The United Arab Emirates has achieved a historic milestone after being elected as the Geographic Representative for the Near East at the Codex Alimentarius Commission for the 2026–2028 term. The election marks the first time the UAE has secured this influential position, reinforcing its growing stature in global food safety and standardisation.
The decision was made during the 48th session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, held at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome. The UAE delegation was led by Her Excellency Mouza Suhail Al Muhairi, Deputy Director-General for Regulatory and Administrative Affairs at the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority and Chair of the UAE National Codex Committee.
A Seat on the Codex Executive Committee
With this appointment, the UAE will take a seat on the Codex Executive Committee, the Commission’s core decision-making body. The Executive Committee plays a vital role in shaping strategic direction, setting priorities, developing work plans, and overseeing the implementation of international food standards programmes.
This position ensures that the Near East region’s perspectives—ranging from dietary patterns and production systems to economic and public health priorities—are represented in global food safety discussions. For the UAE, it also provides an opportunity to influence policy frameworks that directly impact food trade, consumer protection, and agricultural sustainability worldwide.
The Codex Alimentarius Commission, jointly established by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization, is the leading international body responsible for developing harmonised food standards, guidelines, and codes of practice. Its standards serve as benchmarks for food safety and are recognised by the World Trade Organization in resolving trade disputes.
Strengthening Regional Representation
The UAE’s election signals strong international confidence in its regulatory systems, scientific expertise, and policy leadership in the food sector. As Geographic Representative for the Near East, the country will act as a bridge between member states in the region and the global decision-making framework of Codex.
This role carries both responsibility and opportunity. The UAE will coordinate with countries across the Near East to reflect regional concerns and priorities in global standards discussions. It will also facilitate knowledge-sharing, technical cooperation, and collaborative initiatives aimed at enhancing food safety capacity across the region.
For countries facing challenges related to climate conditions, water scarcity, and food imports, representation at this level is particularly significant. The UAE’s experience in managing similar challenges positions it well to advocate for practical, science-based standards that consider regional realities.
Aligning with the National Food Security Strategy
The appointment directly supports the objectives of the UAE National Food Security Strategy 2051. The strategy aims to position the country among the top nations in global food security indices by ensuring diversified food sources, sustainable local production, and resilient supply chains.
By securing a seat on the Executive Committee, the UAE strengthens its ability to align international food standards with its national priorities. This includes promoting sustainable agricultural practices, advancing innovation in food production, and ensuring the highest levels of food safety and quality control.
Over the years, the UAE has consistently ranked highly in global food security indicators, reflecting its investments in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and advanced technologies. The new role enhances the country’s influence in shaping international policies that affect food trade and consumer health.
Leadership of HE Mouza Suhail Al Muhairi
Her Excellency Mouza Suhail Al Muhairi brings more than 25 years of administrative and scientific experience in government service. She has played a central role in establishing and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s food control system, contributing to the emirate’s strong performance in global food safety assessments.
As Chair of the UAE National Codex Committee, operating under the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Al Muhairi leads a platform that unites representatives from government entities, the private sector, academic institutions, and research centres. The committee is responsible for coordinating the UAE’s positions at Codex meetings and preparing technical studies and proposals aligned with national interests.
Under her leadership, the UAE has actively participated in various Codex committees, contributing expertise in areas such as risk analysis, food hygiene, labelling, and standards development. Her election as Near East Geographic Representative reflects recognition of both her individual leadership and the institutional strength of the UAE’s food safety framework.
Expanding Global Partnerships
The appointment further strengthens the UAE’s engagement with major international organisations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization. Both institutions jointly manage the Codex Alimentarius Commission and rely on scientific evidence to guide international food standards.
By joining the Executive Committee, the UAE gains greater visibility and influence within these global networks. It also enhances its capacity to contribute to science-based decision-making processes that protect consumers and facilitate fair food trade.
Al Muhairi noted that the election reflects international trust in the UAE’s regulatory and scientific capabilities. She highlighted the country’s advanced institutional framework in food control and risk assessment, as well as its commitment to transparency and international cooperation.
A Platform for Innovation and Sustainability
Beyond regulatory influence, the new role positions the UAE as a hub for food innovation. The country has increasingly invested in agricultural technology, controlled-environment farming, alternative proteins, and sustainable production systems. Participation at the Executive Committee level allows the UAE to promote innovative standards that accommodate emerging technologies and sustainable practices.
This is particularly important as global food systems face mounting pressures from climate change, population growth, and shifting consumer expectations. International standards must evolve to address these challenges while ensuring safety and fairness. The UAE’s proactive approach to innovation gives it a strong voice in these conversations.
The milestone also reinforces the UAE’s commitment to consumer protection. Food safety remains a cornerstone of public health, and Codex standards play a crucial role in safeguarding consumers from foodborne risks. By contributing to the development of these standards, the UAE helps shape policies that protect millions of people worldwide.
A National Achievement with Regional Impact
The election is more than a diplomatic success; it represents a broader national achievement. It reflects years of investment in scientific capacity, regulatory excellence, and international engagement. It also signals the UAE’s determination to move from being a participant in global discussions to becoming a leader within them.
For the Near East region, the UAE’s appointment offers a renewed opportunity to strengthen collective representation and address shared challenges in food safety and security. By fostering collaboration and advocating for balanced, science-driven standards, the UAE can help elevate regional priorities on the global stage.
As the 2026–2028 term unfolds, the UAE’s presence on the Codex Executive Committee is expected to contribute to stronger international cooperation, more inclusive standards development, and greater resilience in global food systems. The achievement underscores the nation’s long-term vision: building sustainable, innovative, and secure food systems that benefit both its citizens and the wider world.
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