Minister outlines new drive to create ‘Silicon Valley’ of food production

The UAE will establish a “Silicon Valley” of food technology to meet the country’s growing needs, the Minister of State for Food Security says.

Mariam Al Mehairi said it was a huge challenge for the region and the world. Unstable global markets and inflation remain a threat to everyday food’s prices.

But emerging technology such as vertical farming and hydroponics are helping to address those concerns, reducing consumer and environmental costs.

Speaking on Dubai Eye 103.8, Ms Al Mehairi said the country was aware of the challenges ahead and was taking steps to protect food prices and encourage sustainability.

“We are living in an era of increased pressure on food production stemming from a host of interlocking challenges, including accelerating climate change, dwindling fresh water access and escalating energy demands,” she said.

“Providing adequate food for the world’s citizens is a global problem and one that is likely to become more pressing in the coming decades.”

Ensuring adequate food supply was the subject of workshops held last month by the Office for Future Food Security.

The sessions examined possible global scenarios for the year 2050 and how these might affect the provision of food for the region’s growing population.

With unstable global supply chains and climate disruption of agricultural production, food and water security have become strategic challenges.

Ms Al Mehairi said plans for a food equivalent of Silicon Valley in the UAE were under review.

“A UAE national plan is being worked on as part of the future food security file that includes advancing research and adopting technologies,” she said.

“We are trying to create the equivalent of Silicon Valley, but with food, by bringing together research institutes, universities, academia and the private sector.

The first vertical farms are expected to involve a public and private partnership with the Emirates Flight Catering group.

And a $40 million (Dh147m) joint venture with Crop One Holdings will build the world’s largest vertical farm in Dubai.

The UAE’s National Food Security Strategy, which will set sustainable, long-term policies for future food security, is scheduled for launch in September.

“Adapting our diet could help preserve food security in future,” Ms Al Mehairi said. “Developing a nutritional standard for all UAE citizens will help us understand the needs of how to lead a healthier lifestyle.”

A UAE national plan is being worked on that includes advancing research and adopting technologies MARIAM AL MEHAIRI Minister of State for Food Security