IKTIFA Partners With Emirates Macaroni Factory To Produce Organic Pasta From Local Wheat

The Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Establishment, known as "IKTIFA," has entered into a cooperation agreement with the Emirates Macaroni Factory. This partnership involves the production of "Saba' Sanabel" organic pasta using wheat cultivated at the Maliha farm, which boasts a protein content of 19.3%, the highest in the world.

The agreement was formalised during the "Make it in the Emirates 2025" exhibition, hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology at Abu Dhabi's ADNEC Centre. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, CEO of IKTIFA, and Ahmed Saeed Belyouha, Chairman of Emirates Macaroni Factory, signed on behalf of their respective organisations.

This collaboration is part of Sharjah’s sustainable organic food security initiative. It aims to enhance local production while reducing dependence on imported food products. The Emirates Macaroni Factory will manufacture "Saba' Sanabel" pasta using eco-friendly practices, ensuring high-quality products remain available across the UAE.

Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji highlighted that this partnership aligns with His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi's vision for strengthening private sector collaborations. He stated, "We remain committed to working collectively to deliver clean, safe food that enhances the overall quality of life in the UAE."

Khalifa Al Tunaiji emphasised that focusing on local industries, especially organic sectors, is crucial for national growth. He noted how initiatives like "Make it in the Emirates" are pivotal for industrial progress and positioning the UAE as a leader in safe food production globally.

He added that IKTIFA plays a vital role in providing organic food to all societal segments, reinforcing its importance within this ecosystem.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

Ahmed Saeed Belyouha expressed that partnering with IKTIFA marks a significant step towards sustainable organic food production in the UAE. He remarked on Emirates Macaroni Factory's commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet international standards.

Belyouha stated, "This agreement allows us to further advance our path of growth and innovation, a journey that has lasted over fifty years in the pasta and its derivatives industry."

The decision to collaborate with Emirates Macaroni Factory was influenced by its reputation as a leading national institution with nearly five decades of experience. It is also recognised as the first factory in the UAE specialising in pasta production.

This strategic partnership not only supports Sharjah’s goals but also contributes significantly to enhancing local capabilities and fostering public-private sector collaboration.

With inputs from WAM