UAE Wins Global Silver at Apimondia 2025 for Beekeeping

Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has brought home global recognition after winning second place (Silver Medal) in the Best Book on Beekeeping competition at the Apimondia Congress 2025 in Copenhagen.

The winning publication, Bees and Beekeeping in the United Arab Emirates, marks a milestone as the first comprehensive reference documenting the UAE’s journey in beekeeping — from its native bee species and traditional practices to modern innovations and environmental challenges.

ADAFSA’s achievements didn’t stop there. The authority also secured fourth place in the Decorative Wax Sculpture and National Landmark Wax Display contests, underscoring the UAE’s growing reputation for creativity and scientific excellence in apiculture.

The 49th Apimondia Congress, held from 23–27 September 2025, gathered experts and enthusiasts from over 120 countries. The event featured 216 pavilions, 177 exhibitors, and a robust scientific programme with 300 presentations and 600 research posters.

One of the main attractions was the international honey tasting, offering 250 honey varieties from 42 countries and over 111,000 tasting sessions. Emirati honeys — including Samar, Sidr, Ghaf, and Qurm (Mangrove) — impressed visitors for their rich aroma and distinctive desert flavour.

ADAFSA’s delegation played an active role in the congress’s academic programme, presenting findings from three UAE-based studies on topics such as cooling shelters for bees, pathogens affecting local colonies, and developing bee-friendly flowering resources. They also joined workshops on pollen grain classification and modern hive management.

As the UAE prepares to host the 50th Apimondia Congress in Dubai in 2027, ADAFSA used the event to promote the upcoming edition, meeting with global participants, conducting Emirati honey tastings, and distributing samples to raise awareness about the country’s apiculture excellence.

These achievements highlight the UAE’s growing influence in global beekeeping science. ADAFSA’s pioneering work on desert beekeeping, pollinator health, and sustainable agriculture continues to set an international benchmark — showing how innovation and resilience can thrive even in the harshest climates.