Sheikh Mohammed tours Gulfood 2026 as event marks largest expansion in its history

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, toured the 31st edition of Gulfood, the world’s largest and most influential food and beverage sourcing and innovation event, currently being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

The visit comes as Gulfood records its largest expansion to date, bringing together more than 8,500 exhibitors from approximately 195 countries and showcasing over 1.5 million food and beverage products spanning the entire sector value chain. The scale and diversity of participation reinforce Gulfood’s long-standing role as a global platform connecting producers, innovators, and international markets, while serving as a key meeting point for the global food ecosystem and supply chain.

Running until 30 January, Gulfood 2026 is being hosted across two major venues simultaneously, the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai, underscoring the event’s growing global stature and reach.

During the tour, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to supporting the development of the global food sector by fostering an integrated environment that encourages innovation, the adoption of advanced technologies, and improved efficiency across production and trade. He highlighted the importance of strengthening the resilience and sustainability of global food systems, particularly in the face of evolving economic and environmental challenges.

Sheikh Mohammed noted that the strong international participation at Gulfood reflects global confidence in Dubai as an international business hub and a preferred destination for major industry exhibitions. He added that the event further reinforces Dubai’s role in connecting global markets, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and supporting a sector that contributes significantly to global economic growth.

The visit was accompanied by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance of the UAE; Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Together, they toured a number of participating country and company pavilions, where Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the latest food products, innovative solutions, and advanced technologies shaping the future of the food industry. He also received briefings from exhibitors on emerging global trends, the growing role of innovation in enhancing supply chain efficiency, and the evolving demands of international markets.

Gulfood 2026 continues to serve as a vital global platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and business growth, reflecting Dubai’s strategic vision to play a leading role in shaping the future of the global food and beverage sector.