A large proportion of the global population still lacks reliable access to adequate and nutritious food. Even in a wealthy place like the UAE, getting enough food is still a big deal. They import most of their food, and there’s a big push for food systems that can last. The UAE has a plan to fix this by 2051, and businesses will have to play a big part to help people get access to food. 

Businesses in the UAE are uniquely positioned to make a meaningful impact on social issues. They can use what they’ve got— such as available resources, fresh ideas, and team-ups—to fight hunger and make sure everyone has enough to eat. They could cut down on wasted food or put money into farming that’s good for the planet. That way, they’d be a big part of making sure people have food and also fit in with the UAE’s plan for a future that lasts. 

Current State of Food Security in the UAE

The UAE came in 23rd worldwide on the 2022 Global Food Security Index. That shows how hard they’ve worked to make food easier to get, cheaper, and better quality. The country does have some tough problems. Almost all 90% of its food comes from other places, so any issues with the global supply chain can really hurt them.

The UAE wants to make sure everyone has enough to eat by 2051. Their plan involves new ideas, tech, and doing things in a way that doesn’t hurt the environment. They are working to grow more food locally, waste less food, and make sure everyone can get healthy meals. But, some people like those with low incomes, still struggle to get enough food.

Business Incentives for Addressing Food Insecurity

Addressing food insecurity isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also smart business. Here’s why companies in the UAE should really focus on it:

  • Alignment with UAE Vision 2030 and SDGs: Helping with food security fits right in with what the UAE wants to achieve by 2030, and it also helps with the United Nations’ goals for making the world a better place – mainly, stopping hunger.
  • Consumer Preference: People these days like to buy from companies that care about the world. A 2021 survey by PwC found that 83% of consumers believe companies should actively shape ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) best practices.
  • Employee Engagement: When companies do things that help society, their employees tend to be happier and stick around longer.
  • Regulatory Incentives: The UAE government wants businesses to get involved in making sure there’s enough food, so they’re offering partnerships and other good reasons to join in.

Practical Steps for Businesses to Create Social Impact

Here’s how businesses in the UAE can help make sure there’s enough food for everyone:

  • Assess Current Practices: Check your current ways to see where food is wasted, or things aren’t working well.
  • Engage Employees: Have your workers help with food projects, like volunteering at a food bank.
  • Integrate Food Security into CSR:  Make helping with food a key part of your company’s charity work.
  • Measure and Report: Watch how you’re doing and share the results with those who care.

Real-World Examples of Business Impact in the UAE

A bunch of companies in the UAE are helping out blue-collar workers, which shows they care about the community.

1. DHL:

DHL team put together care packages for Dubai’s blue-collar workers. They filled them with basics, some goodies, and thank-you notes. It really brought the DHL team closer and helped them give back to the community.

2. Point 72:

The Point72 team in Dubai, along with their families, put together 300 food packages with healthy food. Then, they gave them out to workers’ camps in Al Quoz. It was a great way for the team to show they care about giving back to the community.

3. KraftHeinz:

For Ramadan, the KraftHeinz team put together care packages by hand for their female blue-collar workers. The packages had nice things in them to show how much the company values these women’s hard work.

The Business Case for Tackling Food Insecurity

Taking on hunger and food problems isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s smart for business too. Companies that show they care about the planet and people usually see a lift in their brand image, keep customers longer, and make employees feel good about their jobs. When businesses help ensure everyone has enough to eat, they’re also building strong communities, which is super important for a healthy economy in the future.

In the UAE, more businesses are caring about social impact. That means if your business actively fights food insecurity, you can stand out as a leader who cares. Companies for Good UAE is a helpful place for businesses to connect, get advice, and work together to make a difference.

Joining Hands for a Hunger-Free World

Dealing with hunger and lack of food is tough, and we all need to pitch in. Businesses have a big part to play since they have resources and influence. Companies can really make a difference in the UAE and help worldwide food security by cutting down on food waste, backing farming that doesn’t hurt the earth, working with local communities, and teaming up with others.

The UAE is still pushing hard on new ideas and staying green, which means businesses have a huge chance to make a real difference. If they line up what they do with what the country and the world are trying to achieve, they can really help make sure no one is hungry. That’s something that would be good for everyone.

If you want to see how businesses are helping out, check out Companies for Good UAE. Let’s work together to make sure everyone has enough food.

Back