UAE Food Bank helps divert over 5,400 tonnes of food from landfill

The UAE Food Bank’s aid initiatives reached 28.9 million beneficiaries worldwide in 2024, marking a 55% increase from 2023 and surpassing its performance targets by over 100%.

In addition to its humanitarian efforts, the Food Bank made notable strides in environmental sustainability, diverting 5,466 tonnes of food from landfills, by redistributing surplus food items.

This effort contributed to reducing food waste and emissions, aligning with the UAE’s goal to cut food waste by 30% by 2027.

The Bank also strengthened its global partnerships, signing 30 new agreements with government entities, humanitarian organisations and food industry leaders, further expanding its reach and impact in global food security.

In its emergency relief efforts, the UAE Food Bank delivered 166.7 tonnes of food to the Emirates Red Crescent, with much of it sent to Gaza during Ramadan as part of the 'Compassion for Gaza' campaign.

An additional 12.08 tonnes were delivered to Lebanon under the 'UAE With You, Lebanon' campaign, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to international humanitarian aid.

By the end of December 2024, the total volume of food distributed reached 16,923 tonnes, with shipped aid including everything from vegetables, fruits, dairy products and meat to grains, pasta and grocery staples.

In 2024, the number of donors from local and international food organizations rose to 1,214, reflecting a 52% increase in participation.

The Food Bank also conducted 157 awareness programmes, engaging 4,357 participants in initiatives promoting responsible food consumption and sustainability.

Expanding further in 2024, approximately 5,000 volunteers and active participants supported surplus food management and distribution efforts, increasing the number of beneficiaries served.

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.

UAE Food Bank releases 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%. Since its establishment in 2017,… pic.twitter.com/UTRsZmXemq

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) February 24, 2025