Global Food Week in Abu Dhabi seals Dh6.6 billion in deals, showcases food innovation

Event highlights UAE’s leadership in food security, technology, and sustainable farming

Last updated: October 26, 2025 | 07:07

2 MIN READ

Visitors explore the cutting-edge solutions in food security and agritech during the Global Food Week in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi: The 2025 Global Food Week in Abu Dhabi, which concluded earlier this week, saw the signing of 58 agreements worth around Dh6.6 billion, marking a 6.5% increase from the previous edition.

Organised by ADNEC Group — part of the Modon Holding portfolio — in partnership 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 reinforced Abu Dhabi’s growing global position as a hub for sustainable food systems and agritech innovation.

This year’s edition featured the return of two major international exhibitions — the 4th Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition and the 11th Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition — alongside new initiatives including Global Food Talks, the AgriTech Forum, and the Alternative Proteins Initiative. The week also included a range of interactive activities and side events.

Also Read: Global Food Week 2025 opens in Abu Dhabi with a focus on sustainable innovation

Over 40,000 visitors

The three-day event drew more than 40,000 visitors, up 16% from 2024, who explored the latest food and beverage products presented by leading local and international exhibitors.

The Hosted Buyers Programme played a key role in driving trade opportunities, connecting exhibitors and suppliers with over 400 senior buyers through tailored business meetings. The initiative boosted exhibitors’ visibility and delivered added value for all participants.

The Global Food Talks, which concluded on the second day, included 22 keynote addresses, panel discussions, and presentations, as well as informal dialogue sessions. Over 30 local and international experts shared insights on global food trends, covering food security, innovation, technology, and resilient food systems.

Also Read: Abu Dhabi launches strategic initiative to lead global food innovation and security

AgriTech Forum highlights innovation

Making its debut at this year’s event, the AgriTech Forum aimed to empower food producers and farmers worldwide, promote collaboration, and advance the UAE’s vision for sustainability and food security.

The first day focused on innovation across agricultural production, while the second day introduced the Agricultural Investment Forum, which spotlighted sustainable development, stronger food security frameworks, and a more attractive environment for agri-investment. The sessions featured success stories from across the UAE and unveiled more than 30 investment opportunities supporting sustainable agricultural growth.

Focus on sustainability and artificial intelligence

The third day highlighted the role of scientific research in strengthening food security, particularly in arid environments. Experts presented new studies on sustainable livestock production, honeybee health, sustainable agriculture, and the use of artificial intelligence in farming.

The Farmers’ Zone offered a dedicated space for local farmers to showcase UAE-grown produce, underlining their key role in supporting the nation’s food security ecosystem.

Alternative proteins take centre stage

As part of its focus on innovation, Global Food Week launched several new initiatives, including the Alternative Proteins Initiative, introduced by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office.

The initiative spotlighted breakthroughs in plant-based, fermented, and cultivated proteins, with specialised panel discussions featuring industry leaders and innovators exploring technologies shaping the future of global food.

Abdulla RasheedEditor - Abu Dhabi

Abdullah Rashid Al Hammadi  is an accomplished Emirati journalist with over 45 years of experience in both Arabic and English media. He currently serves as the Abu Dhabi Bureau Chief fo Gulf News. Al Hammadi began his career in 1980 with Al Ittihad newspaper, where he rose through the ranks to hold key editorial positions, including Head of International News, Director of the Research Center, and Acting Managing Editor. A founding member of the UAE Journalists Association and a former board member, he is also affiliated with the General Federation of Arab Journalists and the International Federation of Journalists. Al Hammadi studied Information Systems Technology at the University of Virginia and completed journalism training with Reuters in Cairo and London. During his time in Washington, D.C., he reported for Alittihad  and became a member of the National Press Club. From 2000 to 2008, he wrote the widely read Dababees column, known for its critical take on social issues. Throughout his career, Al Hammadi has conducted high-profile interviews with prominent leaders including UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and key Arab figures such as the late Yasser Arafat and former presidents of Yemen and Egypt. He has reported on major historical events such as the Iran-Iraq war, the liberation of Kuwait, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the establishment of the Palestinian Authority. His work continues to shape and influence journalism in the UAE and the wider Arab world.