In a bid to combat food waste and support vulnerable communities, the UAE Food Bank has partnered with the National Food Loss and Waste Initiative “Ne’ma” to launch a large-scale food redistribution campaign. Now in its third consecutive year, the initiative aims to deliver one million meals made from surplus food to those in need across the UAE—while promoting environmental sustainability.

The effort reflects the nation’s wider commitment to social and environmental responsibility and aligns with the 2025 “Year of the Community” initiative.

The initiative will involve over 75 hotels in Dubai, which will contribute untouched surplus food for collection and distribution. It is being implemented in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

As part of a broader circular economy approach, the UAE Food Bank will also convert inedible food waste into oil and agricultural compost through a partnership with iCycle International Recycling’s “Reloop” app—further advancing its sustainability objectives.

“The cooperation between ‘Ne’ma’ and the UAE Food Bank is a key step towards unifying efforts to enhance resource sustainability and reduce food waste in society,” said Khuloud Hassan Al Nowais, Chief Sustainability Officer at Emirates Foundation and Secretary General of the “Ne’ma” Committee.

“Through this partnership, we are working together on developing innovative, technology-supported solutions for distributing food safely and efficiently, reflecting our deep commitment to social responsibility and environmental protection.”

Manal Bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team at the UAE Food Bank, stated, “This collaboration is part of a long-term strategic vision to address the issue of food waste in the UAE in a comprehensive and sustainable way. ” She highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the Food Bank’s mission to achieve leadership and sustainability in surplus food management, reflecting the values of generosity and giving.