Dubai to feed surplus wedding food to those in need under new partnership

Authorities in Dubai have joined forces to ensure surplus food from weddings and events will be redistributed to "eligible beneficiaries" as long as it meets safety consumption standards.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the UAE Food Bank and Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai aims to reduce food wastage and maximise the use of surplus food through the ‘Dubai Weddings’ initiative.

It will establish a framework for the collection and redistribution of surplus food and provide joint awareness campaigns and community programmes about responsible food management.

"By ensuring that surplus food... is safely recovered and redistributed to those in need, we are creating additional opportunities for giving while encouraging responsible consumption and the efficient use of resources," highlighted Dr. Ahmed Al Hashemi, CEO of the Social Regulation and Services Sector at the Community Development Authority in Dubai.

“This partnership reflects the values of solidarity and generosity that characterise Dubai's community and demonstrates the importance of collaboration between government entities and humanitarian organisations."

The agreement forms part of the CDA's continued efforts to enhance the ‘Dubai Weddings’ initiative and expand its contribution to community wellbeing. It also supports UAE Food Bank's commitment to developing an integrated and sustainable approach to surplus food management, ensuring that food suitable for consumption is recovered and redistributed to beneficiaries while encouraging responsible practices that reduce waste and conserve resources.