Future Food Forum 2024 opens in Dubai
Focus on the regional food sector
Future Food Forum 2024, a pivotal event for the Middle East food industry, begins on October 2 in Dubai. The forum promises to unite key stakeholders from government, industry, and academia and focus on innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and collaborative strategies vital for the future of food production.
Under the patronage of the UAE Ministry of Economy, this year’s forum, themed ‘Future Consumer, Future Government, and Future Food,’ aims to spotlight the regional food sector. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE Minister of Economy, will officially inaugurate the two-day event.
In its sixth iteration, Future Food Forum 2024 is organised by the UAE Food & Beverage Business Group in strategic partnership with Dubai Chamber. The event will feature sessions addressing pressing issues such as food security, climate change, sustainable packaging, supply chain innovation, and the empowerment of SMEs.
A catalyst
Saleh Lootah, Chairman of the UAE Food & Beverage Business Group and Managing Director of Al Islami Foods, said: “The Forum continues to be a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the food industry.
“We are excited to welcome stakeholders from around the globe to share insights on harnessing emerging technologies, including the Metaverse and AI, to create a sustainable food chain that meets evolving consumer needs,” he added.
The UAE’s food and agricultural transformation roadmap aims to boost the sector’s GDP contribution by $10 billion and create 20,000 jobs, highlighting the forum’s significance in shaping the food sector’s future in line with national goals.
Ahmed Al Shaibani, Head of Food Tech Valley, emphasised the initiative’s commitment to revolutionising food systems. “By fostering innovation across the entire value chain—from production to logistics—we are building a sustainable ecosystem that aligns with the UAE’s vision to become a global leader in food security by 2051,” he noted.
Prominent brands, including Agthia, Al Ghurair Foods, and Tetra Pak, are supporting the forum, which has garnered endorsements from significant industry organisations such as the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA).
Rizwan Ahmed, Executive Director of IFFCO Group, expressed enthusiasm for the event: “Future Food Forum 2024 embodies the UAE food industry ecosystem’s vision for tomorrow. Our commitment to innovation and sustainable development is stronger than ever, and we look forward to driving meaningful change through collaboration.”
As Future Food Forum 2024 opens its doors, anticipation is high for the emerging transformative discussions and initiatives that will pave the way for a more sustainable and innovative food sector in the UAE and beyond.
Middle East News 247 is a Media Partner of Future Food Forum 2024.
Featured image: The UAE’s food and agricultural transformation roadmap aims to boost the sector’s GDP contribution by $10 billion. Credit: Michael Burrows
