Challenges and Opportunities for UAE Farm Owners Amid High Winter Demand
As winter approaches, the UAE’s farm owners are experiencing a surge in demand for their rental properties. The cooler weather and picturesque surroundings make these farms an attractive destination for gatherings and events. However, alongside this high demand, farm owners face significant challenges that threaten the sustainability of their businesses. From tenant behavior issues to operational and environmental hurdles, managing these properties requires a delicate balance of hospitality and resilience.
High Demand, High Expectations
The winter season is a peak time for farm rentals, with facilities like Bu Rashid Farm in Ajman witnessing repeat bookings. “The demand is high in winter because the weather is nice, and the place is clean and tidy. Thank God, customers book with me once, twice, or even ten times,” the owner shared. Bu Rashid Farm, which accommodates up to 100 guests, operates on a 12-hour rental system but does not offer overnight stays. While the demand is encouraging, it also exposes farm owners to varied tenant behaviors, ranging from respectful to problematic.
Tenant Behavior: A Mixed Bag
Many guests treat rented properties with care, maintaining cleanliness and respecting rules. However, others pose significant challenges. Some tenants leave the premises in a deplorable state, ignoring the provided waste disposal facilities. Despite placing multiple garbage bins across the property, farm owners often find trash scattered everywhere. One owner shared a video on TikTok, showcasing the aftermath of an event where food and garbage were left in disarray.
To mitigate these issues, owners implement cleaning measures and hire professional services to restore the property. However, this adds to operational costs. Mohammad Salem Obaid, a farm owner in Masafi, highlighted additional issues such as tenants overstaying their rental period, causing delays in cleaning and subsequent bookings. Last-minute cancellations, often for trivial reasons, also add to the challenges.
Ignoring house rules is another persistent problem. Tenants sometimes play loud music, bring prohibited items like alcoholic beverages, or refuse to pay for damages. These behaviors not only disrupt operations but also place farm owners in difficult positions, as enforcing rules can lead to conflicts.
Operational and Environmental Challenges
Beyond tenant-related issues, farm owners face high operational costs and environmental challenges. Properties in remote areas, such as Al-Madam in Sharjah, require significant investment in infrastructure. High summer temperatures damage vegetation, necessitating irrigation and protective measures like building brick walls and interlocking flooring to combat sandy conditions.
The remote locations of many farms also pose logistical difficulties. Cleaning companies and suppliers often struggle to access these areas, leading to delays and increased costs. Additionally, intense competition in the market forces farm owners to lower their rates, further squeezing profit margins. “All these factors create a challenging environment for us,” remarked one owner.
Balancing Demand and Sustainability
Despite these challenges, farm owners are finding ways to adapt and sustain their businesses. Here are some strategies being implemented or considered:
1. Stricter Policies and Contracts
Farm owners are introducing clear rental agreements with penalties for rule violations, such as late check-outs or property damage. Security deposits are becoming standard practice to cover potential losses. By setting expectations upfront, owners hope to minimize tenant-related issues.
2. Enhanced Infrastructure
Investments in infrastructure, such as better road access and utility extensions, are crucial for improving operational efficiency. Sustainable practices, like solar-powered irrigation systems, can help reduce long-term costs while maintaining the property’s appeal.
3. Community Collaboration
Collaborating with other farm owners can create a support network to standardize pricing and share resources. Joint efforts can also focus on tenant education, emphasizing the importance of respecting farm properties.
4. Technology Integration
Technology can streamline operations and enhance tenant management. Online booking systems with automated reminders for check-out times and surveillance cameras to monitor property use can help enforce rules and improve accountability.
Looking Ahead
The growing demand for farm rentals during the UAE’s winter season presents a lucrative opportunity for property owners. However, addressing the challenges of tenant behavior, operational costs, and environmental factors is essential for long-term success. By implementing stricter policies, enhancing infrastructure, and leveraging technology, farm owners can create a sustainable model that balances profitability with guest satisfaction.
As the market evolves, the resilience and adaptability of farm owners will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this burgeoning industry. With the right strategies, these properties can continue to thrive as sought-after destinations for winter gatherings in the UAE.