The Emirates Council for Food Security recently convened to discuss the role of stakeholders in promoting the ‘Plant the Emirates’ National Programme, as well as updates to the National Food Security Strategy 2051. The meeting, held at Silal’s Automated Packhouse in Al Ain, also covered global agriculture trends, food trade, and ways to enhance the UAE’s food supply.
Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, chaired the meeting, praising Silal’s contributions to the local food sector. She highlighted the importance of the ‘Plant the Emirates’ initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in advancing the UAE’s food security goals. “This programme marks a major step in supporting national farms and agricultural investments,” said Dr. Al Dahak.
The meeting also addressed ways to increase agricultural production through partnerships with the private sector and the community, including home farming skills training. Discussions centered on the National Agricultural Centre’s role in providing support for climate-smart agriculture, as well as its advisory services to national farmers.
Further, the Council reviewed the National Food Security Strategy 2051, which aims to make the UAE the global leader in food security by that year. Key objectives include promoting fresh local produce, improving food safety, and reducing waste. The group also explored the latest global food trade trends to strengthen the UAE’s food supply chains.
The meeting included a tour of Silal’s facility, one of the region’s largest packhouses, which has a daily capacity to produce over 180,000 packages. Spanning 12,000 square meters, the facility is equipped with advanced cooling and storage units to maintain high-quality standards. Silal’s commitment to supporting local farms is evident in its collaboration with over 900 farms and its focus on agricultural innovation and clean energy solutions.