The global food industry is entering a new era. Gulfood 2026 Dubai, the 31st edition of the world’s premier F&B sourcing event, is set to be the largest and most transformative in its history. Taking place from January 26 to 30, 2026, the show is responding to unprecedented global demand by expanding across two massive hubs: the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the newly expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai.
With over 8,500 exhibitors from 195 countries and a staggering 1.5 million products on display, Gulfood 2026 is no longer just a trade show—it is the global headquarters of the $12 trillion food economy.
The “One Edition, Two Venues” Strategy
For the first time, Gulfood will run at full scale across two distinct locations, connected by a seamless logistics network. This expansion provides 100% more floor space, allowing for deeper sector specialization.
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC): The Commercial Heart
The DWTC will remain the core for traditional high-growth sectors and global “Power Brands.” If you are looking for market leaders in mass production and established supply chains, this is your primary destination.
- Sectors: Beverages, Dairy, Fats & Oils, Meat & Poultry, and Seafood.
- New for 2026: The Gulfood Startups pavilion will move to DWTC, highlighting the explosive growth of F&B entrepreneurship.
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Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City: The Innovation Hub
The DEC will host the “Future of Food,” focusing on sustainability, technology, and bulk commodities.
- Sectors: World Food, Rice, Pulses & Grains, and the Extended National Pavilions.
- New Sectors: Gulfood Fresh (perishables), Gulfood Grocery Trade, and Gulfood Logistics.
Gulfood 2026: A Deep Dive into AI and Innovation
A major highlight of the 2026 edition is the premiere of Gulfood.AI. In partnership with GITEX Global, this vertical is designed to re-engineer the industry through digital intelligence.
1. Smart Food Intelligence The Innovation Tech Hub will showcase how AI is optimizing nutrition, reducing batch failures through computer vision, and compressing product development cycles from months to weeks.
2. The Gulfood NXT Stage This is where the “FoodTech 500” will be revealed—the startups redefining global supply chains. Topics will include precision fermentation, cellular agriculture, and the role of the Metaverse in factory management.
3. Sustainable Supply Chains With the launch of Gulfood Logistics, the event tackles the critical challenge of the “cold chain.” From AI-powered routing to blockchain traceability, the focus is on reducing the 1.3 billion tons of food wasted each year globally.
India: The Official Country Partner for 2026
Reflecting its status as the world’s most dynamic food production economy, India has been named the Official Country Partner for Gulfood 2026. With over 600 exhibitors, the Indian pavilion will be its largest-ever presence, showcasing everything from traditional spices to high-tech packaged goods.
Event Logistics: Dates, Timings, and Travel
To ensure a smooth experience across the two venues, the organizers have implemented a comprehensive citywide mobility plan.
Registration and Tickets
Gulfood is a trade-only event and not open to the general public.
- Early Bird Tickets: Start at approximately AED 300 (limited availability).
- On-site Registration: Generally higher; online pre-registration is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
- Official Website: www.gulfood.com
