Over 150 Global Experts Participate In Dubai's Food Innovation Conference 2024

Food Innovation Conference kicked off in Dubai on Monday gathering more than 150 global experts, academics, innovators, public and private business owners, and farmers, with an aim to create innovative solutions for food sustainability.

The three-day event has been organized by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) in partnership with the World Economic Forum, under the theme of "Reimagining Future Food Systems."

During the conference, the attendees will get an opportunity to exchange knowledge, learning, and capacity building alongside collaboration among researchers, entrepreneurs, and the public and private sectors to support inclusive and sustainable food systems.

Tania Strauss, Head of Food and Water, World Economic Forum, said this conference will support global goals related to food security, zero hunger, and combat climate, adding that the forum is proud to partner with MBRGI.

"Through six country-led hubs and a Food Innovators Network, the initiative is working to accelerate fit-for-purpose technology and innovations to secure a positive food future," she was quoted as saying by WAM.

"Our efforts are not just about addressing immediate challenges, but about forging enduring solutions that transcend borders. Working alongside the leadership of the UAE on this landmark occasion, we advance collective action across all sectors to harness the power of innovation for inclusive and people-centered solutions," she added.

Asma Khan, World Food Program's Chef Advocate, also spoke at the event, noting that everyone has a stake in keeping this planet's well-being in check. She said everyone should take "ownership of the food system and work in partnership with other stakeholders to make a difference."

This conference hits a new milestone between the MBRGI and WEF partnership. Both parties first collaborated in 2022 as they established the Food Innovation Hubs Global Initiative. Even last year, they set up the Food Innovation Hub UAE together.

The event was inaugurated in the presence of Minister of Environment and Climate Change Dr. Amna Al Dahak and Assistant Secretary General of MBRGI Saeed Al Eter alongside Strauss and Khan.

During the inauguration, the participants were introduced to organic and environment-friendly food products, focusing on food production, local ingredients, and low-waste food.

Talking about climate change, Sharif Al Olama, the Under-Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), last month inaugurated the Solar and Clean Energy Conference as part of the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi.