Abu Dhabi-Based Agthia Group Launches First-of-Its-Kind Academy To Upskill Emiratis In Food Manufacturing

Agthia Group PJSC, an Abu Dhabi–based food and beverage company and part of ADQ, one of the Middle East’s largest holding companies, in partnership with Bühler, a Switzerland-based technology provider, has unveiled the Agthia Academy, a first-of-its-kind platform aimed at building capabilities across the food and beverage sector. 

The initiative, which was announced at this year's edition of Make it in the Emirates, has been designed to provide Emirati entrepreneurs, operators, and aspiring specialists with world-class expertise in food manufacturing, particularly in milling, baking, and production excellence. 

The Academy thus reflects an industry-led approach to skills development, strengthening capabilities across the food value chain, raising operational standards, and supporting sustainable sector growth. Through the program, participants will apply international standards in daily operations, improving quality, efficiency, and discipline.  

In a statement, Salmeen Alameri, Managing Director and CEO of Agthia Group, said, "The Academy reflects our firm belief that the future of the UAE’s food sector will be built on the strength of its people. We are creating a practical pathway that empowers Emirati talent to access global best practices and apply them with confidence, improving consistency, productivity, and operational excellence. By linking learning with real-world application and measurable outcomes, the Academy supports the UAE’s long-term food security ambitions and contributes to building a more resilient, competitive, and innovation-driven food economy."

Heiko Feuring, President at Bühler for Middle East, Africa and India, added, "At Bühler, we believe the future of food manufacturing depends on equipping talent with both global knowledge and hands-on experience. Through our partnership with Agthia, the Academy provides Emirati entrepreneurs, operators, and specialists with access to advanced technologies, modern production practices, and deep industry expertise. By combining world-class training with practical application, we are helping to develop a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability across the UAE’s food sector."

The Academy will integrate classroom learning, hands-on technical training, and international exposure, with training set to be delivered across Agthia Group’s facilities in Abu Dhabi, as well as Bühler Group’s global training centers in Switzerland. It also expands ties with the country's top academic institutions, including UAE University, Zayed University, and Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches. Through these partnerships, universities gain access to advanced technologies, industry know-how, and practical training frameworks, enabling them to enhance curricula, better equip students for shifting industry needs, and develop career pathways aligned with global food sector standards.