Page 521 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2025 Part 1

2/28/25, 2:44 PM H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy delivers keynote address at Gulfood
Food security, innovation and resilience in the global digital economy are critical issues. These
are not just priorities for the UAE but the entire world as we navigate rapidly in the evolving food
basket. The food sector is a cornerstone of the UAE’s economic growth and our diversification
efforts. We import 95% of our food and as the food sector is a lead contributor to our GDP, the
sector in its expansion has attracted global and regional investments in food production,
processing and technology.’

Dubai Chamber of Commerce Briefing
Members and industry contacts explored how international businesses can utilise avenues such
as Gulfood towards driving innovation and economic progress. The Chambers also touched upon
its strategic vision and tailored services and initiatives. Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of
International Relations Sector at Dubai Chambers opened the morning briefing, and shared
critical insights with exhibitors and key decision-makers in the room.

‘Between 2020 and 2024, Dubai’s F&B sector attracted USD 370 million in greenfield investments.
These investments further cement Dubai’s reputation as a prime destination for businesses and
investors in the food industry. The UAE remains to be the top-ranked country in the GCC on the
UN’s Global Food Security Index, highlighting our nation’s commitment to resilience and
innovation. The UAE is also the leading destination in the MENA region for venture capital
investments in restaurant tech with more than USD 932 million invested between 2020 and 2024.
In addition, 27% of all imported food was re-exported during the first three quarters of 2024,
reflecting the UAE’s vital role in global supply chains,’ said Salem Al Shamsi.
Massive F&B Product Trading Floor
Visitors continue to explore 24 enormous exhibition halls covering over 1.3 million square feet
while interacting with companies launching new products, ingredients, and flavours, showcasing
their culinary expertise and engaging in commercial trade deals.

Sharif Chacoff, ProChile’s Trade Commissioner for the GCC, emphasised the significance of this
event: ‘Gulfood is an important platform to diversify markets for Chilean exporters and we have
already seen results. Gulfood 2025 will facilitate efforts towards a new exportable offer, where
Faenacar (Chilean Meat Association) will participate for the first time, supporting our strategic
direction to expand the range of Chilean products available in the market”

Top Table: The Stars Ignite on Day 2
Dubai-based Michelin Star chefs Solemann Haddad, Moonrise and Mohamed Orfali, Orfali Bros
held masterclasses elevating traditional Arabic fare and putting Japanese seafood centre stage,
respectively. Chef Fredrik Berselius, Aska (New York) explored flavours of the wilderness and Chef
Vladimir Mukhin, Krasota and The White Rabbit (Moscow) delved into futuristic techniques

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