Abu Dhabi Investment Office forms major partnership to boost global trade in fresh produce
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) has announced a new multi-agency partnership aimed at expanding the global trade of high-quality perishable goods from Al Ain and across Abu Dhabi.
The collaboration includes Abu Dhabi Airports Company, Abu Dhabi Customs, the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Silal, Pure Harvest Smart Farms, ESG Agro, and Elite Agro Holding. Together, they will strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position in international agri-trade and improve the competitiveness of local producers.
The partnership will connect all parts of Abu Dhabi’s agriculture and trade system from policy and logistics to production and innovation. The goal is to simplify trade processes, speed up exports, and ensure the fast and safe delivery of perishable goods to global markets. Abu Dhabi’s strong logistics network, modern infrastructure, and clear regulations will support reliable and cost-effective access to international destinations.
ADIO will lead efforts to open new trade routes. Abu Dhabi Airports, ADAFSA, and Abu Dhabi Customs will manage the secure and efficient movement of goods through the emirate’s world-class facilities. On the production side, Silal, Pure Harvest Smart Farms, ESG Agro, and Elite Agro will use advanced technology and regional expertise to produce high-quality, climate-resilient crops for export.
The initiative will also study ways to combine produce from both large and small local farms to make shipping more efficient and help local farmers reach more markets. Together, these partners are creating an integrated ecosystem that turns Abu Dhabi’s agricultural strength into a global trade advantage.
Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, said that the emirate is building a stronger, more competitive economy through strategic partnerships. “We are creating a fully connected system from regulation to logistics to production that helps local agricultural producers export smoothly and efficiently, opening doors to global markets,” he said.
Dr. Tariq Ahmed Al Ameri, Acting Director-General of ADAFSA, said the project supports Abu Dhabi’s vision to boost food security and grow the agricultural sector. “We are helping local producers with advanced systems for transport, storage, and export that meet international standards. Ensuring food safety and quality builds global confidence in Abu Dhabi’s exports,” he said.
Silal Group CEO, Dhafer Al Qasimi, said the partnership reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for sustainable agri-trade. “By combining our agricultural expertise and technology, we can export high-quality local products competitively and efficiently,” he said.
Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, added that simplifying trade procedures is essential to help local producers compete globally.
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, highlighted the airport’s central role in this effort. “By improving our cold-chain and cargo systems, we can move perishable goods faster and more efficiently to key markets worldwide,” she said.
With operations centered in Al Ain, where Abu Dhabi’s advanced logistics and air cargo systems are based, the project will test and enhance cold-chain technologies suitable for challenging climates. These solutions will help strengthen Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a reliable exporter of premium produce.
This initiative supports ADIO’s mission to promote sustainable growth and aligns with the goals of the AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance (AGWA) cluster an ADIO-led platform using advanced technology to improve food security and manage water resources in Abu Dhabi.
