Global Food Week 2025 Launches in Abu Dhabi Focused on Susta

The Global Food Week 2025 has officially commenced in Abu Dhabi, bringing together a diverse array of participants from around the world. This significant event, running from October 21 to 23, aims to foster dialogue and innovation in the food and agriculture sectors, focusing on sustainability and food security.

Event Overview

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Global Food Week is being held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This year, the event has attracted 2,070 participants from 75 countries, including 18 first-time exhibitors. Emirati companies account for a substantial portion of the event, with 1,055 exhibitors representing 51% of the total participants.

Organized by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the event showcases a wide range of global brands and innovations in food technology, agri-tech, supply chain logistics, and sustainable nutrition.

Strategic Partnership with FAO

A key highlight of this year’s Global Food Week is its strategic partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This collaboration aims to enhance global food security and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The FAO is represented by a high-level delegation, continuing its role in facilitating discussions on food challenges and providing scientific insights and policy recommendations to combat climate change.

This partnership reinforces the UAE’s commitment to international cooperation in addressing food security challenges and positions Abu Dhabi as a central hub for dialogue and action in the agricultural sector.

Record Participation and Growth

The 2025 edition of Global Food Week has seen unprecedented growth across multiple metrics. Exhibition space has increased by 15%, reaching 33,542 square meters, while the number of exhibitors has risen by 9% compared to the previous year. The event has also expanded its international reach, with an 11% increase in participating countries, now totaling 75.

Notably, 543 exhibitors are participating for the first time, reflecting the growing interest from global corporations and decision-makers eager to engage in this leading platform for food innovation and sustainable development.

Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition

Running concurrently with Global Food Week is the 11th Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition. This exhibition features representatives from 20 date-producing countries across 90 pavilions, showcasing the best in date cultivation and processing. Dates hold cultural significance in the region and are increasingly recognized for their role in sustainable food systems, especially in the context of climate change and rising global food demand.

Operational Excellence

Ahmad Al Obaidli, Chief Operating Officer at ADNEC Group, emphasized the importance of operational readiness in hosting such a significant event. He stated that the success of Global Food Week relies on the efficiency of their teams, who work diligently to ensure that the event reflects Abu Dhabi’s prestige.

Additionally, the AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance (AGWA) cluster is launching the region’s first Alternative Proteins initiative during the event. This initiative aims to connect investors with innovators to develop sustainable food systems, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s status as a leader in food innovation.

Focus on Alternative Proteins

A major feature of this year’s event is the Alternative Proteins initiative, designed to accelerate innovation in the food sector. This platform brings together innovators, food and beverage companies, regulators, and investors to explore sustainable food production methods.

Ahmad Shaker, CEO of Capital 360 and Capital Events, highlighted the initiative’s role in supporting food ecosystems and achieving self-sufficiency. Fatma Al Dhaheri, Director of AGWA at ADIO, added that this initiative serves as a unique global platform to enhance collaboration and innovation in the food sector.

Global Collaboration Opportunities

The Alternative Proteins event will provide a forum to address key areas such as regulatory alignment, access to finance, and the role of food innovation in enhancing food security. This collaborative approach aims to drive transformation within Abu Dhabi’s innovation ecosystem and the broader food system.

New Initiatives and Programs

This year’s Global Food Week also introduces several new initiatives, including:

– **Hosted Buyers Program:** Over 400 international corporate representatives will connect with local suppliers to explore partnership opportunities. – **AgriTech Forum:** The first dedicated platform for agri-innovation startups. – **Agricultural Investment Exhibition:** Showcasing opportunities in the agricultural sector for sustainable economic growth. – **Alternative Proteins (PALT) Event:** Highlighting advancements in sustainable food production, organized by AGWA under ADIO.

FAQs

What is the purpose of Global Food Week 2025?

Global Food Week 2025 aims to foster dialogue and innovation in the food and agriculture sectors, focusing on sustainability and food security.

How many countries are participating in this year’s event?

This year, the event features participants from 75 countries, including 18 first-time exhibitors.

What initiatives are being launched during Global Food Week?

Key initiatives include the Alternative Proteins initiative, the AgriTech Forum, and the Agricultural Investment Exhibition, all aimed at promoting innovation and sustainability in the food sector.

Conclusion

Global Food Week 2025 in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step towards enhancing global food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. With record participation and innovative initiatives, the event sets the stage for fruitful collaborations and advancements in the food industry. As the event progresses, stakeholders are encouraged to engage actively in discussions and partnerships that will shape the future of food systems worldwide.

Also Read:

Sharjah Investment Forum 2025 Kicks Off with Global Leaders

DDLJ at 30: Reflecting on Its Cultural Legacy

Higher Education’s Role in Industry 5.0 Transformation