NRTC at MIITE 2025: Growing Partnerships, Cultivating the Future š±
At MIITE 2025, NRTC proudly signed four groundbreaking MoUs with like-minded partners who share our vision for a more resilient, sustainable food ecosystem in the UAE.
Our new partners ā Samarat Farms, ESG Agro, House of Organics, and Tech Agro ā each bring a unique strength to the table, from local farming excellence to cutting-edge agri-tech innovation. These strategic alliances represent our unwavering commitment to:
ā Advancing sustainable, eco-friendly farming practices ā Supporting UAE-grown produce and local suppliers ā Strengthening responsible sourcing and distribution ā Delivering premium, traceable products to households and businesses
These partnerships are more than just collaborations ā theyāre a shared investment in food security, sustainability, and innovation. At NRTC, we believe the future of food is local, smart, and rooted in trust.
NRTC Partners with UAE Food Bank for a Fruitful Giving Drive
At NRTC, we believe that the true spirit of Eid lies in sharing ā not just celebrations, but also compassion. This Eid Al Adha, we brought that belief to life by partnering with the UAE Food Bank to launch a charitable fruit basket drive that touched lives across the UAE.
The initiative aimed to bring smiles to underprivileged families by delivering beautifully curated fruit baskets filled with fresh, premium-quality fruits. Handpicked at our farms and facilities, each basket was prepared with utmost care and a deep sense of purpose.
From early morning packing sessions to heartwarming distribution moments at local centers, our collaboration with the UAE Food Bank ensured that these baskets reached the hands of those who needed them most.
āThis wasnāt just a charity drive ā it was a mission of connection. Each basket symbolized nourishment, hope, and the spirit of community. Today we are not only wrappinb Baskets, but adding joy to someones Eidā shared a member of the NRTC volunteer team.
With over 500 fruit baskets delivered, this initiative reflects our commitment to responsible business practices, social good, and reducing food waste through impactful partnerships.
Why This MattersThis effort forms a part of our broader CSR movement under #NRTCForGood, where we align our actions with the UAEās national vision of sustainability and collective prosperity. Through programs like this, we ensure that food reaches every table, especially during festivals that celebrate gratitude and generosity.
We thank the UAE Food Bank and all our team members and partners for making this Eid truly special. As we grow, we remain committed to nurturing communities with care, quality, and compassion.
Showcasing the Certifications and Standards That Guide NRTC
Since its founding in 1973, NRTC has remained committed to delivering fresh produce with integrity, consistency, and care. From the early days in Dubaiās thriving fruit and vegetable markets to its current presence across regional and international networks, the companyās success has been anchored in a continuous improvement of operations.
A key element of this success lies in NRTCās rigorous approach to food safety and quality assurance. These values are reflected in the certifications that govern its daily practices, each one representing a recognized international benchmark, and each one forming part of a broader commitment to operational excellence.
Among the certifications obtained is ISO 22000:2018, a food safety management system that integrates HACCP principles and the standards set forth by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. This framework ensures that food safety hazards are identified and controlled at every step of the supply chain, from sourcing to distribution. In parallel, NRTC adheres to the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system, a globally recognized preventive approach designed to mitigate physical, chemical, biological, and allergenic risks during food production processes. Both systems are central to maintaining the safety and integrity of every product that reaches the customer.
A further layer of trust is provided through the implementation of ISO 9001:2015, which outlines the requirements for a robust quality management system. This certification ensures that customer expectations are met consistently, while also supporting internal efficiencies and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement.
NRTCās commitment extends beyond product safety into environmental responsibility and workplace wellbeing. Through ISO 14001:2015, the company actively manages and reduces its environmental footprint, with processes in place to measure and improve environmental performance over time. Additionally, ISO 45001:2015, which focuses on occupational health and safety, reflects the companyās dedication to creating safe, supportive working environments for its employees across all facilities.
Together, these certifications serve as active instruments of accountability and assurance. Clients and partners are offered the peace of mind that comes from working with a certified, reliable supplier that is aligned with global food safety and environmental standards.
NRTC continues to evolve, with ongoing investments in innovation and strategic partnerships designed to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The company remains committed to delivering excellence at every stage of the supply chain, ensuring that quality, safety, and sustainability are not only upheld but continuously strengthened.
In the world of fresh produce, timing is a defining factor of success. A few hours can mark the difference between peak ripeness and wasted inventory. As expectations around freshness, speed, and sustainability continue to rise, traditional methods no longer suffice.
The question is no longer how fast can fresh be delivered, but rather, how well can freshness be preserved and optimized at every step? This has reshaped the way operations are viewed. Technology must enable smarter decisions, reduce waste, and elevate quality at scale. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as an operational cornerstone already transforming how food is sourced, sorted, and served globally, and in particular across the GCC.
Digital strategies continue to evolve alongside AI and are being integrated as an essential driver of processes throughout the supply chain, from predictive order processing to data-driven quality control and intelligent routing. AI learns from patterns, adapts to demand, flags inconsistencies, and ensures order accuracy while maximizing operational efficiency through a system that is more responsive, traceable, and aligned with the principles of quality and sustainability.
AI is Precision at Every Step: The Role of AI Across the Value Chain
AI-Driven Quality Control
Freshness, once evaluated by the human eye, is now enhanced through sensor technology and computer vision. These tools provide real-time insight into product quality, enabling better consistency in every assessment.
Smart Logistics Optimization
Delivery logistics have been redefined, where routes and priorities are based on factors like shelf life and product sensitivity, and urgency is informing each dispatch to ensure freshness is delivered, not just shipped.
More Than Technology ā A Reimagined Operating Model
The adoption of AI empowers every layer of the business to think differently. By removing the burden of repetitive, error-prone tasks, AI is enabling human talent to focus on strategic work. It is also creating a more agile infrastructure that can respond in real-time to changes in supply, demand, and customer needs.
This approach is redefining what leadership in the fresh produce industry looks like. Not through rapid scaling alone, but through smart, sustainable, and purpose-driven innovation.
The future of food is being built intelligently, responsibly, and in real-time. What is being pursued is not automation, but augmentation, and the building of a foundation that delivers long-term value, improves lives, and reinforces trust across the ecosystem.
The future of fresh is here ā and itās powered by intelligence. Join us in shaping a smarter, fresher future.
As environmental concerns, food insecurity, and climate volatility continue to rise, sustainable farming is increasingly being recognized as a strategic priority for securing the future of global food systems. Defined by its focus on ecological balance, efficient resource use, and long-term viability, sustainable agriculture is no longer a concept for the future; it is being implemented and scaled today.
Within the context of the UAE and wider Middle East, where arid climates, limited arable land, and reliance on food imports present ongoing challenges, sustainable farming has emerged as both a necessity and an opportunity. Greater attention is now being directed toward practices that reduce environmental impact while ensuring consistent food production.
The Core Principles Driving Change
Sustainable farming is guided by principles that promote harmony between productivity and environmental responsibility. These include efficiency in water and energy consumption, conservation of biodiversity through crop diversity and natural habitats, a reduction in the use of synthetic chemicals in favor of organic alternatives, and the reinforcement of local economies and livelihoods.
These principles are being supported by on-the-ground applications such as smart irrigation, crop rotation, and the use of organic soil inputs, all aimed at reducing degradation while improving yield consistency.
Innovation at the Heart of Transformation
A transformation in agriculture, as in most industries, is being driven by data and technology. Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and satellite imagery are being adopted to optimize crop health monitoring, predict weather trends, and streamline resource allocation. Such advancements are allowing for more precise and predictive decision-making across agricultural operations.
Real-time insights, made possible by remote sensors and advanced analytics, are enabling farmers and suppliers to act earlier and smarter, resulting in both environmental and economic gains.
A Regional Shift Toward Sustainable Practice
In the UAE, national initiatives are accelerating the transition toward sustainability. Frameworks such as the Emirates Sustainable Agriculture Label and the work of institutions like the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) are helping redefine what is possible in desert agriculture.
Government support, public-private partnerships, and greater investment in agritech are creating a more resilient and adaptable food production landscape, one that aligns with long-term food security strategies.
Overcoming Barriers, Unlocking Potential
While momentum around sustainable farming is accelerating, a number of region-specific challenges remain across the UAE and the broader GCC.
Water scarcity remains the most pressing constraint, as agriculture in the region relies heavily on groundwater and energy-intensive desalination. Limited arable land and extreme weather conditions also restrict the types of crops that can be grown efficiently, making year-round, high-yield farming difficult without advanced solutions.
In parallel, high setup costs for sustainable technologies such as smart irrigation systems, greenhouse structures, or biosaline agriculture continue to be a barrier, particularly for small- and medium-sized growers.
Though consumer awareness is growing, a widespread demand for sustainably grown produce is still in early stages, meaning that market-driven incentives are only just beginning to take shape.
However, these challenges are not insurmountable. With continued investment, knowledge-sharing, and regulatory alignment, the region is well-positioned to accelerate the shift toward smarter, more sustainable food systems.
A Future-Oriented Approach
Embracing sustainable farming is no longer optional; it is becoming a shared responsibility across industries and borders. At NRTC, a commitment to sustainable sourcing, innovation, and efficiency continues to guide how operations are approached and partnerships are built. As part of the wider agricultural ecosystem, the organization recognizes its role in supporting a more secure, resilient, and sustainable food future.
NRTC will be participating in Make it in the Emirates 2025 ā the UAEās leading platform for industrial growth and innovation ā taking place from 19ā22 May 2025 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Make it in the Emirates 2025 is the nationās premier manufacturing event, uniting innovators, investors, and policymakers to shape the future of the industry. Over four days, this transformative platform will highlight emerging opportunities, showcase cutting-edge solutions, and foster strategic collaboration across 12 key sectors. With world-class networking, guaranteed procurement programs, and actionable insights, the event provides a gateway to sustainable growth within the UAEās rapidly evolving industrial ecosystem.
As a strategic initiative aligned with Operation 300bn and the āProjects of the 50ā, the event serves as a catalyst for industrial transformation, decarbonization, and enhanced In-Country Value (ICV). Through curated engagement with key government stakeholders, investors, and policymakers, the platform enables meaningful dialogue and lasting partnerships that drive forward the UAEās long-term vision.
NRTCās participation will highlight its role in strengthening national food supply chains through scalable infrastructures, advanced distribution capabilities, and localized manufacturing initiatives. As the UAEās largest fresh produce supplier, NRTC Fresh is actively seeking to engage with industry leaders, manufacturers, and government stakeholders to explore meaningful partnerships that support the nationās food security and sustainability goals and collaborate on solutions that strengthen local supply chains and drive progress in line with the UAEās long-term vision.
Visit us at Hall 1, Stand 1 ā FB20 to learn how NRTC Fresh is helping shape the future of industry in the UAE.
In a world where food often travels thousands of miles before reaching the table, the value of locally sourced produce has never been more important. At NRTC, supporting homegrown agriculture is a core commitment that connects every step of the journey from farm to market.
It Begins with Local Farmers
Across the UAE, NRTC partners with trusted local farms that share a commitment to quality, sustainability, and responsible cultivation. These farms are the backbone of the nationās agricultural ecosystem. By sourcing directly from local producers, NRTC plays an active role in strengthening national food resilience while supporting the livelihoods of farming communities.
Through these partnerships, crops are harvested at peak ripeness, and then immediately integrated into a streamlined post-harvest workflow designed to preserve freshness at every stage.
Freshness is Maintained, Not Assumed
Once produce leaves the farm, every hour counts. NRTCās cold chain logistics and temperature-controlled handling ensure that fruits and vegetables remain in peak condition from the field to the market shelf.
Advanced sorting, quality checks, and rapid distribution allow for quick movement through the supply chain without compromising product integrity. From storage hubs to retail partners and end consumers, the freshness enjoyed at the table reflects decisions made at every touchpoint in the journey.
A Shared Responsibility for Food Security
By prioritizing local sourcing, NRTC is contributing to the UAEās long-term goals of food security, sustainability, and agricultural self-sufficiency. These arenāt abstract targets ā they are everyday decisions that impact how food is grown, delivered, and consumed across the region.
When local farms are empowered, the entire ecosystem benefits. Communities grow stronger. Supply chains grow more resilient. And consumers enjoy food thatās fresher, safer, and closer to home.
At NRTC, the journey of fresh produce is more than logistics ā itās a story of collaboration, trust, and shared purpose, and is crucial to building a system that supports people, protects resources, and preserves freshness at every step.
NRTCās journey has been marked by steady growth, industry leadership, and a commitment to delivering excellence ā a journey made possible by the dedication of its workforce.
This Labour Day, recognition is given to those who operate at every level of the organization ā from sourcing to storage, and from dispatch to delivery ā ensuring that quality is preserved, systems run seamlessly, and customers are consistently served.
At NRTC, the workforce remains central to the fulfillment of the companyās vision for quality, reliability, and service leadership across the GCC and beyond. Their discipline, professionalism, and collaborative spirit not only uphold current standards but also lay the groundwork for innovation and resilience in an evolving market.
Every member of the NRTC team contributes to the foundation of sustained success at the company. Their ongoing commitment ensures that excellence is not simply achieved but continually redefined.
The future of fresh produce distribution will be shaped by those who show up every day with purpose and passion. On this Labour Day, NRTC acknowledges and honors the individuals who make that future possible.
At NRTC Fresh, the pursuit of quality is guided by data to ensure fulfilling the promise to customers that every product offered delivers exceptional flavor and premium quality.
From harvest to delivery, every fruit is carefully evaluated to ensure it meets the international quality standard of ripeness, sweetness, and delicious flavor our customers expect.
A key part of this evaluation process is Brix testing, which is a method used to measure the natural sugar content in fruit. Reported as a percentage, the Brix value serves as a reliable indicator of sweetness, ripeness, and overall flavor. This scientific approach allows NRTC to make objective decisions about what gets selected, packed, and delivered.
The testing process is simple but highly effective. A sample is placed into a digital refractometer, and within seconds, the sugar concentration is measured and displayed. This quick, repeatable method ensures consistency across all batches and removes subjectivity from the assessment process.
This practice is implemented at scale across our entire fruit handling and distribution network at NRTC Fresh. Itās more than just a quality check; itās a key differentiator that sets the companyās produce apart in the market. In an industry where appearance often takes precedence, NRTC prioritizes taste and eating quality ā ensuring customers receive produce that not only looks good, but also tastes exceptional.
Brix testing reflects NRTCās broader philosophy: to blend innovation with tradition, science with flavor, and data with care. Itās one of many ways it continues to lead in fresh produce standards across the region. Because at NRTC Fresh, every fruit matters, and every detail counts.
Sustainability is embedded in the operations of NRTC Fresh as a long-term commitment. In line with the UAEās national efforts to accelerate the transition to renewable energy, and taking inspiration from this yearās World Earth Day theme āOur Power, Our Planetā, NRTC is reiterating its dedication to take meaningful action against climate change.
At NRTC Fresh, every step of the fresh produce journey is guided by a responsibility to care for the environment and the communities that are served. Hereās how the work at NRTC Fresh is aligned with the UAEās bold sustainability goals:
National Food Security Strategy 2051 Food security is considered fundamental ā and a part is played by NRTC Fresh. Access to fresh, nutritious produce is ensured across the UAE year-round by strengthening ties with local farms and regional suppliers. Waste reduction and supply chain optimization are prioritized to support the nationās vision of a resilient, self-reliant food system.
Sustainable Agriculture Initiatives Sustainable farming is considered essential to achieving food security. To attain this, close partnerships with organic farms and forward-thinking agricultural partners are established by NRTC, with a shared commitment to responsible growing practices. Together, a more efficient, environmentally conscious, and long-lasting food system is being shaped.
Green Economy for Sustainable Development In line with the UAEās Green Economy for Sustainable Development initiative, sustainability is integrated into every layer of operations at NRTC. Increased digitalization and a shift toward eco-friendly packaging are being embraced to bring meaningful, practical changes. Efforts are being made to optimize logistics and refine daily processes, contributing to a more efficient, environmentally responsible business that supports both long-term growth and a greener future.
UAE Circular Economy Policy (2021) Less waste and more reuse is the mindset that drives packaging, operations, and food loss strategies at NRTC. Single-use plastics are being reduced, eco-friendly materials are being invested in, and steps are being taken to reduce waste across the entire value chain ā with circular economy goals being applied in everyday practice.
UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative Tangible steps are required for climate action, not just commitments. The UAEās Net Zero target is being pursued by NRTC through integrating renewable energy into operations, making upgrades to the logistics fleet, and closely monitoring carbon footprints.
UAE 2030 Agenda for Equal Employment & Opportunity Sustainability is not only about the environment ā it also encompasses people. NRTC commits to create an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to grow. Women are empowered across teams, and ethical labor standards are ensured, reflecting the values of equity and respect.
A Greener Tomorrow Starts Now
On World Earth Day, NRTC takes a moment to reflect, reaffirm its values, and embrace responsibility.
At NRTC, the pursuit of freshness must never come at natureās expense, and progress toward sustainability is recognized as a journey taken together.
Hand in hand, letās work towards a greener future for us all.
From farm to table, across borders and beyond. 50+ years of
excellence in fresh produce.
