RAJEEV CHERIAN (ABU DHABI)

With its advanced logistics infrastructure, diverse transport channels and cutting-edge food storage and handling facilities, the UAE is well positioned to withstand supply chain disruptions and ensure the availability of essential goods.

Over the past weeks, during his recent field visits, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Consumer Protection, has emphasised that the UAE does not rely solely on local stockpiles, but benefits from an extensive global trade network, enabling access to multiple alternative food sources in case of supply disruptions.

With a focus on resilience and sustainability, the UAE has charted a path to becoming a global hub for food security. In 2018, the country launched the National Food Security Strategy 2051, aiming to build a comprehensive system centred on sustainable food production.

A document issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, titled "A Guide to Food Security in the UAE", offers an in-depth look at the strategy.

The strategy envisions transforming the UAE into an innovation-driven food security hub and raising the country's standing on the Global Food Security Index (GFSI) to No. 1 by 2051.

The mission is expected to create around 16,000 new jobs, and generate an economic impact of about Dh22 billion.

Incorporating a series of short- and long-term initiatives, the strategy seeks to ensure all citizens and residents have access to safe, adequate, and nutritious food at affordable prices at all times.

A key highlight of the strategy is building a strong foundation that enables the nation to withstand crises and emergencies. The strategy outlines key components of the UAE's national food basket, identifying 24 essential food categories based on domestic consumption patterns, production capacity, and processing and nutritional requirements.

It includes 38 short- and long-term initiatives and is built around primary goals focusing on strengthening the UAE's role in global food trade, diversifying import sources, and securing alternative supply channels by ensuring three to five sourcing options for each major food category.

At its core, the strategy aims to build a comprehensive national system that supports sustainable food production through the use of advanced technologies.

It also seeks to boost local production, expand international partnerships to diversify food sources, and introduce policies that improve nutrition while reducing food waste.

Legislation and Policies 
The Federal Law No. 3 of 2020 on the regulation of the strategic stock of food commodities aims to organise food supplies during crises, emergencies, and disasters, and boost food sustainability in the UAE.

The law applies to suppliers and registered traders. It also enables the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to prepare reports as well as studies and statistics, and carry out economic assessments of food commodities.

Global Food Security Index
The UAE's strategic geographical location, along with a robust food trade network, ensures a steady flow of food supply from around the world. The country has established robust trade relationships with numerous countries, becoming a major food hub with annual figures exceeding Dh100 billion.

On the Global Food Security Index (GFSI) 2022, issued by Economist Impact, the UAE ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Multiple Sectors United 
To align national efforts across federal and local authorities, as well as public, private and civil society sectors, the Emirates Food Security Council was formed in 2019.

Chaired by the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, it serves as the primary reference for all UAE food affairs and the implementation of the strategy. Through coordinated efforts, the council is building a new frontier in national food security.

A group of national companies within the food and agricultural sectors, the Food Security Alliance works through strategic partnerships and investments to ensure a stable and continuous supply of essential commodities under all circumstances, including emergencies and crises. 

Boosting Resilience 

The UAE is using advanced technologies and innovative cultivation methods - such as vertical farming, hydroponics, organic farming and controlled-environment agriculture - to boost local agricultural production. This approach also aims to improve the quality and variety of homegrown produce. The agricultural sector is further supported by advanced robotics and data-driven practices.

The country also maintains strategic food security reserves to serve as a buffer against emergencies, global market fluctuations, and geopolitical factors. These reserves include essential food commodities and staples such as rice, wheat, sugar, pulses, edible oils, and other essential commodities.

Specialised entities manage these stockpiles, ensuring proper storage conditions and maintaining food safety and quality.