The world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing exhibition, Gulfood 2026, officially opened on 26 January in Dubai, setting a new benchmark with its landmark 31st edition. Running until 30 January 2026, the mega event is being held across two major venues for the first time — the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai — underlining its expanding global stature.
This year, Gulfood 2026 has nearly doubled in size, hosting over 8,500 exhibitors from 195 countries across more than 280,000 square metres of exhibition space. The dual-venue format reflects the event’s rapid growth and reinforces Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for international trade and business in the food and beverage sector.
India Makes Historic Debut as Partner Country
A major highlight of Gulfood 2026 is India’s first-ever participation as the Partner Country. India’s presence is spearheaded by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The Indian Pavilion, spanning 1,434 square metres, was inaugurated by Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, alongside Deepak Mittal, Ambassador of India to the UAE. The pavilion showcases 161 exhibitors from 25 Indian states and regions, featuring exporters, farmer-producer organisations (FPOs), cooperatives, startups, and government bodies.
The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) is also participating with 11 exhibitors, primarily highlighting basmati rice and cereal-based products, strengthening India’s agri-export visibility on the global stage.
Boost to Agri-Food Trade and Investment
India’s prominent role at Gulfood 2026 underscores its growing influence in global agri-food trade and the deepening economic partnership between India and the UAE, especially following the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and Invest India is attending the event to promote investment opportunities in food processing, value-added agriculture, and allied sectors, positioning India as a preferred sourcing and investment destination.
Global Platform for Food Innovation
With participation from nearly every major food-producing nation, Gulfood 2026 continues to act as a strategic platform for global food trade, innovation, networking, and international collaboration. As the exhibition runs through 30 January, it is expected to generate significant trade deals, partnerships, and policy dialogues shaping the future of the global food and beverage industry.
