A major farmers’ market connecting Emirati producers directly with consumers and industry will be a central feature of the UAE’s flagship agriculture event this month, as authorities step up efforts to strengthen local food systems.
The expanded Farmers’ Market, part of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2026 to be held in Al Ain from April 22 to 26, is designed to translate agricultural strategy into real economic value linking local products directly to markets.
Officials say the initiative reflects a broader push to boost local production and place farmers at the centre of the national food system, amid growing climate and geopolitical pressures on global supply chains.
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‘Food is a pillar of national security’
The UAE has announced an expanded second edition of its flagship agricultural exhibition and conference, aimed at accelerating innovation, empowering farmers, and strengthening food security.
Speaking at a press conference, Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE’s Minister of Climate Change, described the event as “a national platform that brings together all elements of the agricultural ecosystem under one umbrella”.
She stressed that global shifts from climate change to supply chain disruptions have transformed how nations view food systems.
“Food is no longer just a commodity that is produced and consumed. It has become a strategic pillar and a critical tool in achieving national security,” she said.
Farmers at the centre
Placing farmers at the centre of the initiative, Al Dahak said the Emirati farmer remains the “backbone” of the country’s agricultural strategy.
“Our role is to support farmers and producers across the UAE, enabling them to adopt modern technologies and play a more effective role in the national food system,” she said.
The Farmers’ Market will serve as a key feature of this approach, creating direct links between producers, consumers, and industry players, while helping unlock new economic opportunities for local agriculture.
The event will also feature dedicated spaces for Emirati farmers, including female farmers, beekeepers, and those involved in dates production, alongside broader efforts to integrate them into the national food value chain.
Driving innovation and technology
The exhibition aligns with the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, with a strong focus on expanding the use of technology across the sector.
“Artificial intelligence and data will become the new language of agriculture,” Al Dahak said, noting that the goal is to ensure all farmers benefit from advanced tools and practices.
More than 50 experts are expected to participate in over 40 sessions, alongside the involvement of government entities, private companies, startups, and academic institutions.
Four integrated tracks
The event will feature four main tracks — farmers, community, education, and entrepreneurship — each designed to deliver tangible outcomes across the agricultural ecosystem.
Officials said the platform goes beyond a traditional exhibition, aiming to serve farmers, investors, researchers, and the wider community through an integrated national system.
Youth and startups
Highlighting the role of youth, Al Dahak said innovation must be driven locally, with students and startups playing a key role in shaping the sector’s future.
“The solutions to our agricultural challenges cannot be imported alone, they must be built by our youth and entrepreneurs,” she said.
Students will take part in agricultural innovation hackathons, while startups will showcase new solutions aimed at improving productivity and sustainability.
Boosting local production
Officials also revealed plans to increase the share of locally marketed agricultural products from the current 10 to 15 per cent to 25 per cent in the coming years.
The event — spanning more than 37,000 square metres — will bring together government entities, private sector players, research institutions, and international partners as the UAE continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable food systems.
Source: Khaleej Times