Dubai: The UAE Circular Economy Council recently convened its first meeting of 2026, chaired by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. The meeting was hosted at Barakat Quality Plus Group, a company specializing in fresh foods and juices.

According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting was attended by council members representing government, private sector, and academic entities. Discussions centered around national policies and initiatives to accelerate the UAE’s transition to a circular economy model. Key topics included the development of governance frameworks and strengthening regulatory and operational structures to ensure efficient and effective policy implementation.

The council also explored promising investment opportunities within circular economy sectors, particularly focusing on innovation’s role in the food industry’s growth. Emphasis was placed on building national capacities and enhancing local talent readiness to support sustainable and efficient production models.

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri highlighted the food sector’s significance in strengthening the UAE’s food security system, particularly amid global supply chain challenges due to geopolitical and economic crises. He stressed the need for adopting circular economy policies to improve the sector’s efficiency, resilience, and adaptability to changes.

He further elaborated on ongoing efforts to expand public-private sector partnerships and enhance integration in developing sustainable circular policies. The initiatives aim to be embedded within the food security system, particularly through the Food Economic Cluster, which acts as a national umbrella for food-related activities and industries. Innovation in food production, storage, and distribution technologies was also encouraged to improve supply chain efficiency and support the UAE Circular Economy Agenda 2031.

During a field visit to Barakat Quality Plus Group, Al Marri reviewed production lines and technologies in use, as well as the group’s fresh food and juice products. He also discussed the group’s future expansion plans aimed at enhancing production capacity and supporting market growth.

Barakat Group, established in 1976, is a leading producer and supplier of fresh products, foods, and beverages, serving luxury hotels, caf©s, restaurants, premium retail outlets, and major catering companies in the UAE.