1. A Top International F&B Marketplace

Known for its fast-paced business environment and unparalleled global reach, Gulfood consistently delivers high-value connections — especially for producers aiming to enter or strengthen their presence in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. With more than 8500 exhibitors, 12 sectors and tens of thousands of verified buyers attending each year, no other event offers the same global exposure. Whether you produce packaged foods, beverages, dairy, meat, plant-based products, or specialty items, Gulfood puts you in front of professionals actively looking for new suppliers.

For the first time, Gulfood will take place across both the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai — a major expansion that elevates the scale and impact of the global food trade event.

The show will feature an expanded mix of high-value sectors – from Meat, Poultry & Seafood to Dairy, Beverages, Pulses, Grains & Cereals and more – giving you deeper insights, sharper sourcing options and real opportunities to grow your business.

Gulfood 2026 is also packed with new sectors like Gulfood Logistics, Fresh Produce, Seafood, Grocery Trade and Startups. This is where disruptors, new technologies and breakthrough products make their debut, opening up access to new possibilities and partnerships.  

Because freshness and reliability drive the produce market, navigating supplier relationships can quickly become complex. The new Gulfood Fresh sector for example aims to offer a smarter solution: direct access to dependable exporters, a streamlined supply chain, and steady availability of premium produce all year round.

Another popular sector, the Beverage sector at Gulfood 2026 returns bigger than ever, with an expanded footprint, broader product diversity, and unparalleled global participation. It stands as the premier marketplace for anyone serious about growth in the beverage industry. Here, the entire beverage ecosystem comes together. From bottled water, juices, energy drinks, and dairy alternatives to specialty coffee, tea, and craft beverages, this is where brands, innovators, and solution providers connect. Visitors can discover next-generation formulations, AI-driven production technologies, smart packaging advancements, and fast-emerging global trends.

Gulfood 2026 delivers a front-row look at how innovation, wellness, and sustainability are reshaping the beverage category. It’s an opportunity no industry professional should miss

2. High-Quality Buyers Ready to Do Business

Gulfood’s reputation for facilitating real, on-the-spot deals makes it one of the most commercially focused trade shows in the industry. Expect to meet importers and distributors, retail and supermarket chains, HoReCa buyers (hotels, restaurants, catering),  private label sourcing managers.

3. Insights Into F&B Trends That Matter

From sustainability and alternative proteins to beverage innovation and premium convenience foods, Gulfood 2026 will again highlight the key trends shaping global consumption. With 1.2 million+ products on display from across the entire F&B chain, you can explore everything from essential ingredients to cutting-edge innovations – a huge advantage for first-timers looking to understand what’s next in global food and trade.

4. Visibility in a Rapidly Growing Region

The MENA region is one of the fastest-expanding F&B markets in the world. Exhibiting here boosts credibility and opens the door to long-term partnerships in a thriving import-driven area.

How BestFoodImporters Helps You Succeed at Gulfood 2026

Attending a major trade fair is a significant investment — and preparation is what separates successful exhibitors from those who leave opportunities on the table. BestFoodImporters provides powerful tools to help producers turn Gulfood into measurable commercial gains.

1. Identify and Contact Importers Before the Event

Instead of waiting for visitors to come to your stand, proactively reach out to:

• Food and beverage importers

• Distributors

• Retail groups

• Specialized wholesalers

With verified contact details and updated profiles, you can schedule meetings in advance and ensure that your calendar is full from day one.

2. Follow Up Efficiently After Gulfood

Most deals happen after the fair — but only for companies that follow up quickly and professionally. With structured importer lists, notes, and saved leads, you can organize your outreach and maintain momentum.

3. Stay Ahead With Updated Market Opportunities

The platform helps you:

• Track registered food importers and distributors

• Understand what types of products they source

• Adapt your offerings to their needs

This ensures your Gulfood strategy aligns with real-time market demand.

Tips for Exhibitors: Make the Most Out of Gulfood 2026

Prepare a Clear Value Proposition

Buyers visit hundreds of stands — make sure your message is simple, focused, and immediately understandable.

Highlight Certifications and Compliance

Halal certification, sustainability labels, traceability, and quality marks can significantly boost your product’s appeal in the region.

Use Samples and Live Demonstrations

Tastings and product demos remain one of the most effective ways to capture attention at Gulfood.

Plan Your Follow-Up Strategy Before You Arrive

Set up templates, collect contacts efficiently, and log conversations in real time.

See You at Gulfood 2026!

Gulfood 2026 promises to be one of the most important global F&B events of the year. With the right preparation — and the support of BestFoodImporters — food producers can transform this exhibition into a powerful growth opportunity.

If you’re planning to exhibit or attend and want to maximize your results, our team is ready to help you identify the right partners and expand your international reach.

Start preparing today — and make Gulfood 2026 your most successful trade show yet.