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Gulfood 2026: The World’s Biggest Food Show Just Got Bigger

28 February 2025 by
jarry smith

The global food and beverage (F&B) industry is set to witness a monumental event in 2026 as Gulfood, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade show, expands to not one, but two mega venues in Dubai. The 30th edition of Gulfood, held in 2025, was a resounding success, but the 2026 edition promises to be even bigger, better, and more impactful. With the addition of Dubai Expo City as a second venue, Gulfood 2026 is poised to redefine the future of the global food industry. Apply for your Dubai visa today and immerse yourself in the future of the global food industry!

A Milestone Edition: Gulfood 2025 Recap

The 30th edition of Gulfood was a landmark event that brought together over 100,000 industry professionals, innovators, and decision-makers from across the globe. The five-day event showcased cutting-edge innovations, fostered groundbreaking collaborations, and set the stage for the future of the F&B industry. From futuristic cooking techniques to sustainable food solutions, Gulfood 2025 was a melting pot of ideas, trends, and opportunities.

The ripple effects of this mega event are still being felt as new business deals come to life, innovative products hit the shelves, and industry progress accelerates. But as the dust settles on Gulfood 2025, the focus now shifts to the next edition, which promises to be the most ambitious yet.

Gulfood 2026: Bigger, Better, and More Impactful

From 26th to 30th January 2026, Gulfood will take place across two iconic venues in Dubai:

  • Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
  • Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City

This twin-venue approach will provide unprecedented capacity to accommodate the growing demand for space, exhibitors, and visitors. With double the size comes double the opportunity, making Gulfood 2026 the ultimate destination for F&B professionals worldwide.

Why Gulfood 2026 is a Must-Attend Event

  1. Future-Ready & Future-Focused
    Gulfood 2026 will showcase a broader array of products and services, enabling deeper exploration of emerging trends and innovations. From disruptors to established brands, the event will set the global agenda for the industry’s future.
  2. Unrivalled Networking & Thought Leadership
    With an expanded venue comes an even more dynamic lineup of conferences, expert panels, and networking events. Connect with industry pioneers, decision-makers, and thought leaders shaping the future of food.
  3. Two Mega Venues, One Unified Experience
    Both DWTC and DEC offer state-of-the-art facilities and are conveniently located near a plethora of hotels, ranging from 5-star luxury to budget-friendly options. Attendees can also explore Dubai’s world-class dining scene and iconic attractions.
  4. A Global Marketplace for the Future
    Gulfood 2026 will generate stratospheric trade volumes and phenomenal transactions, delivering record-breaking business opportunities in the global F&B universe.
  5. New Sectors, More Innovation, and Growth
    The expansion of Gulfood 2026 will introduce new sectors, including:
    • Gulfood Logistics
    • Gulfood Green
    • Gulfood Innovation Tech Hub
    • Gulfood Startups
  6. These sectors will offer tremendous value to participants, expanding the food trade and innovation ecosystem necessary to boost the advancement of the global food industry.

Dubai Expo City: A Premier International Business Hub

Dubai Expo City, the host of both Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28, is on course to become a premier international business district. The AED10 billion expansion masterplan, approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will transform the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) into the region’s largest indoor events venue.

The expanded DEC will serve as the new home for mega exhibitions, allowing Dubai to double the number of large-scale events hosted annually by 2033. This reinforces Dubai’s status as a leading hub for international exhibitions and business events.

Relive the Best Moments of Gulfood 2025

Gulfood 2025 was a celebration of innovation, inspiration, and collaboration. Highlights included:

  • The Food500 Summit: A landmark event that brought together the brightest minds to discuss international trade, sustainability, and global food security.
  • Top Table 2025: A culinary extravaganza featuring 21 Michelin-starred chefs, including the legendary Alain Ducasse.
  • YouthX Young Chef Challenge: A platform for emerging talent, with the winning team securing an exclusive internship at Spain’s Aponiente.
  • Gulfood Innovation Awards: Celebrating groundbreaking products and innovations shaping the future of the F&B industry.

What to Expect at Gulfood 2026

Gulfood 2026 will build on the success of previous editions, offering:

  • More Exhibitors and Buyers: Access to an even larger showcase of international suppliers, partners, and industry leaders.
  • Cutting-Edge Innovations: Discover the latest trends and technologies driving the F&B industry forward.
  • Sustainability Focus: Explore solutions for building a more accessible, affordable, healthy, and sustainable global food economy.
  • Immersive Experiences: From masterclasses to discovery tours, Gulfood 2026 will offer hands-on experiences that inspire and educate.

Book Your Stand or Register Your Interest

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of the world’s biggest food show. Whether you’re an exhibitor or a visitor, Gulfood 2026 is the place to be for anyone involved in the F&B industry.

  • Book Your Stand: Secure your spot at Gulfood 2026 and showcase your products and services to a global audience.
  • Register Your Interest to Visit: Be the first to know about event updates, exhibitor lists, and exclusive opportunities.

Conclusion

Gulfood 2026 is more than just an event; it’s a movement that will shape the future of the global food industry. With two mega venues, new sectors, and unparalleled networking opportunities, Gulfood 2026 is set to be the most impactful edition yet. Mark your calendars and join us in Dubai for an unforgettable experience that will redefine the way we think about food.

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