Dubai: Dubai Municipality hosted the third edition of the Dubai Food Safety Forum in conjunction with World Food Safety Day, observed under the theme 'Food Safety: Prepare for the Unexpected.' The event gathered representatives from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), and key players from public and private sector organisations as well as academic institutions.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Forum explored strategic themes centered on the role of science in food safety policymaking and risk management. Discussions addressed how science-based surveillance systems can improve food supply chain resilience, enabling consumers to make informed and sustainable choices. The event reflects Dubai Municipality's ongoing efforts to promote a safe, integrated food system that contributes to public health and long-term food security.
Eng. Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, emphasized the importance of knowledge in food safety, noting that understanding challenges leads to excellence-driven solutions. He highlighted the Forum as a vital scientific platform to anticipate the future of food and build a smart, safe food system that supports community health, enhances quality of life, and ensures resource sustainability.
Mohamed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, remarked on the complexity and challenges of global food supply chains, recognizing the Forum as a platform for exchanging scientific knowledge, best practices, and regulatory insights. He underscored the UAE's science-based approach to safeguarding public health and building robust food systems.
Al Nuaimi further stated the UAE's commitment to food safety as a national priority, aligned with the National Food Security Strategy 2051. He detailed efforts to advance an integrated food safety system, including digital transformation, risk assessment capabilities, and national initiatives like the 'ZAD' unified food trade portal and the Biosecurity Early Notification System.
Dr Ahmed Mokhtar from FAO highlighted the economic impact of foodborne illnesses and affirmed that science is crucial for sound decision-making in food safety. He noted the role of science in guiding risk assessment and shaping policies and standards that protect public health and build trust in food systems.
During the Forum, Dubai Municipality announced registration for the 19th edition of the Dubai International Food Safety Conference, scheduled for 17 to 19 November 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Organised in collaboration with FAO, IAFP, and NEHA, the event is the largest food safety platform in the region, expecting over 3,000 participants globally, including international experts, researchers, academic institutions, regulatory authorities, and private sector leaders.