FAO Celebrates 80 Years Of Action With High-Level Event In The UAE

The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) marked its 80th anniversary during Abu Dhabi Global Food Week 2025. This event, organised by FAO's Subregional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council States and Yemen, highlighted the strong partnership between FAO and the UAE. The collaboration focuses on creating sustainable agrifood systems to tackle climate challenges, ensuring food security and inclusive development.

Ahmad Mukhtar, FAO Representative ad interim to the UAE, opened the event at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. He emphasised FAO's long-standing legacy and the pressing need to transform agrifood systems for both people and the planet. The event included a short film about FAO’s journey and a message from FAO Director-General QU Dongyu, reaffirming their commitment to "Leaving No One Behind."

Dr Mohamed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, spoke about the UAE's dedication to climate-resilient agriculture and environmental innovation. These are key elements of the national strategy and its partnership with FAO. Dr Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri from ADAFSA also highlighted their collaboration with FAO in food safety, agricultural sustainability, innovation, and policy support.

FAO’s Subregional Office in Abu Dhabi played a crucial role in coordinating regional efforts. It fosters dialogue, knowledge exchange, and promotes innovation across GCC States and Yemen. The celebration underscored how partnerships can advance agrifood-systems transformation and enhance food security throughout the region.

Ahmad Mukhtar stated: "As we celebrate 80 years of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, we are reminded that our mission has always been about people—their dignity, their resilience, and their right to hope." He added that this partnership reflects a shared belief in vision and innovation turning scarcity into opportunity.

The event was more than just a commemoration; it was a reaffirmation of collective action. It brought together UN systems, government institutions, and development partners in the UAE around a shared vision: a world free from hunger where no one is left behind.

Future Initiatives

FAO announced its participation in Abu Dhabi Global Food Week 2026. During this event, they will highlight the International Year of Women Farmers and Rangelands & Pastoralists. This celebration will honour communities central to transforming agrifood systems globally.

The collaboration between FAO and UAE embodies unity and possibility that defines their region. Together they are shaping policies that secure food today while ensuring sustainability for future generations.

With inputs from WAM