Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is opening new doors for international investors with the launch of the innovative AgriFood Growth & Water Abundance (AGWA) project. This ambitious plan aims to tap into a global industry valued at $21.08 trillion, with immense potential for growth and job creation.
Since its recent presentation, AGWA has generated excitement in the financial and agricultural world. The project not only seeks to stimulate Abu Dhabi’s economy but also to position the Emirate as a global leader in solutions to address food and water scarcity, two of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Opportunities in a $21 trillion industry
Agwa emerges as a response to the global need for innovation in the agri-food and water sectors, industries that together reach a value of 21.08 trillion dollars. The project aims to become a central hub for suppliers and exporters, serving as a platform to maximize business opportunities and meet the growing global demand.
Agwa’s approach is not only to leverage the enormous economic potential but also to lead efforts to solve structural problems in food and water production and supply. By capitalizing on regulatory advantages and streamlining licensing, the cluster will attract investors and pioneers who will drive new innovations in these critical sectors.
Aware of changes in dietary patterns and pressures on agricultural systems, Agwa positions itself as a global center for new foods and ingredients. Additionally, it will promote advanced technologies that improve access to and use of water resources, thus ensuring a reliable and resilient supply chain.
Agwa: attracting billion-dollar investments
It is projected that Agwa will attract investments worth 34.8 billion dollars by the year 2045, thus strengthening the economy of Abu Dhabi and technological development in the agri-food and water sectors. By creating a conducive business environment, the project hopes to position the Emirate as a preferred destination for international investors.
Agwa’s strategy includes collaboration with government and private entities to facilitate regulatory approvals, ensuring an efficient granting of licenses. This integrated approach allows for the acceleration of project implementation and the market entry of new innovative solutions.
Furthermore, Agwa seeks to leverage technological advancements to enhance the traditional production and supply of food and water, placing innovation at the core of the project. This is expected to attract companies and entrepreneurs who share the vision of a more sustainable and efficient future.
A wave of employment: 60,000 new jobs
The social impact of AGWA is as significant as its economic potential. It is estimated that by 2045, the project will have generated more than 60,000 new jobs, benefiting not only Abu Dhabi but also professionals from around the world. This massive job creation will offer opportunities in multiple areas of the agri-food and water sectors.
AGWA aims to be a catalyst for talent development in key areas such as sustainable agriculture, water technologies, and agri-food innovation, fostering specialized training and education. It will thus contribute to the creation of a workforce that supports the continuous growth of the sector and innovation.
This focus on human capital reinforces Abu Dhabi’s commitment to economic diversification and long-term sustainability, investing in people as a fundamental pillar. It ensures that the project is not only economically successful but also socially responsible and beneficial for the community.
BOOST TO ABU DHABI’S GDP: A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
With an expected contribution of $24.5 billion to Abu Dhabi’s GDP by 2045, AGWA is positioned as a fundamental pillar in the Emirate’s economic strategy. The project represents the next phase of diversification and growth, moving away from the traditional dependence on hydrocarbons and strengthening emerging sectors.
AGWA is not an isolated effort; it follows the launch of the Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industries cluster (SAVI) in 2023, forming part of a comprehensive vision to prepare Abu Dhabi’s economy for the future. Both projects promote sustainability and innovation across multiple key sectors.
By focusing on strategic and emerging areas, Abu Dhabi demonstrates its commitment to shaping a brighter future for both the Emirate and the world, betting on sustainable solutions that address global challenges. AGWA is more than an economic project; it is an initiative aimed at improving quality of life on an international scale.
