News DeskABU DHABI: Global Food Week has become a showcase for the UAE’s ambitious drive towards food security, with national small and medium enterprises (SMEs) taking centre stage to present their products and connect with the international food ecosystem.
The strategic event, which brings together global expertise and homegrown initiatives, is designed to build a resilient and sustainable food system from farm to table. Its focus on procurement, supply chains, innovation, and market access reflects the rapid evolution of the country’s food and beverage sector.
This year’s event has placed a strong emphasis on the role of local producers and the tangible support for Emirati entrepreneurs, particularly women.
Ghalia Albannai, Manager of AlNoud Farm in Al Ain, said the community has shown great interest in supporting local agriculture. Her farm, which offers honey and dates, has drawn significant attention from visitors and business owners.
“We seek to encourage the community to support local products,” Albannai said.
The theme of leadership support was echoed by Noura Khalifa Al Jaber of Azbat Brida Products, which presented more than 150 locally produced items, including eggs and butter. She revealed her participation was by invitation from the Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award.
“We have received great support from the wise leadership, who have championed the empowerment of women in all fields,” Al Jaber said.
From agricultural heritage to cutting-edge technology, the range of Emirati innovation was on full display. Bu Theeb Nursery & Fruits Farm, supervised by Salah Sayed, presented award-winning varieties of dates and fruits, while Mona Al Mansoori’s project, By Gezelle, offered dates in creative styles mixed with nuts.
For home-based businesses, the platform offered a vital launchpad. Maryam Khalifa Al Zaabi, who began her perfume and incense project with support from the Women’s Union, said she uses social media and event participation to grow her business.
“We hope our business will flourish soon,” Al Zaabi said.
In the realm of agritech, AlFafa Agricultural LLC, Managed by Naser Al Zaabi, demonstrated how technology is revolutionising local production. The strawberry farm uses artificial intelligence to achieve a production exceeding 1,200 tonnes per month.
“Local agriculture provides an economic alternative to imports and reduces the risks associated with them,” Al Zaabi said, outlining ambitions to reach 5,000 tonnes annually.
Participants unanimously highlighted that government support is a major driver in encouraging agricultural investment and promoting sustainable development.
They concluded that platforms such as Global Food Week are a significant incentive to continue developing their products, expanding their businesses, and contributing to the nation’s goal of food self-sufficiency.
More than just an event, Global Food Week 2025 represents Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to agricultural innovation and trade, underpinning efforts to ensure sustainable food security for future generations.
