AAFG and Khalifa University Partner for Food Innovation

Al Ain Farms Group (AAFG) and Khalifa University Enterprises Company (KUEC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition. This new partnership aims to improve research, innovation, and sustainability in the UAE’s food industry. It strengthens the country’s goal to become a leader in food security and promotes the use of science and technology to grow the sector.

The agreement also opens doors for students and researchers to gain practical experience. Al Ain Farms will allow students from Khalifa University to access real-world food production facilities. This exposure will help young researchers turn their ideas into market-ready solutions. It will also help the UAE grow a skilled workforce that can lead future food security projects.

Al Ain Farms Group brings together five of the UAE’s most trusted food brands — Al Ain Farms, Marmum Dairy, Al Ajban Chicken, Al Jazira Poultry’s Golden Eggs, and Saha Arabian Farms. The group plays a key role in providing fresh, high-quality, and locally produced food. Its complete production model includes everything from feed production and hatcheries to processing, packaging, and logistics. This makes AAFG a strong supporter of the UAE’s goal of self-sufficiency in food.

One of the major focus areas of this partnership is camel milk. The project combines Khalifa University’s advanced research and AAFG’s large-scale operations to develop better technologies for nutrition, animal health, and product quality. Camel milk is known for its high protein and health benefits. The collaboration will explore new ways to increase its shelf life and create global markets for camel milk-based products. The partnership also plans to turn Khalifa University’s research into commercial success, helping the UAE become a global leader in camel milk innovation.

Another key area of focus is developing eco-friendly poultry feed. By using local agricultural by-products, the partnership will produce affordable and sustainable feed options. These new feed solutions will improve animal nutrition and reduce waste. The initiative supports the UAE’s circular economy vision, which aims to turn food system waste into valuable resources, protecting the environment and supporting long-term sustainability.

Through this partnership, Khalifa University students and researchers will work on real industry challenges. They will develop innovative solutions that can directly benefit the UAE’s food sector. Al Ain Farms will also benefit from the university’s innovation hub, where new ideas can be tested and improved. This cooperation ensures that the UAE continues to build a strong knowledge-based economy led by innovation.

The partnership supports the UAE’s national goal to rank among the top 10 countries in the Global Food Security Index. It promotes sustainable and science-driven solutions that reduce food waste and enhance efficiency. The collaboration also aligns with the “We the UAE 2031” vision, which focuses on creating a diverse, innovation-led, and sustainable economy for future generations.

Amal Nasser Al Jaberi, CEO of Khalifa University Enterprises Company, said that this partnership shows how the university’s research can make a real-world impact. She explained that the collaboration will help turn innovation into practical solutions, strengthen the UAE’s food security, and support students and researchers in creating sustainable projects.

Hassan Safi, Group CEO of Al Ain Farms Group, said that the partnership combines the research power of Khalifa University with the operational experience of Al Ain Farms. He highlighted the focus on camel milk as a proud part of Emirati heritage. The goal is to promote its health benefits and reduce food waste, while inspiring future generations and showcasing UAE innovation to the world.

Through this collaboration, AAFG and Khalifa University are creating a model of university–industry partnership that will help build a sustainable food system. The alliance will also manage technology and intellectual property jointly, ensuring that all breakthroughs remain within the UAE. This step ensures that the UAE’s food innovations contribute directly to national development and global recognition.