AGWA Signs Collaboration Agreement With Major Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Partners

Four major infrastructure partners in Abu Dhabi have signed a collaboration agreement to support the growth of AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance (AGWA), a new food and water cluster in the UAE capital. The cluster aims to address global food shortages and water scarcity by becoming a hub for novel food and ingredients, as well as technologies that increase access to water resources.

The collaboration between Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC, Abu Dhabi Airports Company PJSC, Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), and Masdar City, along with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), will create an enabling environment for AGWA cluster companies. These partners bring expertise in logistics, energy supply, sustainability, and business and technology facilitation, which will be essential in driving innovation and efficiency within the cluster.

AGWA is designed to support both local suppliers and exporters, maximizing commercial opportunities and meeting increasing global demand. The cluster will focus on addressing challenges in agricultural systems, shifting dietary patterns, and leveraging technological advancements to enhance global food security. By providing essential infrastructure and support, Abu Dhabi aims to establish a globally recognized food and water cluster that fosters innovation in alternative proteins, algae, reverse osmosis technologies, as well as traditional food and water production. The emirate also plans to strengthen the agricultural value chain, supply chain, and retail distribution.

Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, emphasized the importance of partnerships with key infrastructure partners in establishing Abu Dhabi as a global leader in the development, commercialization, and export of transformative solutions in the food and water industry. Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, highlighted the contribution of KEZAD (Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi) towards the National Food Security Strategy 2051. He expressed the group's commitment to transforming the global food supply chain through technology and partnerships.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports, emphasized the emirate's dynamic ecosystem that fosters innovation, sustainability, and commerce. Abu Dhabi Airports, through its subsidiary Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ), aims to drive regional and international trade, enhancing Abu Dhabi's global connectivity. This growth will facilitate the flow of imports and exports, strengthening global trade relations and creating new business and investment opportunities in the food and water sectors.

Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, expressed pride in being part of the coalition and highlighted Masdar City's commitment to advancing Abu Dhabi's sustainable economic framework. The free zone team in Masdar City is dedicated to providing support and resources for the success of AGWA cluster companies. Baghoum emphasized the importance of creating an environment that supports food security, water resources, and sustainable growth in Abu Dhabi.

Saeed Al Suwaidi, CEO of ADDC, stated that AGWA is a significant step forward in addressing global challenges and setting new benchmarks for innovation in food and water security. The initiative not only fosters economic growth and job creation but also demonstrates Abu Dhabi's dedication to sustainability, technological progress, and economic diversification.

AGWA is expected to contribute AED 90 billion in incremental GDP to Abu Dhabi's economy by 2045, creating 62,000 new jobs and attracting AED 128 billion in investments. The cluster builds on Abu Dhabi's leadership in advanced food and water production methods, as well as its strong traditional farming base. ADIO has previously partnered with innovative food and water companies focused on developing solutions for desert and arid climates.

The collaboration between these major infrastructure partners will play a crucial role in establishing AGWA as a global hub for food and water innovation. By leveraging their expertise and resources, Abu Dhabi aims to address pressing global challenges while fostering economic growth and sustainability.

With inputs from WAM