News

UAE Food Bank extends global reach to 28.9 million beneficiaries in 2024, a 55% increase from 2023

• Organisation enhances its worldwide presence through 30 new strategic agreements and MoUs with government entities, humanitarian agencies, and food industry leaders
• Emergency dispatches under campaigns like ‘Compassion for Gaza’ and the ‘UAE With You, Lebanon’ reaffirm the UAE’s commitment to international humanitarian relief efforts
• Over 5,466 tonnes of food diverted from landfill, reducing environmental impact and boosting global sustainability goals
• Local and international food organisations committing donations go up to 1,214, registering a 52% increase in participation

The UAE Food Bank (EFB), one of the global initiatives promoted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has released its annual data for 2024, reporting that its food aid initiatives reached 28.9 million beneficiaries worldwide. This marks a 55% increase from 2023, exceeding its performance targets and strategic objectives by over 100%.

The UAE Food Bank significantly expanded its international programme in 2024, engaging approximately 5,000 volunteers and active participants to support surplus food management and distribution initiatives aimed at bringing more beneficiaries under its umbrella. The number of donors from local and international food organisations also grew to 1,214, reflecting a 52% increase in participation. Alongside its direct food assistance efforts, the Bank implemented 157 awareness programmes, which engaged 4,357 participants in activities designed to promote responsible food consumption, food waste reduction, and sustainability.

As part of its emergency humanitarian relief efforts, the UAE Food Bank delivered 166.7 tonnes of food to the Emirates Red Crescent Authority, with the bulk of the supplies being sent to Gaza during Ramadan under the ‘Compassion for Gaza’ campaign. In addition, 12.08 tonnes of food aid were sent to Lebanon under the ‘UAE With You, Lebanon’ campaign, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to international humanitarian relief efforts.

The Bank also made significant progress in its environmental sustainability goals, successfully diverting 5,466 tonnes of food from landfill. This initiative contributed to reducing environmental pollution and emissions associated with food waste, supporting the UAE’s target of reducing food waste by 30% by 2027. By ensuring surplus food is redistributed effectively, the UAE Food Bank continues to promote responsible food management practices that align with global sustainability objectives.

Aligned with leadership’s vision

Manal Obaid bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team of the UAE Food Bank, highlighted the importance of the Bank’s ongoing efforts in furthering humanitarian and charitable work, noting that its achievements reflect the philanthropic vision of the UAE’s leadership. She stated that the Bank operates under the directives and continuous guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Supreme Chairperson of the UAE Food Bank, ensuring that critical food aid reaches those in need worldwide. She emphasised that the organisation remains committed to managing surplus food and reducing food waste in a structured and sustainable manner, in line with its long-term humanitarian objectives.

The UAE Food Bank provided food aid in response to a variety of global humanitarian situations through 2024. Its relief consignments included redistributed surplus food, cooked meals donated by food establishments, and food parcels containing essential items. By the end of December 2024, the total volume of food distributed reached 16,923 tonnes, covering a range of items such as vegetables and fruits, dairy products, meat, grains, pasta, and grocery staples. These contributions helped ensure food security for communities both locally and internationally, reinforcing the Bank’s position as a leading food assistance organisation.

The Bank also continued to strengthen its global partnerships through 30 strategic agreements and memoranda of understanding with government entities, humanitarian organisations, and food industry leaders. These collaborations helped expand the Bank’s reach and impact, reinforcing its role as a key player in global food security initiatives.

Throughout the year, the UAE Food Bank played an active role in several high-profile industry and humanitarian events. It served as a platinum sponsor of the Second World Conference on Preserving Blessings and participated in major industry conferences, including the Dubai International Food Safety Conference, Gulfood Manufacturing, and the World Government Summit. The Bank also took part in several national and humanitarian initiatives, such as the Hatta Honey Festival, the Suqia Water Initiative, the Eid Al Adha Initiative, and the Billion Meals Endowment.

Promoting social responsibility

As part of its efforts to promote volunteerism and social responsibility, the UAE Food Bank participated in the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work in 2023, earning second place in the category of Best Entity Creating Volunteer Opportunities. This recognition highlights the Bank’s commitment to fostering a culture of humanitarian service and community engagement.

The UAE Food Bank continues to operate according to its 2023-2027 strategic plan, which focuses on expanding humanitarian initiatives, forming partnerships to manage surplus food, and supporting national and international food security strategies. The Bank is actively working with Al Naama, government agencies, and international food banks to enhance surplus food management and to provide direct food aid to those in need.

Since its establishment in 2017, the UAE Food Bank has distributed more than 96 million meals, conducted 524 events, workshops, and campaigns, and built a strong network of 262 strategic partners. In addition, it has signed five memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with regional food banks, further strengthening its role as a leader in humanitarian food aid and surplus food management.

With a clear vision for the future, the UAE Food Bank remains dedicated to expanding its reach, reducing food wastage, and ensuring that food is delivered efficiently to those who need it most, both in the UAE and across the world.