The Food Innovation Conference 2024 begins today under the theme ‘Reimagining Future Food Systems’. Running until 15 May, the event is organised by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) and the World Economic Forum (WEF), hosted at the Museum of the Future and Emirates Towers in Dubai.
Over 150 international experts, academics, local, regional and global private businesses and farmers will be participating in various discussion panels across the event, with focus ranging from driving tech support of resilient, inclusive and sustainable food systems to fostering global cooperation.
The event will also highlight the best international practices and studies in the food sector and the latest relevant technologies, including AI and Data for Food.
“The conference is testament to the close cooperation between MBRGI and the World Economic Forum, and their joint visions for utilizing the huge potential of AI and advanced food tech to meet the growing global food needs, and creating the frameworks necessary to institutionalize this approach while encouraging research centers and innovators to develop solutions that address this noble cause,” said His Excellency Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Secretary General of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI).
At the Food Innovation Hubs Global Initiative, national innovation modules will be showcased, as well as global frontiers and scalable technology innovations. This segment will also facilitate matchmaking between entrepreneurs, investors, and private and public sector leaders, it was shared.
Likewise, the role of technology in supporting resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems will be highlighted.
The conference is supported by the Food Innovation Hubs Global Initiative, launched by the World Economic Forum in collaboration with MBRGI, aimed at uniting partners from public and private sectors, international and regional organisations and civil society players.
This initiative aims to foster partnerships and collaboration in food system innovation, fund promising initiatives locally and regionally, and promote the sharing of food-related knowledge and data globally.
The event will feature keynote speeches by Her Excellency Dr. Amna Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Tania Strauss, Head of Food and Water, World Economic Forum and Asma Khan, Chef Advocate, World Food Programme.
On 13 and 14 May, the Food Innovation Conference 2024 is also organising an open exhibition showcasing the latest food system innovation through an interactive platform enabling visitors to learn about modern technologies shaping the future of food systems.
The Food Innovation Hubs Leadership Committee meeting will be held on the sidelines of the conference on 14 May, while on 15 May, participants will be able to visit multiple sites, including farms and production plants, to highlight practices adopted in the UAE to achieve food sustainability.