Dubai’s status as a global hub for trade and food security took center stage as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum visited Gulfood 2026, one of the world’s largest annual food and beverage exhibitions. The high-profile tour highlighted the event’s record scale this year, with thousands of exhibitors and industry leaders gathering to shape the future of global food systems.
Walking through the expansive exhibition halls, Sheikh Mohammed met with international delegates, entrepreneurs, and innovators presenting cutting-edge products and technologies. From sustainable agriculture solutions and plant-based alternatives to advanced food logistics and smart supply chains, the showcase reflected the rapid transformation underway across the global food industry.
Gulfood has long been a key platform for connecting producers, suppliers, and buyers from across continents, and the 2026 edition has further expanded its reach. Participants from emerging and established markets alike are using the event to forge partnerships, sign trade deals, and explore new distribution channels. The strong presence of startups alongside multinational brands underscored the growing role of innovation in ensuring food resilience and sustainability.
Food security, a strategic priority for the UAE, featured prominently in discussions during the visit. The exhibition spotlighted solutions designed to address climate challenges, resource efficiency, and supply chain stability issues that have become increasingly urgent worldwide.
Sheikh Mohammed’s tour also emphasized Dubai’s role as a bridge between global markets. By hosting large-scale gatherings like Gulfood, the emirate continues to position itself as a meeting point for ideas, investment, and collaboration in the food sector.
As Gulfood 2026 unfolds, its record participation and forward-looking focus signal a pivotal moment for the future of how the world produces, distributes, and consumes food.
