- Coffee consumption across Gulf and North African markets is growing rapidly.
- The UAE coffee market now exceeds twelve billion dirhams in value.
- Saudi Arabia serves over thirty-six million cups of coffee every day.
- World of Coffee Dubai expands to twenty thousand square metres for 2026.
The aroma of freshly roasted beans is currently drifting across the region with more intensity than ever before. As the 31st edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival keeps the city buzzed, the specialty coffee scene is preparing for its own massive milestone. World of Coffee Dubai is set to return to the Dubai World Trade Centre from January 18 to 20, 2026. This fifth edition comes at a time when the Middle East has firmly established itself as one of the most dynamic and advanced coffee landscapes on the planet, moving far beyond traditional roots into a full blown lifestyle movement.
Modern consumers, particularly those under the age of 35 who make up more than 60 percent of the regional population, no longer view coffee as just a morning caffeine fix. Instead, it has become a central pillar of personal expression and social connection. This shift is particularly visible in the UAE, where an incredible 93 percent of coffee spending happens out of the home in vibrant, design led cafés. This trend addresses a major cultural desire for high end, experiential spaces where the quality of the brew matches the aesthetic of the environment.
The sheer scale of the regional transformation is reflected in several eye opening statistics and shifts:
- Market Value: The UAE coffee market has surged past AED 12 billion, making it a critical global player.
- Saudi Growth: With over 5,100 branded cafés, the Kingdom represents nearly half of the region’s total branded sector.
- African Expansion: Consumption in Egypt has doubled in five years, while Morocco sees double digit import growth.
- Infrastructure Focus: Dubai re-exported over AED 3.5 billion worth of coffee in 2024, supported by elite cupping laboratories.
This growth reflects a commitment to bold innovation across the entire value chain. From tech driven startups and independent roasteries to the rise of female led concepts, the ecosystem is evolving into a more sustainable and interconnected network. The third-wave movement is gaining massive momentum, fueled by a new generation of entrepreneurs who prioritize coffee origins and artisan techniques. World of Coffee Dubai 2026 will serve as the ultimate meeting point for this community, featuring coffee auctions, international championships, and workshops that showcase the latest advancements in brewing and roasting.
Whether you are a casual fan of a perfectly poured latte or a professional barista, the upcoming exhibition is where the future of the industry will be mapped out. As the region moves toward a more integrated framework, the influence of the Middle East on the global coffee trade is only getting stronger.
Take your coffee knowledge to a higher level by joining the world’s leading innovators this January. From rare bean auctions to advanced tech showcases, this is the ultimate destination for every coffee enthusiast. Shop now at the World of Coffee Dubai website to secure your early bird tickets today!
