Second Global Food Week In Abu Dhabi To Tackle Food Security And Sustainability Challenges

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the second edition of Global Food Week is set to occur from 21st to 23rd October. Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with ADAFSA, this event aims to address critical issues in food, agriculture, and sustainability. It underscores Abu Dhabi's role as a global hub for sustainable food system discussions.

Dr. Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri, Acting Director-General of ADAFSA, stated that Global Food Week reflects Abu Dhabi's dedication to sustainable food systems and global food security. "Global Food Week embodies Abu Dhabi’s commitment to supporting sustainable food systems and enhancing global food security," he said. The event gathers experts and innovators to share knowledge and work towards Sustainable Development Goals.

The event serves as a platform for tackling food challenges, forming strategic partnerships, and showcasing agricultural technology solutions. Dr. Al Ameri highlighted the private sector's crucial role in advancing agricultural innovation and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors. Abu Dhabi is leading in adopting advanced technologies for sustainable food systems.

This year's edition will feature the launch of new regional initiatives like the first Proteins Alternative platform, AgriTech Forum, and Agricultural Investment Forum. These initiatives aim to highlight innovations in agriculture and promote investment opportunities in sustainable models.

The fourth Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition (ADIFE) will be part of Global Food Week, showcasing advancements in agricultural technology and culinary excellence. The inaugural AgriTech Forum will focus on innovations in agriculture and serve as a dedicated platform for startups in this sector.

For the first time in the region, an international initiative on protein alternatives will be introduced at Global Food Week. This initiative will spotlight innovations like lab-grown meat, encouraging investment in alternative solutions to meet rising global food demands.

The eleventh edition of the Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition (ADDPE) will also take place during Global Food Week. Organised with the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, ADDPE is a key networking platform for date suppliers, producers, experts, specialists, and visitors worldwide interested in date production.

Dr. Abdelouahhab Alboukhari Zaid noted that the exhibition advances date palm cultivation globally while preserving UAE's cultural heritage. "The Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition has established itself as a pivotal platform for advancing the date palm cultivation," he said.

Building on its successful inaugural edition with over 34,000 visitors and AED6.2 billion in business deals, Global Food Week 2025 expects participation from international organisations and industry pioneers across agriculture and food sectors.

This year's program promises a dynamic showcase of agricultural technology advancements alongside global policy discussions. It aims to support startups by providing them with a platform to present their projects to consumers and investors.

The Agricultural Investment Forum during Global Food Week will promote high-quality agricultural investments supporting food security through innovative technologies. It offers an interactive space for dialogue among government representatives, private sector leaders, local investors, and international stakeholders.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri emphasised that Global Food Week is crucial for positioning Abu Dhabi as an innovation centre in agriculture: "Global Food Week is a strategic milestone in Abu Dhabi’s journey to cement its position as a global centre for innovation."

This gathering of industry leaders from various sectors makes it an exceptional opportunity to shape future food systems worldwide while enhancing international cooperation on sustainable development goals.

With inputs from WAM