The UAE is advancing its global standing in food security
through innovative initiatives, strategic projects, and strong public-private
partnerships. Key developments include the launch of regulatory frameworks for
novel foods, record growth in the food and beverage sector, and significant
investment in agricultural technology and sustainable food systems.
UAE consolidates food security leadership through innovation and cooperation
As reported by ANI/WAM through The Tribune India, the UAE
continues to solidify its position as a global leader in food security and
sustainable food systems by implementing strategic projects that blend
technology, investment, and financing. These initiatives aim to create a fully
integrated food sector that enhances the UAE's competitiveness on both regional
and international levels. The cooperation between the public and private
sectors is vital in achieving self-sufficiency and strengthening resilient food
supply chains.
According to Saleh Lootah, Chairman of the UAE Food and
Beverage Manufacturers Group under Dubai Chamber, the UAE has become one of the
most advanced countries globally in food security. He emphasised Dubai’s
importance as a regional hub for food re-export and highlighted the critical
role of public-private partnerships in reinforcing the nation's position
post-COVID-19. Lootah described the Food Cluster Economy initiative by the
Ministry of Economy and Tourism as a "transformational step" that
integrates farms, factories, supply chains, and retail into a comprehensive
ecosystem, promoting a win-win outcome that benefits all stakeholders while
boosting national competitiveness.
Significant growth in food and beverage sector
Data from the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry
reveals that the food and beverage sector has seen record growth, with active
memberships rising to 24,594. The sector’s attractiveness to small and
medium-sized enterprises and start-ups increased by 42.2 percent in the first
half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Dubai’s innovative
agricultural projects and accelerator programmes are central to this growth,
supported by advanced infrastructure and strategic positioning that facilitate
food movement globally. Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, the Middle East's largest
port, manages approximately 73 percent of the UAE's food and beverage trade by
value, connecting to over 150 ports worldwide.
Financing and AgriTech innovation strengthen the sector
The Emirates Development Bank launched the UAE’s first
AgriTech financing programme in mid-2023 with a fund of AED 100 million
dedicated to supporting food security projects. This effort aims to foster
innovation in agricultural technology and empower start-ups in the sector.
Ahmed Al Shaibani, Director of Food Tech Valley, described this
partnership between Wasl and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment as
a strategic pillar of the National Food Security Strategy 2051, intended to
establish a resilient, sustainable food value chain and position the UAE as a
regional innovation hub.
UAE's food innovation regulatory framework
According to Gulf News journalist Fahad Gharib Al Shamsi and
WAM reports, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Abu
Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (QCC), and Abu Dhabi Investment Office
(ADIO) launched a regulatory framework to accelerate the market entry of novel
foods. This initiative aims to shorten registration periods by six to nine
months, streamline requirements including halal certification, and develop a national
database for approved novel food products. It adopts a science-based risk
approach and aligns with international best practices, thus boosting Abu
Dhabi’s position as a hub for food innovation and export competitiveness.
Badr Al-Olama, Director-General of ADIO, said the initiative
builds a connected business ecosystem combining forward-thinking regulations
with a robust investment environment. Dr Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri, Acting
Director-General of ADAFSA, highlighted the framework’s readiness to
accommodate emerging technologies like precision fermentation and cultivated
proteins. Fahad Gharib Al Shamsi stressed the importance of halal certification
modernization to align with global benchmarks, enhancing product marketability
internationally.
National food production success and local farm contributions
Gulf News reported the important role of local farms in
supporting the UAE’s food security goals. Among them, Arabian Farms, led by CEO
Tareq Sallam, guarantees 100 percent local egg production valued for freshness
and quality. Their sophisticated farming infrastructure ensures supply chain
resilience in the UAE’s challenging climate. Hassan Safi, CEO of Al Ain Farms
Group, explained how collaboration between top producers creates the largest
integrated egg-production network in the nation, producing over 400 million
eggs annually. The group has also reduced its carbon footprint by reformulating
feed, lowering CO₂ emissions by 2.25 percent.
Dr Suheel Ahmed, Group CEO of Arabian Food Production
Company, underlined their commitment to health and nutrition while supplying
fresh, premium-quality eggs across the Gulf region under brands such as Dana
Eggs and Khaleej. This local production growth reflects the nationwide success
in building food self-sufficiency.
Global Food Week highlights UAE leadership
Global Food Week 2025 demonstrated the UAE’s commitment to
food security for future generations by strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub
for agricultural innovation, sourcing, and investment. The event served as a
platform showcasing the UAE’s leadership role in food resilience and
sustainability, engaging global players to foster partnerships and innovation
in food systems.
UAE’s holistic national strategy
The Global Food Security Summit, held under the patronage of
H.H. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Chairman of the Abu
Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, brought together international
ministers and experts to discuss collaborative food security solutions. The
summit unveiled over 30 initiatives focusing on research and cross-sector
collaboration. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and
Environment, inaugurated the event, which emphasized sustainable, resilient
food systems and reducing food waste globally.
The UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, supported by innovative clusters like Food Tech Valley and strategic regulatory frameworks, positions the country to enhance self-sufficiency while attracting global investment. Emphasising innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, the UAE continues driving food security leadership that influences the regional and global agricultural landscape.