ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

Lulu Group signed sourcing agreements with SILAL and Mustadama Farms to expand the promotion of homegrown produce across its stores as part of its 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations.

Lulu Group, which operates the well-known Lulu chain of supermarkets, launched the “Al Emarat Awwal” (UAE First) initiative, reaffirming its commitment to supporting UAE-manufactured products and the wider agricultural sector. The initiative aims to enhance the visibility and market reach of UAE-grown produce and locally made products across Lulu stores.

The agreement with SILAL was signed by Humaid Ahmed Al Rumaithi, CEO of Food Security at SILAL, and Ashraf Ali M.A., Executive Director of Lulu Group. The sourcing agreement with Mustadama Farms was signed by Rashed Alzaabi, CEO of Mustadama Farms, and Salim M.A., Global Operations Director of Lulu, in the presence of Yusuffali M.A., Chairman of Lulu Group. 

The launch of the “Al Emarat Awwal” initiative took place at Lulu Hypermarket in Khalidiyah Mall, Abu Dhabi, attended by senior government officials, dignitaries and industry leaders. They included Sheikh Mohamed bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dhabi Holdings PJSC; Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Secretary General of the UAE Wrestling Federation; Hasan Jasem Al Nowais and Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Undersecretaries at the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology; and Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, among others. 

“Al Emarat Awwal reflects our wider commitment to supporting the UAE’s vision for a self-reliant and sustainable future. We will continue to promote sustainable agriculture, support UAE-manufactured products, and contribute to the nation’s long-term food security goals,” said Yusuffali M.A. 

As part of the ceremony, UAE farmers were honoured for their exceptional dedication to sustainable farming and their contribution to the country’s agricultural development.

Lulu said the sourcing partnerships with SILAL and Mustadama Farms will strengthen market access for UAE farmers and reinforce the country’s efforts to build a robust, self-reliant agricultural ecosystem. The retailer also continues to source products from organisations such as the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, as part of its commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth. 

Senior representatives from Lulu and partner organisations were also present, including Saifee Rupawala, CEO of Lulu; Salim VI, Chief Operating and Strategy Officer of Lulu; V. Nandakumar, Director of Marketing and Communications; Fahed Alblooshi, Chairman of Spaces Investment; Saeed Alzaabi, Chairman of Exponential Investments; and Dhafer Al Qasimi, CEO of Silal.