ne’ma’s Ramadan 2026 Drive Rescues 300,000 Tonnes Food

The National Food Loss and Waste Initiative, ne’ma, has successfully delivered its Valuing Our Roots campaign for Ramadan 2026, marking its largest operational rollout across the UAE since inception.

For the first time, the initiative ran simultaneously in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, rescuing over 300,000 tonnes of food, a 50% increase from last year.

Central to the campaign were ne’ma Family Iftar Boxes, which redistributed surplus fresh produce and non-perishable items from major suppliers, including Majid Al Futtaim Group, Silal, and Agthia Group, to more than 10,000 low-income families.

This year, ne’ma transformed its packing centres into community hubs, inviting families, corporate partners, and Emirates Foundation staff to volunteer together. Multi-generational participation emphasised the UAE’s values of compassion and unity, allowing families to share in the act of giving.

Khuloud Hassan Al Nuwais, Chief Sustainability Officer of Emirates Foundation, said:
"During Ramadan and the Year of Family, ne’ma’s food rescue programmes ensure that safe, nutritious food reaches families, strengthens partnerships, and protects resources across the Emirates."

The campaign was supported by strategic partners including Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), Khalifa Foundation, Majid Al Futtaim Group, and more than 20 food retailers and distributors. Silal contributed high-quality, imperfect produce, reinforcing its commitment to reducing food loss.

Humaid Al Rumaithi, CEO of Food Security at Silal, said:
"Through our partnership with ne’ma, we strengthened surplus management and improved redistribution channels, advancing responsible food practices across the value chain."

Over 54 scheduled activities, ne’ma and Takatof engaged thousands of volunteers to pack and distribute boxes at seven central hubs, including Expo City Dubai and Al Moatasem School, Abu Dhabi.

Mohamed Al Hosani, Director of Leadership and Empowerment at Emirates Foundation, said:
"This collaboration channels community engagement into meaningful action, teaching adults and children to value resources and fostering long-term awareness of food responsibility."

Through the Valuing Our Roots campaign, ne’ma continues to raise awareness on food loss and waste, supporting the UAE Food Security Strategy 2051 and the national goal to halve food loss and waste by 2030, aligning with UN SDG 12.3.