Future Food Forum 2025 Opens In Dubai To Strengthen UAE’s Role In Global Food Security And Trade

The Future Food Forum 2025 commenced in Dubai, under the auspices of the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, inaugurated this seventh annual event. It serves as a key platform for discussions on the future of the food sector, gathering global industry leaders and innovators to enhance food security and innovation.

Bin Touq emphasised that the Forum aligns with the UAE's economic diversification strategy. The government recently formalised the National Policy for Economic Clusters, aiming to boost interconnected industries like food. This policy is projected to contribute over AED 30 billion to the national economy. "The UAE is committed to building a resilient food sector underpinned by innovation and sustainability," said H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri.

The UAE Food Cluster, established by the Ministry of Economy as part of the National Food Security Strategy 2051, unites stakeholders across the value chain. Since its inception, it has engaged over 700 partners from more than 500 companies. The Cluster aims to increase its GDP contribution from AED 30 billion to AED 40 billion by 2028 and expand food trade from AED 25 billion to AED 40 billion.

This year's Forum saw the launch of several initiatives, including the Knowledge Hub and Global Buyers Programme. These are designed to connect academia with industry and facilitate international market access for UAE producers. A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed between GS1 Emirates Limited and UAE Food Cluster CLG FZCO to create a universal product catalogue for the UAE’s food sector.

The agreement focuses on digitalising product data using GS1 global standards, enhancing traceability and fraud prevention. This collaboration aims to improve efficiency, strengthen consumer trust, and support regulatory compliance by integrating product identification across stakeholders.

Commitment to Sustainable Food Systems

Saleh Lootah, Chairman at UAE Food Cluster, stated: "At this year’s Forum, we are providing a collaborative platform where key stakeholders can come together." He highlighted their commitment to strengthening global trade connections and advancing long-term food security. Hassan Safi, CEO of Al Ain Farms, echoed this sentiment: "As a founding partner, Al Ain Farms is proud to sponsor the Future Food Forum 2025."

Day one of the Forum underscored UAE's leadership in shaping global food strategies. Discussions focused on new models for resilient food ecosystems and how CEPA agreements create manufacturing opportunities. Panels on SMEs, logistics, consumer trends, and sustainable proteins showcased how global best practices inform local strategies.

Strategic Execution and Alignment

High-level CEO sessions with the Minister and technical workshops on standards harmonisation highlighted strategic execution at the Forum. Day two will focus on advanced technology integration and innovation-driven growth in food manufacturing. The event is presented by Food Tech Valley with founding partners like Almarai and Al Ain Farms.

DP World joins as a trade enabling partner while Abu Dhabi Food Hub – KEZAD serves as supply chain partner. Platinum partners include Al Islami, Nestlé Middle East, RSA Cold Chain, BRF, with GS1 UAE as an innovation partner. The Forum continues to position itself as a model for accelerating competitiveness through collaboration in the food sector.

The Future Food Forum exemplifies how collaboration can drive progress in food security and innovation within the UAE's economic landscape. By uniting government entities with private sectors and academia, it aims to foster sustainable growth in line with national priorities while contributing globally impactful solutions.

With inputs from WAM