In an important step towards addressing the critical issue of food loss and waste in the UAE, the National Initiative for Reducing Food Waste and Loss, known as “نعمة,” has commenced data collection for a baseline study. This effort, which began in collaboration with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and local statistical centers across the Emirates, aims to accurately gauge the levels of food waste in the region. The initiative focuses on developing reliable and actionable data to help mitigate food loss in the UAE.
Data Collection Phase Begins
The data collection phase of the initiative is underway from September 8 to 21. Field teams are tasked with gathering preliminary data by measuring waste at the household level through the collection, weighing, and analysis of food waste. Moreover, registered businesses and government entities will input their data on food loss directly via the “نعمة” data platform. This groundbreaking national effort marks the first time that direct analysis of waste components is conducted at the source, engaging multiple sectors throughout the entire food supply chain.
Collaboration for Credibility
The success of this data collection initiative is anticipated due to extensive coordination among the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority and local statistical centers, which play a crucial role in ensuring the statistical credibility of the study. This collaboration focuses on several key areas, including sample size verification across the country using precise scientific and statistical methodologies, adherence to the UAE’s national survey protocols, and unifying local data within a centralized federal database. This comprehensive approach will serve as a foundation for national indicators related to food loss and waste in the UAE.
Understanding the Food Waste Challenge
The baseline study aims to identify the quantitative aspects and causes of food waste and loss from farms to households. It encompasses every stage of the food value chain—from production and importation to processing, distribution, retail, and consumption. The data collected will not only aid in developing official indicators on food loss and waste but also help identify geographical and demographic patterns of waste. Furthermore, it will support evidence-based solutions, awareness campaigns, and interventions, with the intention of releasing periodic national reports and repeating the study every three years.
A Comprehensive National Effort
Hanane Mansour Ahli, Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, highlighted that this joint effort reflects the UAE’s commitment to transforming perceptions surrounding food waste and loss into structured, effective action. The authority plays a pivotal role in ensuring the highest levels of precision and statistical reliability, allowing for national results that can be compared globally. The baseline national study on food loss and waste in the UAE is the outcome of coordinated efforts involving over 25 federal and local entities.
Aliyah Abdul Rahim Al Harmoudi, Assistant Undersecretary for Sustainable Communities at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, emphasized that the baseline study for measuring food loss and waste in the UAE is a cornerstone in supporting the National Food Security Strategy 2051. As the national authority responsible for the twelfth goal of the Sustainable Development Goals, the Ministry is committed to raising awareness and promoting education concerning sustainable consumption and production patterns. In this context, the “نعمة” initiative plays a vital role as the national effort aimed at reducing food waste.
The final results of the study are expected to be announced in the first half of 2026, serving as a springboard for new policies, partnerships, and community engagement strategies, all supporting the UAE’s goal of reducing food loss and waste by 50% by 2030. These efforts align with “نعمة’s” vision of making the UAE a country where no food is wasted.