Mubasher: Switzerland-based NUOS AG is expected to establish a headquarters (HQ) in Abu Dhabi as a regional hub, which will boost the emirate's strategic location and resources for more growth in Europe, North America, and the MENA market.
NUOS MENA is set to be a central innovation, production, and commercialisation hub to facilitate and manage the Swiss company’s major projects, according to a press release.
In addition, AgriFood Growth and Water Abundance (AGWA), the newly food and water cluster launched by the UAE capital, teamed up with the Swiss alternative protein innovation and production specialist to commence operations in Abu Dhabi and establish an innovation centre and food manufacturing facilities for alternative protein production.
NUOS office in Abu Dhabi is forecast to contribute to ensuring that the emirate can capture opportunities in the growing food and water market which would hit AED 77.40 trillion by 2045.
Upon the collaboration, NUOS will be the world-leading independent Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation facility for alternative proteins while collaborating with Abu Dhabi-based research and development institutes in areas related to innovative and sustainable food technologies.
Director General at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Badr Al Olama, said: “The development of a world-leading alternative protein production facility in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step forward for both the UAE and the wider region.”
Al Olama elaborated on building the new centre by saying: “Once operational, the facility will add scale, diversity and accessibility to our growing food ecosystem, bringing with it real-world benefits that will be immediately felt by consumers. Importantly, this development sends a strong vote of confidence about Abu Dhabi’s intent to be an influential global player in sustainable food solutions, where the emirate is openly embracing a future for food characterised by innovations that deliver impact.”
From his side, Bjoern Witte, Chairman of NUOS, said: “For the launch of our first giga facility, we have been looking for the right partner who shares the vision, mission and has the ecosystem to drive a global transition. Amongst all of the nations’ proposals NUOS received, it was clear from the outset that Abu Dhabi would be the natural partner.”
AGWA is led by both ADIO and the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) with a goal to become a global hub for novel food and ingredients. It supports local suppliers and exporters while serving as a platform to maximise commercial opportunities.
It is worth noting that over recent years, ADIO joined forces with various innovative food and water companies focused on developing solutions for desert and arid climates. Moreover, the UAE investment entity partnered with Khazna Data Centres earlier in 2024 to build an advanced data centre in Abu Dhabi.