From Sand to Harvest: Saudi Startup Arable Raises $2.55 Million to Transform Desert Farming

In the heart of Saudi Arabia's expansive deserts, where scorching temperatures and arid conditions have long challenged traditional agriculture, a new hope is blossoming. Arable, a forward-thinking agritech startup, has announced a triumphant $2.55 million seed funding round, marking a significant milestone in their quest to revolutionize farming in extreme climates.

The funding, garnered from a blend of passionate private investors and supportive institutional backers, reflects a growing confidence in Arable's mission. "We're absolutely thrilled by the support we've received," exclaimed CEO Lawrence Ong. "This investment isn't just a boost for Arable—it's a vote of confidence in the future of sustainable agriculture in places thought impossible to cultivate."

Established in 2024 by Ong and COO Christina Khalife, Arable is the culmination of their shared vision and diverse expertise. Ong, known for scaling startups across various industries, brings a strategic edge, while Khalife's rich background as an Agricultural Engineer—including setting up hydroponic farms in West Africa and shaping environmental policies with the UN ESCWA in the MENA region—grounds the company in practical innovation.

"I remember standing in a West African village, seeing the potential of hydroponics to change lives," Khalife shared. "Bringing that potential to my region, where the desert is both a challenge and an integral part of our identity, felt like a calling."

At the core of Arable's innovation are their custom-designed hydroponic systems, meticulously engineered to withstand and even leverage the intense Saudi sun. Unlike imported technologies that often wilt under extreme conditions, Arable's solutions promise resilience and efficiency, turning barren landscapes into green hubs of productivity.

"Our systems can be set up four times faster and at a fraction of the cost compared to what's currently available," Ong pointed out. "We wanted to remove as many barriers as possible for local farmers to adopt sustainable practices."

Furthermore, with 80% of components sourced or manufactured locally, Arable isn't just transforming agriculture—it's stimulating the Saudi economy. "Supporting local industries was a no-brainer," Khalife emphasized. "It's about creating a sustainable ecosystem, not just technologically but economically and socially."

This ambitious endeavor aligns seamlessly with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a nationwide initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing dependency on oil. Deputy Minister Mohammad Abahussain of the Ministry of Investment praised Arable's efforts: "The Ministry supports ventures that not only drive innovation but also address critical needs like food security. Arable exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking enterprise that will propel the Kingdom into a sustainable future."

As they look ahead, Ong and Khalife are filled with a sense of purpose and optimism. "We're not just growing plants; we're cultivating possibilities," said Ong. "Imagine the deserts of Saudi Arabia becoming a beacon of sustainable agriculture—that's the future we're actively building."

Khalife added with a smile, "Every leafy green we produce is a step towards a greener planet. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that our work has the potential to nourish communities and inspire change globally."