Sheikh Mohammed along with Sheikh Hamdan takes a tour of Gulfood 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Monday.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, toured the 29th edition of Gulfood, the world’s largest annual global food and beverage (F&B) sourcing event, which commenced at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) on Monday.

Sheikh Mohammed said that Gulfood 2024 highlights the UAE's growing role in facilitating knowledge exchange and fostering partnerships to advance excellence in vital global sectors.

"This role is firmly rooted in the nation's commitment to encouraging the adoption of innovative solutions aimed at enhancing sustainable economic growth and human wellbeing," he said.

heikh Mohammed noted that organising events like Gulfood forms part of the UAE’s efforts to foster new solutions for raising the efficiency of global supply chains.

The event also serves as a major platform for accelerating global collaboration in the food sector, reflecting the UAE's keenness to nurture partnerships between public and private sectors and key stakeholders.

He stated that Dubai is well positioned to play a key role in enhancing global food security due to its position as a hub for technology and innovation, its status as a pivotal node in global trade, and its high quality infrastructure and connectivity.

Sheikh Mohammed also said that the organisation of Gulfood 2024 is aligned with the aims of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to double Dubai’s GDP and establish it as one of the world's top three urban economies. By promoting excellence and sustainable practices, the UAE seeks to make meaningful contributions to worldwide efforts to create a more resilient future for the global economy and international trade.

Sheikh Mohammed  was accompanied by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai; and Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed toured the event, which is being held from 19-23 February and has drawn 5,500 exhibitors and visitors from 190 countries.

During the tour, he was briefed about a diverse array of products, services, and technological advancements in the F&B industry.

These innovations primarily aim to minimise costs, improve efficiency, decrease food waste, and strengthen supply chains. HH Sheikh Mohammed was also briefed about the Gulfood Inspire Conference, being held as part of the event.

Also accompanying Sheikh Mohammed during the visit were Dr Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Helal Al Marri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA); and a number of senior officials.