Global Food Week 2024 Launches Tomorrow In Abu Dhabi To Tackle Food Security Challenges

The Global Food Week (GFW) is set to begin on Tuesday, November 26, at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi and will run until November 28. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this event aims to tackle urgent food security issues like agricultural sustainability and climate change. Organised by ADNEC Group and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), it seeks sustainable solutions.

Running alongside GFW, the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE) will highlight advancements in food technology, sustainability, and trade. With over 660 exhibitors from more than 70 countries, ADIFE provides a platform for business matchmaking, knowledge exchange, and culinary experiences. A notable feature is the Future Food Museum by the Spanish Plat Institute, focusing on zero-waste practices and food design innovations.

The Global Food Security Summit (GFSS), a key part of GFW, will host 21 ministers and officials who are pivotal in global food security. The Summit emphasises international cooperation to strengthen food security systems and combat hunger. It aims to develop strategies for sustainable food systems capable of facing future challenges while building global partnerships to address common issues.

More than 80 international speakers will participate in GFSS, including experts in climate-smart agriculture, agricultural technology, and supply chains. These discussions aim to create practical strategies for sustainable food systems that can withstand future challenges. The Summit also seeks to enhance global partnerships to improve food security worldwide.

The Abu Dhabi Coffee Festival is another highlight of GFW at ADIFE. Visitors can explore coffee culture through live competitions, exclusive brews, and workshops. The event features UAE’s top baristas competing at the SCA UAE National Coffee Championships. Organised by DXB Live and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) UAE, it promises a community-focused atmosphere with tickets starting at AED30.

In its tenth year, the Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition (ADDPE) will showcase the UAE’s role in the international dates sector. Representatives from over 20 date-producing nations will share insights into sustainable farming practices supported by the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation.

Engaging Events for All

GFW will host various live competitions such as the Brewers Cup highlighting exceptional coffee craftsmanship. Masterclasses on matcha tea and gourmet cooking are also planned. The World Gourmet Show will feature Michelin-starred chefs demonstrating culinary excellence by blending global flavours with sustainable practices.

The Hosted Buyers Programme invites 270 buyers from sectors like airline catering and hospitality for business matchmaking opportunities in the GFW VIP buyers’ lounge. Visitors can attend sessions with panel discussions facilitated by students from UAE University and international academic institutions aimed at inspiring future leaders in food security innovation.

Global Food Week 2024 represents a collective effort towards securing food for future generations. It leverages Abu Dhabi’s strategic position as a hub for agricultural innovation, trade, and collaboration.

With inputs from WAM