Date: 26 Oct, 2025
Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC)
His Excellency Dr. Obaid Saif Hamad Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Board of the Arab Authority for Agricultural Investment and Development (AAAID), participated in the Global Food Talks panel discussion titled “Power Plays – Venture Capital vs Sovereign Funds in Agri-Food Investment” during Global Food Week 2025, hosted by the capital Abu Dhabi at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC).
The panel explored the dynamic interplay between venture capital and sovereign wealth funds in shaping global agricultural and food investment, emphasizing the need to balance economic returns with long-term developmental impact.
During his intervention, H.E. Dr. Obaid Al Zaabi highlighted that effective investment is the main driver of agricultural and food innovation, stressing that the coming period requires a new level of dynamism combining investment flexibility with institutional discipline to achieve sustainable developmental outcomes.
He underscored AAAID’s role as a leading regional investment organization in food security, noting that the authority integrates developmental objectives with economic viability. AAAID actively funds and develops strategic projects that strengthen agricultural production and supply chains across Arab countries, in partnership with governments, the private sector, and international financial institutions.
The session featured an in depth exchange of ideas among global investment leaders and food finance experts, discussing strategies to mobilize venture capital and sovereign funds to support agricultural innovation and adopt advanced technologies. Participants highlighted the critical importance of cross-border partnerships in achieving comprehensive and sustainable food security.
Concluding his remarks, H.E. Dr. Obaid Al Zaabi affirmed that investing in food is investing in the economic and social stability of the Arab world, emphasizing AAAID’s commitment to integrating Arab and international capital to drive the transition toward a more efficient and sustainable food system.
AAAID’s participation in Global Food Week reflects its ongoing efforts to expand strategic partnerships and strengthen its international profile as an Arab investment platform dedicated to advancing sustainable development goals and ensuring food security for future generations.
