AGWA Secures Major Infrastructure Partnerships to Drive Investment and Innovation

UAE, 12 June, 2024 : Four major Abu Dhabi infrastructure partners have signed an agreement to support AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance (AGWA), the UAE capital’s new food and water cluster. Abu Dhabi Ports Company PJSC, Abu Dhabi Airports Company PJSC, Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), and Masdar City will collaborate with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to create an enabling environment for AGWA cluster companies.

AGWA, led by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and ADIO, aims to become a global hub for novel food ingredients and water resource technologies. The cluster will support local suppliers and exporters, maximize commercial opportunities, and address global food and water security challenges.

The collaboration will leverage the partners' expertise in logistics, energy supply, sustainability, and business facilitation to provide essential infrastructure for AGWA companies. This initiative will enhance traditional food and water production and supply, while also fostering innovations in alternative proteins, algae, and reverse osmosis technologies.

Badr Al-Olama, Director General of ADIO, emphasized the importance of this partnership in establishing Abu Dhabi as a leader in the food and water industry. Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of AD Ports Group, highlighted the role of the AGWA Cluster in transforming the global food supply chain through technology and partnerships.

Elena Sorlini, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, noted that the cluster will boost regional and international trade, enhancing Abu Dhabi's global connectivity. Ahmed Baghoum, CEO of Masdar City, expressed commitment to supporting AGWA companies in advancing sustainability and economic growth.

Saeed Al Suwaidi, CEO of ADDC, emphasized AGWA's role in addressing global challenges and fostering economic diversification and job creation. AGWA is expected to contribute AED 90 billion to Abu Dhabi's GDP by 2045, creating 62,000 new jobs and attracting AED 128 billion in investments. 

AGWA builds on Abu Dhabi’s leadership in advanced food and water production and its strong traditional farming base, with over 24,000 farms, half of which are in the Al Ain region.

Source : www.wam.ae