Abstract
Urban farming is seen as an essential approach to sustainable development, particularly in arid regions like Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, where limited arable land and water resources pose significant challenges. With an emphasis on reusing underutilized urban spaces like the industrial warehouses in Mina Zayed, this thesis explores the transformative potential of shifting from conventional agricultural methods to advanced smart farming approaches. The main objective of this project is to optimize the effective use of urban areas and improve water conservation in agricultural operations by integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology into hydroponic systems within these warehouses. The research proposes a solution that can be adapted to different scales and aims to develop an urban agricultural model that addresses key issues related to food and water security in Abu Dhabi’s urban environment. This is achieved through deployment of advanced sensors that monitor environmental factors like temperature, humidity, water flow, and light, enabling real- time adjustments within simulated indoor hydroponic setups. This strategy is expected to impact different sectors by enhancing water usage, boosting agricultural productivity, and improving resource management. Data for this study has been gathered and examined from a selection of current literature to support the validation of the suggested model. The study uses a mixed methods strategy to collect and analyze data, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques. Also, it demonstrates the effectiveness of IoT technology for real-time monitoring in hydroponic farming by using a simulation model that replicates the real environment. The outcomes from this simulation will provide valuable insights and strategic recommendations for the agriculture sector, urban planners, and policymakers, highlighting the potential of IoT technology to transform urban agriculture.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Hydroponics--United Arab Emirates--Abü Zaby; Warehouses--Remodeling for other use; Internet of things--United Arab Emirates--Abü Zaby; Urban agriculture--United Arab Emirates--Abü Zaby; Water conservation--United Arab Emirates--Abü Zaby; Agricultural innovations
Publication Date
2-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Student Type
Graduate
Degree Name
Professional Studies (MS)
Department, Program, or Center
Graduate Programs & Research
Advisor
Sanjay Modak
Advisor/Committee Member
Giovana Potesta
Recommended Citation
Benyas, Aysha, "Reusing Underutilized Warehouses: Impact of IoT Integration on Water Conservation in Hydroponic Farming within Mina Zayed Warehouses in Abu Dhabi" (2025). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/12052
Campus
RIT Dubai
Plan Codes
PROFST-MS
