SIG Showcases Innovation Hub in Dubai to Boost UAE Food Security and F&B Growth

Food & FMCG

SIG Showcases Innovation Hub in Dubai to Boost UAE Food Security and F&B Growth

SIG is advancing efforts to support food security and innovation in the United Arab Emirates through its Customer Experience Hub located in Dubai Silicon Oasis.

The facility—described as a first-of-its-kind in the region—enables F&B companies, startups, and entrepreneurs to test products, refine go-to-market strategies, and accelerate development using cutting-edge packaging technologies.

Supporting UAE’s Food Security Strategy

The initiative aligns with the UAE’s long-term goals under the National Food Security Strategy 2051, which focuses on diversification, resilience, and technological advancement in the food sector.

With the UAE importing approximately 85–90% of its food, strengthening local capabilities and supply chain resilience remains a critical priority amid geopolitical tensions and climate-related challenges.

Advanced Capabilities for Product Development

At the Dubai-based hub, SIG operates a fully functional packaging line equipped with the latest filling machines, enabling businesses to:

Test and validate new food and beverage products
Optimise packaging for sustainability and efficiency
Accelerate time-to-market through real-time experimentation

The centre also features advanced extrusion systems, quality measurement tools, and digital technologies, helping ensure that products meet evolving consumer expectations and regulatory standards.

Driving Regional Growth in Packaging

The Middle East and Africa’s F&B packaging market is projected to reach $16.6 billion by 2030, driven by rising demand for sustainable and innovative packaging solutions.

Key markets include:

Saudi Arabia, expected to reach $1.7 billion by 2026
United Arab Emirates, with the broader packaging market projected at $14.75 billion by 2030

This growth is fuelling increased investment in next-generation packaging technologies across sectors including food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care.

Leadership Driving Transformation

The initiative is led by Abdelghany Eladib, President & General Manager for the Middle East and Africa at SIG, who brings over 26 years of experience in the F&B industry.

Since assuming his role in 2021, Eladib has focused on digital transformation, operational efficiency, and strategic expansion, positioning SIG as a key partner in the region’s evolving food ecosystem.

Strengthening Resilience Through Innovation

As global supply chains face ongoing disruption risks, initiatives like SIG’s innovation hub are playing a crucial role in enhancing local production capabilities, improving efficiency, and supporting sustainable practices.

The company’s efforts highlight the growing importance of public-private collaboration and technology-driven solutions in building a more resilient and future-ready F&B sector in the UAE.