Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has issued a stern reminder that cryptocurrency mining on agricultural land is strictly prohibited, warning violators of heavy penalties, including a Dh100,000 fine. The authority said it discovered multiple cases of farms being misused for crypto mining operations—activities it stressed are “outside the scope of permitted economic uses” under current legislation. “Such practices contradict the primary purpose of farms, which is limited to agriculture and livestock,” ADAFSA said in a statement. Under the new enforcement measures, violators will not only face a Dh100,000 fine, which doubles for repeat offenses, but also risk losing all government services and support programs provided to farms. ADAFSA confirmed that it will also disconnect electricity, confiscate mining equipment, and refer cases for further legal action. The crackdown applies to both farm owners and tenants. Authorities say crypto mining puts a strain on resources, undermines agricultural sustainability, and threatens biosecurity. ADAFSA urged all farm owners and workers in both the plant and animal sectors to strictly adhere to the approved uses of farmland. “Any deviation jeopardises the continuity of support and conflicts with sustainability policies,” the agency warned. ICA/Expat Media
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