Gulfood 2025 starts with 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries

The 30th edition of Gulfood, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade show, is set to be its most expansive yet, with first-time participation from Kosovo, Zambia, Mauritius, and Madagascar. Taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the event features over 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries, showcasing more than one million products across 24 halls and 1.3 million square feet of exhibition space.

This year’s theme, The Next Frontier in Food, focuses on the evolution of global food systems, sustainability, and cutting-edge innovation.

“Key discussions will centre on expanding international trade, adapting to shifting investment strategies, leveraging technology and artificial intelligence in supply chains, and tackling environmental challenges in agriculture,” says Mark Napier, VP - Portfolio Growth Food & Hospitality, Exhibitions Department, Dubai World Trade Centre.

For the first time, Gulfood will host the Food500 Summit, a high-profile gathering of CEOs, policymakers, government officials, and industry leaders.

“The summit will tackle pressing industry challenges such as international trade, investment strategies, technological advancements, and global food security, aiming to deliver actionable solutions for the future of the sector,” says Napier.

Adding a star-studded element to the event, Chef Alain Ducasse, one of the world’s most celebrated culinary figures, will make his debut at Gulfood Top Table, joined by an elite line-up of chefs boasting 50 Michelin stars collectively. This initiative will explore culinary futurism, highlighting groundbreaking techniques, ingredient innovation, and novel flavours.

Dubai’s top-rated restaurants will also be in the spotlight through the Dubai World Cuisine series, which features exclusive 4-, 6-, and 8-hands fine dining collaborations, including a special 8-hands experience with Alain Ducasse. Additionally, the Culinary Debate series will bring together industry experts to discuss sustainability, sourcing, and healthy eating trends.

Gulfood 2025 is introducing several firsts designed to enhance the experience for both industry professionals and food enthusiasts. One of the most exciting additions is Gulfood After Hours, an initiative that extends the event beyond the exhibition halls, allowing attendees to explore Dubai’s vibrant culinary scene. More than 40 partner restaurants across the city, including Bombay Borough, Carna, Filia, Joe’s Backyard, Black Tap, Tandoor Tina, and The Citronelle Club, will offer dining experiences to Gulfood visitors who present their event tickets.

Another highlight is the Innovation Awards, which will recognise industry pioneers who have redefined excellence in new product development. “From revolutionary ingredients to cutting-edge solutions, the awards provide a platform for firms to celebrate their advancements in shaping the industry’s next frontier,” Napier says.

Young culinary talent will also take centre stage at the YouthX Young Chef Challenge, now in its fourth edition. This year, the competition will focus on cutting-edge techniques and ingredient innovation, with young chefs battling for Dh100,000 in prizes and a coveted internship at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Europe.

Gulfood has been instrumental in positioning Dubai and the UAE as a global food hub, strengthening trade ties and advancing food security initiatives.

“Gulfood’s impact on global F&B trade has been profound, with the previous edition securing over $15 billion in trade deals,” says Napier.

The UAE’s dining landscape has also flourished, with Gulfood attracting top chefs and entrepreneurs to the region, leading to new restaurant openings and innovative dining concepts.

“The event has fueled regional investment and strengthened the competitiveness of the F&B sector, positioning the GCC as a strategic hub for global food brands and start-ups looking to enter or scale within the market,” says Napier.

From groundbreaking culinary showcases to exclusive networking opportunities, the 30th edition of Gulfood is set to offer an unparalleled experience – not just for industry professionals, but for anyone passionate about the future of food. Gulfood runs until February 21.