The UAE has taken a major step in its fight against food waste with the launch of its first nationwide study to track how and where food is lost or discarded throughout the country.
Led by the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative (ne’ma), the 18-month study will involve 3,000 participants from households, businesses and government institutions across all seven emirates. The goal is to collect in-depth insights into how and why food waste occurs at every stage of the food supply chain, from production and distribution to consumer use.
This comprehensive study supports the UAE’s broader target of halving food loss and waste by 2030, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The study is being conducted through a multi-agency collaboration, bringing together the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, Tadweer Group, Dubai Municipality and several other public and private stakeholders. A major household survey is scheduled for September, which will contribute to setting national benchmarks and help shape long-term policy.
Once completed, the findings will be made public in 2026, with results shared internationally to support broader global efforts to reduce food waste and improve food system sustainability.