Dubai becomes the global headquarters of food trade as Gulfood 2026 delivers 100% more scale, suppliers, business and innovation

 

 

DUBAI – December 10, 2025: The global food and beverage industry is entering a defining era of change, powered by the convergence of health, technology, sustainability, transparent sourcing and AI-enabled performance. With the global food & beverages market projected to hit $11.37 trillion by 2030, combined with the MENA region recording the world's fastest F&B growth rate businesses are seeking platforms that provide scale, intelligence and cross-border opportunity.

 

At the centre of this momentum stands Dubai, one of the world's most connected trade hubs and a powerhouse for logistics, innovation and future-driven food systems. Against this backdrop, Gulfood 2026 emerges as the first and biggest sourcing event of the year, expanding across two mega-venues and opening a limitless landscape of opportunity, discovery and participation for the entire global food universe.

 

Gulfood 2026 will accelerate outsized scale to seize macro-trend advantage, with 8,500+ exhibitors, 1.5 million+ products and participation from 195 countries. The 31st edition is set to transform Dubai into the global headquarters of a connected, intelligent food economy. It will host multiple strategic Government and industry alliances including Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) India, Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil), Business France, Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, Dubai Holding, ICEX Spain Trade and Investment, Meat & Livestock Australia, National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA) Kingdom of Saudi Arabia along with major industry powerhouses Americana, Barakat, BRF, Camelicious, Fresh Del Monte, Fage, JBS, Maersk, Monin and Oatly, as well as investors, unicorns and a dynamic mix of buyers, distributors, wholesalers and innovative startups poised to scale into global brands.

 

Mark Napier, Vice President Exhibitions Department, Dubai World Trade Centre, stated: 'Gulfood 2026 opens the global F&B calendar as the first and most influential sourcing event of the year setting the industry's strategic direction. As the first major international event to activate the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai and Dubai World Trade Centre, we are delivering unprecedented scale and visibility. Expanding its reach across five new sectors, Gulfood becomes the only truly complete platform for the entire food and beverage ecosystem. An unmissable destination for every brand serious about growth, innovation and global market access. We look forward to welcoming forward-thinking partners, igniting a new era for the industry.'