The UAE is steadily positioning itself as a global leader in sustainability and food security, underpinned by strong government vision, youth empowerment, advanced technology, and community-driven communication.
At the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2025) in Sharjah, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) outlined its integrated approach, highlighting how innovation, policy, and public engagement converge to shape a resilient future.
Youth as Catalysts of Agricultural Innovation
His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector, emphasized that the UAE has turned its environmental constraints into opportunities. With vertical farming reducing water use by over 90%, the country now hosts some of the world’s most advanced farms.
Al Hammadi underlined the Ministry’s strategy to place young people at the heart of this transformation through initiatives such as the Plant the Emirates programme, the Mustadeem leadership initiative, and the Emirates Youth Council for Agriculture. These efforts empower the next generation to lead the sustainable agriculture sector.
A National Partnership for the Sea
Her Excellency Hiba Obaid Al Shehhi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Biodiversity and Aquatic Life, presented an ambitious vision for marine sustainability. With projects including 100 million mangroves by 2030 and the region’s largest coral reef rehabilitation, the UAE is redefining marine protection.
Al Shehhi proposed a “National Partnership for the Sea” – a societal charter uniting regulators, fishermen, youth, scientists, and the private sector. This initiative aims to shift the role of citizens from beneficiaries of marine resources to guardians of their long-term health, embedding sustainability in national identity.
Science-Led Policies to Empower Fishermen
Dr. Ibrahim Abdulla Al Jamali, Director of Fisheries, stressed that MOCCAE’s decisions are anchored in scientific research. Through the National Framework for Sustainable Fisheries 2019–2030, the Ministry regulates tools, seasons, and marine ecosystems while promoting aquaculture as a future growth driver.
Empowering fishermen remains central—supported by port upgrades, cooperative associations, and direct aid. This science-based approach ensures both environmental balance and economic resilience.
Communication Rooted in National Values
For Hajar Bakhit Al Ketbi, Director of Government Communication, sustainability succeeds only when it resonates with community values. Citing Sheikh Zayed’s legacy and initiatives like ne’ma (National Food Loss and Waste Initiative), Al Ketbi explained how communication grounded in culture transforms awareness campaigns into collective responsibility.
Campaigns such as “Our Heritage…Our Future” connect sustainability to national identity, while encouraging local food consumption strengthens both the economy and social fabric.
Building a Sustainable Future
MOCCAE’s participation at IGCF underscored the UAE’s holistic approach: blending advanced technology, empowering youth, safeguarding marine ecosystems, and engaging communities through values-driven communication.
By rooting sustainability in identity and knowledge, the UAE is crafting a model that balances prosperity with environmental stewardship—offering valuable lessons for the region and beyond.