The UAE’s National Food Loss and Waste Initiative, ne’ma, has announced a major expansion of its Valuing Our Roots campaign for Ramadan 2026, marking its largest nationwide rollout to date.
The initiative will operate simultaneously across five emirates, significantly scaling food recovery efforts to support thousands of families while advancing national sustainability goals.
This year’s programme will run across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, aiming to rescue more than 300,000 tonnes of food throughout the supply chain. The target represents a 50 percent increase in recovered surplus compared to last year, reinforcing the UAE’s push to reduce food loss and improve redistribution systems.
Central to the campaign are the Family Iftar Boxes, which redistribute surplus fresh produce and non-perishable items sourced from partners including Majid Al Futtaim Group, Silal, and Agthia Group. More than 10,000 low-income families are expected to benefit during the holy month.
In alignment with the UAE’s Year of Family, packing centres will also serve as community hubs, bringing together families, corporate volunteers, and staff from Emirates Foundation to participate in food packing and distribution activities. Over 54 scheduled events will mobilise thousands of volunteers at seven central locations, including Expo City Dubai and Al Moatasem School in Abu Dhabi.
The campaign is supported by a coalition of partners such as the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority and the Khalifa Foundation, alongside more than 20 food retailers and distributors. Volunteers will be coordinated in part through Takatof.
Through the expanded initiative, ne’ma aims to strengthen long-term food redistribution systems, raise public awareness, and contribute to the UAE Food Security Strategy 2051 while supporting the national commitment to halve food loss and waste by 2030.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
