Dubai: The Beekeepers Foundation has announced that Dubai has been selected to host the 50th Apimondia International Apicultural Congress in 2027, marking a historic first for the Arab world.
According to Emirates News Agency, the milestone win was secured with the support of Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s official convention bureau and part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The UAE’s successful bid, submitted in 2023, was led by the Beekeepers Foundation with the backing of the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), reflecting the country’s leadership in sustainable agriculture, desert beekeeping innovation, and international collaboration.
Held every two years, Apimondia is the leading global gathering of the beekeeping community, attracting participants from more than 100 countries including scientists, beekeepers, policymakers, and industry leaders. The Dubai edition will coincide with Apimondia’s 50th edition, providing a rare opportunity to celebrate the federation’s legacy while charting the future of sustainable beekeeping.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, emphasized that hosting this prestigious event highlights Dubai’s ability to deliver impactful international congresses in partnership with stakeholders across the UAE. Bringing Apimondia to the region for the first time reinforces Dubai’s role as a global hub for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, while providing an inspiring platform to advance innovation in the field.
Zahira Nedjraoui, Chair of the Beekeepers Foundation and President of Apimondia Dubai 2027, stated that they are honored to welcome the global beekeeping community to Dubai for Apimondia’s 50th. She noted that their theme, ‘Beekeeping for the Future: Educate, Innovate, Sustain,’ is a call to action, as climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity demand timely solutions. Beekeeping in arid lands offers both tradition and innovation to address today’s urgent challenges.
Jeff Pettis, President of Apimondia, highlighted that since their beginnings in Belgium in the late 1800s, their mission has been to support beekeepers and the bees they manage. The Dubai congress expands their global community, showcasing a region with deep traditions and unique innovations in desert beekeeping. Together, they will celebrate their heritage and champion the future of apiculture through education, innovation, and sustainable practices.
Apimondia Dubai 2027 will feature a program of technical tours, cultural activities, youth and community engagement initiatives, and a vibrant exhibition, offering access to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets for honey and hive products.