One of the crucial issues facing the region, and the world, is also one of the most basic: the need to feed a growing population. Maintaining secure sources of food and drinkable water is an enormous challenge in arid countries such as the UAE, where there is cause for concern and the need to plan, but not to panic. A recent report from the Arab Forum for Environment and Development (AFED), to be discussed at the International Water Summit in Abu Dhabi from January 19 to 22, sets the scene. It notes that, as of 2011, Arab countries were spending more than Dh205 billion annually on food imports. The report recommends more efficient management and investment in the water and agriculture sectors, and greater regional cooperation.
As AFED secretary-general Najib Saab points out, “a radical shift is necessary toward crops that are less water-intensive, even if this means changing dietary habits”.
But there are limits to what can be grown in the desert. The Gulf countries will, therefore, remain dependent on imported food. It is estimated that 85 per cent of food consumed in the UAE is imported, with 65 per cent of those imports originating from just 10 countries. More diversification of supply is needed to spread the risk of shortages.
The good news is that the UAE’s wealth has allowed it to take control of some of its import sources. UAE-based companies own and operate farms in Serbia, Egypt, Spain and Pakistan. There is also untapped potential in Africa, where it may be possible for the UAE to enter into partnerships to help build essential infrastructure – dams, irrigation systems and logistics networks – in return for preferred customer status. Diversification is key. There is no global food shortage – indeed more food is being produced than ever – but there are, and will always be, localised shortages due to natural disaster or economic failure in some regions. By growing what we can, co-operating within the region and having a broad range of foreign sources, the UAE will be well placed to feed itself now and in the future.
