Dubai Municipality Hosts Second Session of Dubai Food Safety Forum on World Food Safety Day

In observance of World Food Safety Day, Dubai Municipality is hosting the second session of the Dubai Food Safety Forum today at the Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, the Palm, Jumeirah. The event, themed ‘Food Safety: Preparing for the Unexpected,’ aims to raise public awareness about the critical importance of food safety in protecting public health and ensuring the resilience of the global food supply chain.

His Excellency Dawoud Al Hajri, Director General of Dubai Municipality, highlighted the global challenges impacting vital sectors like food accessibility and safety. He emphasized the need for persistent international action to maintain a secure and healthy food sector and develop adequate plans for global crises. The UAE's proactive and strategic approach has reinforced its focus on global food security indicators and contributed to creating an integrated and sustainable food system.

Key Highlights:

• Strategic Vision: H.E. Al Hajri outlined Dubai Municipality's comprehensive plans to build a sustainable food and health system, enhancing the Emirate's readiness to handle potential challenges and maintain high food safety standards. This aligns with Dubai’s vision of becoming the world’s leading city for living, working, sustainability, and quality of life.

• International Collaboration: Dr. Kayan Akram Jaff, Adviser and Head of Mission of the Subregional Office of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for the GCC states and Yemen, stressed the importance of renewing commitments to food safety. He emphasized that collaboration between FAO and Dubai Municipality strengthens regional efforts to promote food safety.

• Forum Discussions: The forum includes significant participation from government and private entities, as well as international organizations like the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Dubai Future Foundation, and FAO. Discussions will focus on ensuring food safety amidst global challenges, implementing robust surveillance systems, and creating contingency plans for food safety.

• DM Food Elite: Dubai Municipality conducted an induction on ‘DM Food Elite,’ highlighting the program's importance and recognizing groups that have significantly contributed to Dubai's robust food safety system, particularly in innovation and sustainability.

Commitment to Food Safety: Dubai Municipality has been celebrating World Food Safety Day since its inception, involving food establishments, key government sectors, educational institutions, and international organizations, including FAO. This year’s event underscores the Municipality's commitment to a safe and healthy future for its communities.