The UAE has launched a new national initiative aimed at significantly increasing the use of locally produced food across hotels and restaurants, marking a strategic shift in how the country approaches food security and agricultural sustainability.
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment and Chairman of the National Agriculture Centre, announced the Sustainable Product initiative during the signing of six strategic memoranda of understanding with leading hospitality and industry partners. The initiative targets raising the share of locally sourced agricultural and animal products in the hospitality sector to 25 percent.
The agreements were signed at an event held at Emirates Towers in Dubai and form the first executive framework of the initiative. They establish a commercially viable pathway for integrating produce from UAE farms into the supply chains of major hotels and restaurants. Signatory entities include Abu Dhabi National Hotels Company PJSC, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, Barakat Vegetables and Fruits Co. LLC, and SAFCO International General Trading LLC.
Dr. Al Dahak said the initiative reflects a broader evolution of the UAE’s agricultural sector from traditional production to a technology-driven, market-oriented ecosystem. By strengthening consumption and creating stable demand, the programme is designed to enhance farmer confidence, encourage investment, and support long-term economic sustainability.
She added that linking farm output directly with the needs of the tourism and hospitality sector will help ensure continuity of production while meeting international quality standards. The move also supports national objectives to reduce reliance on food imports under the National Food Security Strategy 2051.
Officials from the National Agriculture Centre said the initiative represents a new phase of public-private collaboration, creating reliable marketing channels for Emirati farmers and reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global hub for agricultural innovation.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
