Abu Dhabi's Top Research Centres Collaborate To Boost Food And Water Innovation

Abu Dhabi's new food and water cluster, AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance (AGWA), is partnering with five leading universities and technology enablers in the UAE capital to drive innovation, talent development, and advanced research. The aim is to address global food shortages and water security. Led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), AGWA will become a global hub for novel food and ingredients, as well as technologies that enhance access to water resources and their efficient utilization.The collaboration between ADIO, the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority Lab (ADIA Lab), Khalifa University, the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), and Hub71 will foster innovation and sustainable solutions in the food and water sectors. These research centers will play a crucial role in uncovering breakthroughs in areas such as alternative proteins, functional ingredients, algae, farming, and reverse osmosis membranes.AGWA aims to support local suppliers and exporters while meeting the increasing global demand for food. It also seeks to alleviate pressures on agricultural systems, address shifting dietary patterns, capitalize on technological advancements, and ensure a reliable supply chain for food and water. The five Abu Dhabi research-led organizations will collaborate with other AGWA companies to develop cutting-edge solutions and technologies, nurture talent, provide insights into emerging trends, and address market demands and challenges related to food and water.Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, highlighted the strength of Abu Dhabi's innovation ecosystem and its contribution to AGWA. He emphasized that this collaboration brings together specialist expertise from six world-class institutions to drive food security and water abundance.Dr. Horst Simon, Director of ADIA Lab, emphasized the importance of collaboration between experts from various fields to find solutions to global issues like food and water scarcity. He expressed his excitement about supporting cutting-edge research projects and hosting knowledge-sharing events as part of AGWA's success.Dr. Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of Khalifa University, expressed delight in collaborating with key stakeholders to contribute to AGWA. He highlighted Khalifa University's focus on converting agricultural waste into sustainable resources, advanced water treatment solutions, climate-smart agriculture, and scientific breakthroughs inspired by the UAE's unique desert environment. By combining their novel findings and technologies, they aim to create a more resilient future for the UAE.Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, emphasized the role of innovative technologies in developing sustainable food and water systems. He praised Abu Dhabi's pioneering initiatives in establishing the AGWA cluster and its potential to drive transformative technologies in the sector.Shahab Issa Abu Shahab, Director General at ATRC, highlighted the significance of AGWA in addressing global food and water challenges. ATRC is proud to be part of this initiative and looks forward to supporting the development of cutting-edge technologies for a sustainable food and water supply.The partnership between AGWA and the universities and technology enablers will establish a comprehensive framework for research and development activities. This framework will bring new products, processes, and services to market efficiently while supporting companies in integrating into global value chains. It will also provide continuous learning opportunities to enhance the skills of Abu Dhabi's workforce.Abu Dhabi's strong traditional farming base, with over 24,000 farms, half of which are in the Al Ain region, forms the foundation for AGWA. The cluster taps into a trillion-dollar industry with significant potential for economic growth and job creation. By 2045, AGWA is projected to contribute AED 90 billion in incremental GDP to Abu Dhabi's economy, create 62,000 new jobs, and attract AED 128 billion in investments.AGWA's collaboration with leading universities and technology enablers will drive innovation, talent development, and advanced research in the food and water sectors. With a focus on addressing global food shortages and water security, AGWA aims to become a global hub for novel food and ingredients, as well as technologies that enhance access to water resources. This partnership will contribute to Abu Dhabi's economy, create new jobs, and attract investments, while ensuring a reliable supply chain for food and water.

With inputs from WAM