By Faridat Salifu
Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2026 will hold from April 22 to 26 at the ADNEC Centre, bringing together farmers, policymakers, researchers, and private sector stakeholders.
The event, being held under the patronage of HH, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, is expected to strengthen efforts around food security, agricultural innovation, and sustainable production in the Emirates.
UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, unveiled the programme at a press briefing in Dubai, describing it as a strategic platform linking local production with global innovation.
She said the initiative reflects the UAE’s long-term commitment to strengthening food systems amid climate pressures and global supply chain disruptions.
The 2026 edition will feature more than 50 speakers and over 40 panel discussions, with participation from around 200 Emirati farmers, 60 private sector companies, and 40 startups.
More than 20 government entities, three national universities, and about 2,000 school and university students are also expected to participate.
A key addition this year is a dedicated outdoor space for livestock breeders and aquaculture producers, including live auctions aimed at boosting sector visibility and market access.
Organisers said the four-day programme will focus on artificial intelligence in agriculture, food industries, women in farming, and university-led research and innovation.
The event is structured across farmers, education, community, and youth entrepreneurship tracks to connect different segments of the agriculture value chain.
The Farmers’ Market will return as a core feature, offering producers direct access to buyers and linking them with major national food companies to support value addition.
The National Agriculture Centre will also host a pavilion designed to facilitate partnerships and the signing of memoranda of understanding between stakeholders.
The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will serve as the international partner for the event, strengthening global collaboration on food security and sustainable agriculture.
Key sponsors include Silal as platinum sponsor, alongside Al Barakha Dates Factory, Elite Agro UAE, LuLu Hypermarket, Agthia Group, Emirates Council for Balanced Development, and Al Ain Farms.
Organisers said the expanded format reflects the UAE’s push to position agriculture as a strategic sector combining food security, innovation, and economic growth.
