In a major step toward combating food waste and promoting sustainability, the UAE has launched its first nationwide study to measure actual food loss and waste. Led by ne’ma – the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative – the ambitious 18-month project aims to build a data-driven foundation for halving food waste by 2030, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12.3.

The study will involve 3,000 participants from households, businesses, and government entities in all seven Emirates and track food waste throughout the supply chain. The findings, to be announced in early 2026, will inform national indices and guide targeted reduction strategies.

The effort brings together key partners, including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Tadweer Group, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority (DECCA), Aldar, and local statistical authorities.

“Tackling food loss and waste requires national collaboration, and alignment to create a unified approach and methodology for measuring actual food waste across the supply chain,” said Khuloud Hassan Al Nuwais, Chief Sustainability Officer of Emirates Foundation and ne’ma Committee Secretary General. “This will enable the UAE to track progress against reduction targets.”

She added, “The evidence-based solutions will empower households and businesses to adopt best practices… and drive the shift toward a more sustainable, circular economy.”

Dr. Essam Sharaf Al Hashmi of ADAFSA stated, “In collaboration with ne’ma, we are uniting households, the private sector, and government entities… to ensure a more sustainable and resilient future.” Manal Obaid Yaroof of Dubai Municipality also added,  “This effort aligns with the municipality’s work to reduce landfill use and build smarter, more sustainable cities.”

The study’s final report will also contribute to international efforts to develop sustainable food systems worldwide.