Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited the 12th edition of Gulfood Manufacturing, the region’s leading food and beverage manufacturing exhibition, being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 3 to 5 November.
During the visit, Sheikh Mohammed said food security and manufacturing are two key pillars of the UAE’s comprehensive development strategy, reaffirming the country’s commitment to developing advanced manufacturing capabilities and using technology and innovation to make food production more efficient, competitive and sustainable.
The exhibition is being held alongside three major industry events: GulfHost, ISM Middle East and Private Label Middle East. Together, the four exhibitions feature 2,500 exhibitors from 79 countries, bringing together leading food manufacturers, technology providers and food ingredient specialists from around the world.
Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the exhibition’s importance as a global platform that brings together expertise, investment and technology in Dubai to help shape the future of food manufacturing.
He said strengthening domestic food manufacturing, developing national industries and reinforcing supply chains are strategic priorities that enhance the UAE’s readiness for the future and its ability to respond to global challenges. He also reaffirmed the UAE’s ambition to play a leading role in advancing global food security.
During a tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, on the latest solutions and products showcased by UAE and international companies.
Held under the theme ‘Powering Food Security Through Manufacturing Innovation’, this year’s Gulfood Manufacturing showcases the latest developments in global food production, including food processing and ingredient development, packaging technologies, automation solutions and advanced manufacturing systems.