Agricultural Sustainability and Food Safety Forum

UAE University organizes the Agricultural Sustainability and Food Safety Forum

The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) organized the "Agricultural Sustainability and Food Safety" forum as part of its participation in the UAE Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2026.

The forum brought together a distinguished group of officials, experts, academics, and researchers to foster scientific dialogue on the future of sustainable agriculture and develop innovative solutions that support food security in the UAE and the region.

In his opening remarks, His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to His Highness the President of the UAE and Chancellor of UAEU, emphasized that this scientific and national forum is being held at a crucial time, reflecting the commitment of the UAE and its wise leadership to supporting agricultural sustainability and food safety.

He stated, "The late Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God have mercy on him, gave agriculture a special place in building the nation, believing it to be the foundation of stability and growth, and a cornerstone for preserving the land and human dignity.

Today, as we continue this blessed approach, we affirm that agriculture remains the heart of development and the spirit of sustainability in its modern sense, and represents one of the enduring characteristics of the Al Ain region and the UAE." He highlighted the pioneering role of the United Arab Emirates University since its establishment as a national institution that elevates science and knowledge and anticipates future horizons.

This role is embodied in the journey of the College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, which has laid the foundations for excellence in education and scientific research in the fields of modern agriculture and its technologies, animal health, and food safety.

Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said: “Hosting this forum during the UAE Agricultural Conference and Exhibition in Al Ain holds special significance, stemming from the inspiring vision of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who made agriculture a fundamental pillar of the national development journey.

Today, the UAE continues this approach with a more comprehensive vision that places food security at the heart of its priorities and affirms that building a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector is a shared responsibility that requires integrated policies, knowledge, innovation, and investment in human capital.”

Her Excellency added that, from this perspective, we believe that agricultural scientific research is one of the most influential paths in shaping the future of food. This is confirmed by global studies indicating a high average annual economic return on investment in agricultural research and development, making it one of the highest-yielding sectors.

Therefore, empowering youth, strengthening the role of universities, and linking education to national needs have become strategic paths for building a more efficient and sustainable food system, capable of transforming challenges into opportunities and establishing an agricultural future that serves future generations.

She commended the efforts of the United Arab Emirates University in establishing an inspiring scientific model for developing modern agricultural practices through scientific and academic research.

At its conclusion, the forum honored the winners of the scientific poster competition and delivered closing remarks emphasizing the importance of continued partnership between the university and relevant national entities to promote agricultural scientific research and support food security in the country.

The organization of this forum comes as part of the United Arab Emirates University's commitment to its national role as a leading academic and research institution, contributing to the development of sustainable solutions to agricultural and environmental challenges, and supporting the nation's vision for building a more sustainable and innovative future.