as marvels of ancient hydrology, have joined a growing number of ecosystems within the UAE that to be formally recognised by UN organisations. The two oases are considered very important in terms of date grove production in the UAE.

Jose Graziano da Silva, FAO Director-General, designated both oases as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems, and praised the UAE’s active conservation efforts.