Abu Dhabi hosts 2nd edition of Global Food Week

ABU DHABI - Abu Dhabi hosted the second edition of the Global Food Week, a landmark event that has transformed the Gulf emirate into a global hub for culinary innovation, sustainable food practices, and gastronomic excellence.

From October 21 to 23 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the Emirati capital welcomed an array of international chefs, industry leaders, policymakers, and food enthusiasts for a week-long celebration that promises to tantalize taste buds and inspire a future-forward approach to food.

A Feast for the Senses and the Mind

Global Food Week is more than just a culinary festival; it's a comprehensive platform designed to address critical issues facing the global food system.

The event has attracted participants from 75 countries, including 18 new countries joining for the first time, reflecting its expanding global reach. Emirati participation was notably strong, with 1,055 national companies and brands, representing 51% of all participants, underscoring the growing role of the national sector in driving food innovation.

The event featured a diverse program, including:

The Global Food Summit: A high-level conference bringing together experts to discuss food security, sustainable agriculture, technological advancements in food production, and policy frameworks for a resilient food future.

International Chef Showcase: Renowned chefs from around the world presented live cooking demonstrations, workshops, and exclusive tasting menus, offering attendees a unique opportunity to experience diverse culinary traditions and cutting-edge techniques.

Future Food Expo: An exhibition dedicated to showcasing innovative food products, agricultural technologies, sustainable packaging solutions, and advancements in alternative proteins and vertical farming.

Abu Dhabi Culinary Tours: Curated experiences that allowed visitors to explore the rich culinary landscape of Abu Dhabi, from traditional Emirati dishes to modern international cuisine.

Sustainability Workshops: Interactive sessions focusing on reducing food waste, promoting ethical sourcing, and encouraging plant-based diets.

Young Chefs Competition: A platform for emerging culinary talent to showcase their skills and creativity.

Abu Dhabi: A Growing Gastronomic Destination

The choice of Abu Dhabi as the host city underscores its growing prominence as a global gastronomic destination and its commitment to fostering innovation across various sectors.

The emirate has been actively investing in sustainable initiatives and technological advancements, making it an ideal location to convene discussions on the future of food.

Highlighting Local Flavors and Global Trends

While embracing global trends, Global Food Week shone a spotlight on the rich culinary heritage of the UAE.

Visitors attended engaging discussions on topics such as the role of AI in food production, the rise of personalized nutrition, the challenges of climate change on agriculture, and the importance of preserving culinary diversity.