Food and Agriculture

The food and agriculture sector in the UAE and the Gulf region is developing rapidly, driven by innovation, rising demand for food, and increased investment in sustainable farming. Markets in Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq are also offering growing opportunities for German companies to contribute with high-quality food products, modern agricultural technology, and sustainable solutions.

Our Competence Center for Food and Agriculture

On October 1, 2021, the German Federal Minister of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity (BMLEH) commissioned the German-Emirati Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK) to establish a "Competence Center for Food and Agriculture" covering the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq. The Competence Center aims to strengthen economic cooperation in the field of food and agricultural products between Germany and the five Gulf countries mentioned. (To continue in Arabic, please click here)

The services of the Competence Center are supported by the BMLEH and can be offered to German companies at a reduced rate through De-minimis funding.

We serve as an information, networking, and advisory platform, as well as a central point of contact for businesses in sectors such as agricultural machinery, beverages, confectionery, fruits & vegetables, grains, meat, fish, delicatessen, organic products, convenience food, dairy, and baked goods.

How can we support you? Get in touch with us.

Contact

Focus Regions at a Glance

Our Competence Center for the Food and Agriculture Sector was commissioned by the German Federal Minister of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity (BMLEH) to cover the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq. Our goal is to support German companies in the region and to promote exchange within the food and agriculture industry. Below, you will find more information about each location.

Food & Agriculture in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most important economic hubs in the Arab world and a key trading partner for Germany in the MENA region. Political stability, well-developed infrastructure, and economic diversity make the UAE an attractive location for internationally active companies. Thanks to its strategic geographic location, the country serves as a central gateway for trade between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Iraq

Food consumption in Iraq is increasing due to population growth. In 2023, the population reached approximately 44 million, with an annual growth rate of around 2.3%. There is also strong demand for food in the Kurdistan Region, which has around 6.5 million inhabitants. The growing middle class and rising purchasing power are driving higher spending on food and beverages.

Qatar

Qatar’s Agriculture and Food Sector: New Opportunities for German Companies Qatar is increasingly diversifying its economy, and the agriculture and food sector is becoming an important driver of growth. With a growing population and rising urbanization, demand for locally produced food is increasing, boosting agricultural production and food processing.

Kuwait

Food Security and a Thriving F&B Sector in Focus Kuwait places strategic importance on food security and is actively implementing long-term measures to ensure a stable supply, including addressing challenges such as freshwater availability, arable land, and harsh climatic conditions. The country is pursuing a forward-looking strategy focused on innovation and local value creation.

Oman

Oman offers exciting business opportunities in the agriculture and food sector. Through targeted investments in sustainable farming, modern food production, and innovative technologies, the country is creating attractive prospects for German companies. Particularly promising are the expansion of agricultural projects, the use of renewable energy in farming, and the growing demand for high-quality food products. German companies with expertise in these areas can benefit from new partnerships and long-term cooperation opportunities.

Trade Fairs Agri & Food

2025

Gulfood, VAE, Dubai, 17 - 21 Februar 2025
One of the world's largest annual food and beverage trade shows, attracting professionals and exhibitors globally

ISM Middle East 2025, VAE, Dubai, 15 - 17 September 2025
The leading trade fair for the confectionery and snack industry in the MENA region, showcasing the latest products and innovations.

AgraME, VAE, Dubai, 6 - 7 Oktober 2025
A premier event focusing on agriculture, aquaculture, and animal health in the Middle East, promoting sustainable farming practices.

AgroFarm, VAE, Dubai, 6 - 7 Oktober 2025
Concurrent with AgraME, this exhibition concentrates on animal husbandry and livestock management in the region.

Gulfood Manufacturing, VAE, Dubai, 5 - 7 November 2025
The largest event in the MEASA region for the food and beverage processing industry, highlighting the latest innovations in manufacturing.

The Speciality Food Festival, VAE, Dubai, 5 - 7 November 2025
A dedicated platform for gourmet and specialty foods, bringing together international brands and regional buyers.

GulfHost, Dubai, VAE, 5 - 7 November 2025
A hospitality equipment and food service expo, showcasing the latest products and solutions for the hospitality sector.

ADIFE, Abu Dhabi, VAE, 26 - 28 November 2025
A significant event for the food industry, focusing on food security, safety, and quality in the region.

Archive (only available in German)

Die Berichte des Bundesministerium für Landwirtschaft, Ernährung und Heimat (BMLEH) sowie der Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI)...

Get in touch:

Daisy Schmidt

Director - Kompetenzzentrum für die Ernährungs- und Agrarwirtschaft
+971 (0)2 6455200 agriandfood@ahkuae.com
Noelia Weber

Deputy Director - Kompetenzzentrum für die Ernährungs- und Agrarwirtschaft
+971 (0)4 4470100 agriandfood@ahkuae.com