ADAFSA used the Partners Forum 2026 to detail its agricultural transformation strategy, which was approved by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The authority presented the plan to partners from government, private sector and research organisations gathered in Abu Dhabi on October 7. According to ADAFSA, the strategy focuses on innovation, technology and sustainability to address water scarcity and enhance local production capacity. Dr Tarek Ahmed Al Amri, acting director general of ADAFSA, addressed the forum on the need to evolve the sector through data-driven approaches.
The strategy is built on five pillars and 13 programmes, ADAFSA said during the event. The first pillar centres on increasing production to strengthen the emirate’s ability to meet its own food needs. A second pillar targets greater value from fewer resources, including a reduction in water consumption per hectare from 24,700 cubic metres to 12,700 by 2040.
Dr Tarek Ahmed Al Amri said the food chain extends beyond the farm, with the plan seeking to move the UAE from 26th place to the global top five on the Global Food Security Index by 2040. The authority aims to increase the agricultural sector’s contribution to Abu Dhabi’s economy from AED 9.5 billion to AED 34.6 billion over the same period. Technology forms a dedicated pillar, according to ADAFSA, while resilience and supply security make up additional elements of the framework.
ADAFSA is accelerating adoption of advanced technologies, artificial intelligence and data analytics to support farmers, livestock breeders and producers. The authority reported that these tools will improve efficiency of natural resource use and raise the competitiveness of local produce. Dr Tarek Ahmed Al Amri stated that the approach will enable a shift toward a development model driven by innovation while enhancing sustainability across the food system.
The authority simultaneously launched a new corporate identity during related activities tied to the forum, with the updated branding reflecting the objectives of the transformation strategy. Dr Tarek Ahmed Al Amri said, “Our new corporate identity represents more than a visual change; it marks a new phase in ADAFSA’s journey, aligned with the objectives of the Agricultural Transformation Strategy, which is shaping the future of the agricultural and food sector in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.” The identity symbolises protection, resilience and ADAFSA’s expanded role in the food security ecosystem.
Partnerships remain a core component of the strategy, according to ADAFSA, with the forum serving to coordinate efforts among stakeholders. The authority continues to invest in research and programmes that support the full food value chain from production to consumption. ADAFSA data also tracks progress through platforms monitoring hundreds of indicators related to production, trade and strategic reserves.
