• Gulfood 2026 expanded to two venues, doubling its size and impact.
  • New sectors and integrated events reshaped the global F&B landscape.
  • Exhibitors welcomed the expansion, citing better visibility and networking.
  • Dubai ensured seamless logistics for a world-class mega-event experience.

The world’s largest F&B event, Gulfood 2025, left a lasting impact, paving the way for a game-changing 2026 edition. Following the announcement of its expansion across two major venues—Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Dubai Expo City (DEC)—interest from global industry leaders surged, solidifying Gulfood’s position as the epicenter of international food trade. The expansion, set to take place from January 26-30, 2026, promised to double the event’s size, catering to record-breaking demand while transforming the platform into an unparalleled food innovation and business hub.

With the addition of Dubai Expo City—a site that hosted Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28—Gulfood 2026 was designed to enhance accessibility and provide more space for exhibitors. The expansion aimed to diversify sectors, introduce fresh innovations, and maximize networking opportunities. By separating exhibitors across two venues, the event streamlined navigation for visitors and ensured greater exposure for brands, a move welcomed by industry leaders.

“After the announcement of 2026, we immediately booked our stands for the next two years. Splitting locations will help target consumers find and connect with us more effectively,” said Bhushant Ghandi, Division Manager at Trubell.

Gulfood 2026 positioned itself as the first major F&B event of the year, offering exhibitors early access to market trends, new product launches, and a platform for disruptive innovation. The expansion allowed a broader mix of leading brands and first-time exhibitors to showcase their offerings to a global audience.

The event’s impact extended to international players looking to scale their businesses. “With the progress we’ve made in the region, Gulfood 2026 will be a strategic launchpad for the Spanish meat sector,” shared Jordi Montfort, Secretary General of the Spanish Poultry and Meat Association.

For Stallion Commodities (India) Pvt LTD, Gulfood 2025 already generated over 500 business leads, setting high expectations for the upcoming edition. “The expansion will make it easier to distinguish market segments and navigate the space efficiently,” added Anand Bhesdadiya, Director.

With new sectors such as Digital Innovation, Startups, Logistics, Fresh & Perishables, Health & Wellness, Next-Gen Food & Beverages, HoReCa, and Foodservice Innovation, the 2026 edition redefined the landscape of the global food industry. Additionally, established categories like Power Brands, Pulses & Grains, Fats & Oils, Meat & Poultry, Beverages, World Food, and Dairy remained integral to the event.

Gulfood also integrated several specialized events into its format, including:

  • Gulfood Green, fostering sustainable food solutions and waste reduction strategies.
  • Gulfood Startups, connecting entrepreneurs with investors and accelerators.
  • GulfHost, MENA’s premier hospitality and foodservice equipment event.
  • Gulfood Logistics, unveiling cutting-edge solutions for supply chain and cold storage.

With Dubai hosting thousands of visitors across two venues, meticulous planning ensured a smooth, well-coordinated experience, covering transportation, accommodation, parking, and accessibility. The event reinforced Dubai’s reputation as a global leader in hosting mega-events, offering exhibitors and attendees an unmatched business and networking environment.

The overwhelming response to Gulfood 2026 proved that the global food industry was ready for an even bigger, more dynamic platform—one that would shape the future of F&B innovation and trade.

For more details, visit www.gulfood.com.