Nestlé opens Sparks innovation centre at Expo City Dubai to accelerate AI-driven solutions
Nestlé opens Sparks innovation centre at Expo City Dubai to fast-track AI-driven product development and deepen public-private collaboration in the UAE.
Nestlé inaugurates Sparks innovation centre at Expo City Dubai
Nestlé has officially opened the Sparks innovation centre at its new headquarters in Expo City Dubai, unveiling a facility dedicated to accelerating product development through artificial intelligence. The centre is designed to foster collaboration between startups, universities, technology partners and government entities. The launch was attended by senior UAE officials and Nestlé executives, signalling strong public-private support for the initiative.
Senior UAE leaders and Nestlé executives attend opening
The opening drew notable figures including Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai, alongside Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism. Najeeb Mohamed Al Ali, Chief Executive of Expo City Dubai Authority, joined Yasser Abdulmalik, Chair and CEO of Nestlé Middle East and North Africa, and other senior leaders from Expo City and Nestlé. Officials highlighted the centre as a strategic addition to the UAE’s innovation ecosystem.
Government frames the centre as part of economic diversification
UAE ministers framed the Sparks innovation centre as consistent with national priorities to diversify the economy and attract high-quality investment. Abdullah bin Touq said enabling an innovation ecosystem and deploying advanced technologies are foundational to developing new economic sectors. Officials emphasised that hosting global corporate innovation hubs reinforces investor confidence in the UAE’s infrastructure and regulatory environment.
Sparks model emphasises open collaboration and market-driven solutions
The Sparks innovation centre will operate on a collaborative model, bringing together startups, academic institutions, technology vendors and government stakeholders to co-develop solutions that respond to consumer needs. Workstreams will combine AI, data analytics and other advanced technologies with direct market insight from Nestlé’s consumer research. The aim is to shorten development cycles for products and services while ensuring they align with regional preferences and sustainability goals.
Focus on AI, data and supply chain resilience
A core focus of the centre is the application of artificial intelligence and data to improve product design, packaging, and supply chain efficiency. Nestlé plans to use machine learning and advanced analytics to accelerate ideation and testing phases, and to enhance the sustainability and resilience of distribution networks. Officials said these capabilities will support the UAE’s readiness to adapt to global shifts in demand and to strengthen domestic supply chains.
Investments and infrastructure cited as drivers of confidence
Speakers at the inauguration pointed to the UAE’s advanced infrastructure, flexible regulations and competitive business environment as reasons international companies continue to establish local innovation hubs. The presence of Sparks is seen as reaffirming the country’s strategy to partner closely with the private sector on vital industries and technology development. Organisers said the centre will help deepen sector-specific expertise and generate downstream economic opportunities for local firms.
Opportunities for startups and academic partnerships
Sparks will offer a platform for startups to pilot technologies and collaborate with Nestlé’s product and market teams, while universities can contribute research and talent. The centre’s structure aims to create an ecosystem where prototypes can move rapidly from concept to consumer testing. Representatives said the model will provide participating partners with access to proprietary data, technical mentorship and regional market channels.
Linking sustainability goals with innovation projects
Nestlé and Expo City Dubai framed the centre within broader sustainability and responsible innovation agendas. Projects developed at Sparks are expected to prioritise efficient resource use, reduced waste and improved lifecycle assessments for products. The partnership aligns with ongoing government efforts to integrate sustainability principles across industrial and consumer sectors.
The Sparks innovation centre at Expo City Dubai represents a concentrated effort by Nestlé and UAE authorities to harness AI and open collaboration for faster product development, supply chain improvements and strategic investment attraction. The centre will begin hosting joint projects and partnership programmes immediately, with organisers indicating additional public and private collaborations are planned in the coming months.
