Abu Dhabi:The second day of Global Food Week 2026 concluded with a strong emphasis on food security, agricultural innovation, and international collaboration. The event featured a diverse program of business networking, knowledge exchange, and visitor experiences, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Global Food Security Summit, part of Global Food Week 2026, brought together international organizations, financial institutions, investors, industry leaders, researchers, and innovators to address challenges in global food systems. Discussions focused on innovation, technology, and future systems, exploring the roles of AI, digital infrastructure, resilient supply chains, sustainable water management, and strategic partnerships in shaping future food security.
The FAO Policy Majlis began its program with a session titled "Agrifood Systems under Pressure: Evidence and Opportunities," moderated by Ahmad Mukhtar, FAO Representative in the United Arab Emirates. The discussion addressed regional food system pressures such as climate change, supply-chain disruptions, and economic uncertainty. Emphasis was placed on the need for resilience, improved data and analytics, de-risked investment, and greater educational investment for youth leadership.
Global Food Week also featured discussions at the Farmers Majlis, focusing on dialogue and collaboration with the UAE farming community. The AgriTech Forum showcased pioneering technologies and sustainable farming practices, underscoring Global Food Week’s commitment to supporting local agriculture and strengthening the resilience and sustainability of the nation's food systems.
The event’s Hosted Buyers Programme attracted regional and international buyers, facilitating business matchmaking through curated meetings. This initiative aimed to drive commercial discussions, strengthen partnerships, and create new opportunities for trade and investment.
A new addition this year, the Beverage Zone offered interactive masterclasses by expert baristas and coffee specialists, where visitors experienced live demonstrations and tasted diverse beverages, including Ethiopian coffee and traditional karak. The World Gourmet Show featured chefs showcasing culinary demonstrations with dishes like Chicken Cacciatore and porcini risotto, allowing visitors to engage with chefs and sample their creations.
Global Food Week 2026 will continue on 8 October at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, further solidifying Abu Dhabi's role as a leading platform for advancing food security, agricultural innovation, and international collaboration in the global food sector.