Gulfood 2025: Everything You Need to Know About the World’s Biggest Annual F&B Event

 

Gulfood 2025 is set to mark a historic 30th edition of the world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing event. Scheduled to run from 17–21 February 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this monumental trade fair will gather global F&B players, top distributors, renowned chefs, government delegations, and emerging start-ups under one roof for five days of product launches, groundbreaking technology, and multi-billion-dollar trade deals. Whether you’re a food entrepreneur, importer, exporter, or culinary professional, Gulfood 2025 is the must-attend platform to showcase products, forge partnerships, and stay at the forefront of food industry trends.
 

 

1. Event Overview and Key Facts

 

• Dates: 17–21 February 2025
• Location: Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), United Arab Emirates
• Scale: The largest edition to date, spanning 24 halls and over 1.3 million square feet
• Exhibitors: 5,500+ companies from 129 countries, including major national pavilions (USA, France, UK, Brazil, India, Singapore, Japan, Australia) plus first-time exhibitors from Kosovo, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Zambia
• Visitors: Over 100,000 professionals and trade buyers are expected, representing more than 190 nations
• Trade Volume: Estimated at USD 20 billion in deals—equivalent to 1% of global F&B trade
• Products Featured: Over 1 million items, covering 8 main segments—Meat & Poultry, Dairy, Beverages, Fats & Oil, Pulses & Grains, World Food, Power Brands, and more
   

Why This 30th Edition Is Special

Organized by the Dubai World Trade Centre, Gulfood 2025 revolves around the theme “The Next Frontier in Food,” exploring future trends in sustainability, food security, and global distribution. In addition to the massive exhibition, participants can attend conferences like Food500 Summit or sample gastronomic creations at Top Table featuring world-class chefs. This edition will celebrate Gulfood’s decades-long role in uniting global F&B professionals and shaping the world’s food systems.

 

2. Who Should Attend Gulfood 2025

A. Trade Visitors

• Retail & Hospitality: Buyers from supermarkets, hotel chains, and specialty grocers seeking new brands, flavors, and supply deals
• Distributors & Wholesalers: Professionals looking to meet direct suppliers and expand product portfolios
• Caterers & Chefs: Culinary experts interested in the latest food innovations, equipment, and fresh ingredient sourcing
• Nutritionists, Regulators & Media: Analysts, government officials, and journalists who track developments in global nutrition and food policy
• Investors & Entrepreneurs: Food-tech innovators, start-up founders, and VCs scouting cutting-edge solutions
  
   

B. Exhibitors

• Food Manufacturers: From large multinationals to emerging artisanal producers
• Equipment & Packaging Providers: Machinery suppliers, packaging technology developers, and catering equipment specialists
• National Pavilions: Government-endorsed country stands from Brazil, UK, India, Singapore, the United States, etc.
• Ingredient Suppliers: Producers of spices, grains, healthy additives, and other raw materials
   

Exhibitors showcase meat & poultry, dairy, beverages, processed foods, cereals, coffee, farm produce, gourmet items, and a wide array of F&B technology. Visitors can find everything from free-from and health-food solutions to convenience, ready-to-eat products.
 

3. Show Highlights and Special Features
 

1. Food500 Summit
   • A brand-new global CEO summit inviting top executives, investors, academics, trade officials, and more to discuss key strategies for shaping international food commerce.
   • Topics include food security, investment opportunities, sustainability, AI & digital transformation, and global trade policies.
      
2. Top Table: “Culinary Futurism”
   • The region’s largest live culinary showcase featuring Alain Ducasse (21 Michelin stars) for his first-ever Middle Eastern stage appearance, plus famous chefs Romain Meder, Ana Roš, Ángel León, Fredrik Berselius, and more.
   • Dubai World Cuisine dinners pair local chefs with global icons to highlight new flavors and gastronomic innovation.
      
3. YouthX and Innovation Awards
   • YouthX Young Chef Challenge: A platform for emerging talent to showcase skills and creativity, encouraging the next generation of culinary professionals.
   • Gulfood Innovation Awards: Celebrating companies leading in product design, sustainability, packaging, and flavor profiles.
      
4. Gulfood Discovery Tours
   • Curated tours (e.g., “Alternative Proteins & Plant-Based,” “Gourmet & Specialty,” “Digitalisation & Traceability”) guide visitors to targeted exhibitor zones, revealing cutting-edge trends and solutions.
      
5. Inaugural Food500
   • Bringing together Heads of State, policy-makers, major brand CEOs, trade associations, and non-governmental organizations.
   • A platform to debate the future shape of global food systems, with confirmed speakers such as ministers, WTO representatives, and the World Bank’s Food Systems division.
      
6. City-Wide Dining Events
   • Dubai World Cuisine: Exclusive four- and six-hands dinners at top restaurants in Dubai, offering unique collaborations between local and international culinary stars.

4. Key Industry Sectors at Gulfood 2025
 

1. Beverages: Juices, soft drinks, tea, coffee, energy drinks, water
2. Meat & Poultry: Fresh, chilled, and processed products, including gourmet and Halal offerings
3. Dairy: Milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, ice cream, lactose-free variants
4. Fats & Oil: Cooking oils, margarine, spreads, healthy oils like olive, avocado, and coconut
5. Pulses & Grains: Rice, wheat, barley, legumes, organic cereals
6. World Food: Diverse ethnic cuisines from Asia, Europe, Africa, Middle East, and the Americas
7. Power Brands: Leading multinational FMCG companies showcasing their flagship lines
8. Health, Wellness & Free-From: Gluten-free, vegan, plant-based, functional foods, low-sugar, and nutritionally enhanced products

From packaging innovations to e-commerce logistics, Gulfood covers every node in the F&B value chain.

 

5. Dates, Timings, and Venue Details
 

• Dates: 17–21 February 2025 (Monday to Friday)
• Visitor Opening Hours:
  • 17 Feb: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • 18 Feb: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • 19 Feb: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • 20 Feb: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • 21 Feb: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location:
Dubai World Trade Centre
Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade Centre - Trade Centre 2
Dubai - United Arab Emirates
 

Hotel & Accommodation Note: Major booking agencies like ExpoBeds can help you secure hotels near the venue. Early planning is advised since Gulfood draws over 90,000 visitors.

6. Registration and Participation Fees

A. Visitor Tickets

• AED 495 for a 5-day pass (limited-time offer; standard rate AED 695).
• Registration can be done via the official Gulfood website.

B. Exhibitor Booth Packages (via SUSTA Sponsorship for US-based exporters)

• 6m² in-line booth: USD 7,589 (Early Bird: USD 7,389 if paid by August 29, 2024)
• 9m² in-line booth: USD 11,123 (Early Bird: USD 10,923 if paid by August 29, 2024)
• 9m² corner booth: USD 11,828 (Early Bird: USD 11,628 if paid by August 29, 2024)

Fee Includes:

• One-on-one meetings at the trade show
• Up to USD 500 reimbursement for sample shipping costs (with documentation)
• Registration Deadline: 13 September 2024 (No refunds for cancellations after this date)
  
   

7. Why Gulfood Is Good for Business
 

1. Global Visibility
   • Access 100,000+ high-profile buyers, importers, distributors, hotel chains, and retailers from over 190 countries.
   • Secure media coverage and brand recognition in the heart of the Middle East’s thriving F&B market.
      
2. Direct Deal Making
   • With an estimated USD 20 billion in trade deals expected, Gulfood is where business truly happens—1% of global F&B trade flows through this event.
      
3. Network With Game-Changers
   • Engage with CEOs, VPs, procurement heads, executive chefs, innovators, and government bodies.
   • Form partnerships across supply chains, from farm to fork.
      
4. Stay Ahead of the Curve
   • Discover the latest trends in plant-based, clean label, functional foods, e-commerce, automation, and supply chain solutions.
   • Attend curated Discovery Tours to remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
      

8. Sectoral Overviews and Emerging Markets
 

Middle East, India & Africa (MEIA)

• A combined region with 2+ billion population, experiencing rapid economic development, urbanization, and tech adoption.
• Gulfood acts as a prime gateway for companies to tap into these growing markets, each with unique consumer needs and regulatory contexts.
   

US Market

• The US is a top Pavilion with strong presence from big brand exporters. The country’s robust spending power meets demand for specialty, organic, and Halal-certified lines.
   

Europe & Latin America

• European buyers look for niche, free-from, and organic items. Latin American exporters (Brazil, Argentina, Peru) see Gulfood as crucial to expand their premium product offerings in the Middle East.
   

Africa

• Africa is projected to import 120% more food by 2025. African exporters (Nigeria, Tanzania, etc.) are also modernizing local production for global markets. Gulfood fosters these bridging opportunities.
   

9. Future Plans: Gulfood 2026 Twin-Venue Expansion
 

Recent announcements highlight that the 2026 edition of Gulfood will expand to two venues—the traditional Dubai World Trade Centre plus Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai. This twin-venue format reflects surging global demand and aims to accommodate more sectors, exhibitors, and innovations.
 

Key Points About Gulfood 2026:

• Scheduled for January 26–30, 2026
• Follows major expansions in DEC, as per HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s US$2.75 billion plan
• Additional capacity opens up new halls for specialized categories and industry verticals

10. Building Your Exhibit: Booth Constructor and Logistics
 

Companies seeking a standout booth can turn to official stand-building and design agencies specialized in the Dubai region, like Booth Constructor, known for:

 

• Customized Solutions: Tailored exhibits that reflect brand identity
• Full-Service Approach: From design concepts to on-site installation
• Global Experience: Expertise in multi-market, large-scale trade shows
• Guaranteed Quality: Deploying skilled craftspeople and advanced materials to meet DWTC guidelines
   

For shipping, storage, and sample logistics, many exhibitors utilize recommended freight forwarders or Gulfood’s official shipping partners. If you’re a SUSTA participant, you can be reimbursed up to USD 500 for sample shipping, given proper documentation.
 

11. Additional & Complementary Updates and Information
 

Below are further details from the source content that have not been explicitly elaborated:
 

1. Dubai World Trade Centre Legacy
   • Since 1987, Gulfood has grown in synergy with Dubai’s evolution into a global F&B hub, fueling innovation and forging new distribution pathways.
      
2. Tickets, Registration & Pricing
   • Tickets are currently at a limited-time discount from AED 695 to AED 495 for a 5-day pass.
   • Larger exhibitors can benefit from early-bird specials on booth costs if paid by 29 August 2024 (savings range from USD 200–400).
      
3. Exhibition Hall Zones
   • The show floor is compartmentalized into sector-based zones—Beverages, Meat & Poultry, Dairy, Fats & Oils, Pulses & Cereals, World Food, etc.—for easy navigation and targeted lead generation.
      
4. YouthX Young Chef Challenge
   • A dedicated initiative to nurture and celebrate emerging chefs under 25, awarding scholarship opportunities and mentorship sessions with top culinary icons.
      
5. Gulfood Inspire & Gulfood Inspire Conference
   • Running parallel to the main show, these knowledge-sharing platforms feature experts discussing futuristic food licensing, new technology adoption, foreign market entry strategies, and social media best practices.
      
6. Sustainability Focus
   • With climate challenges posing a threat to global agriculture, expect sessions on sustainable packaging, carbon footprint reduction, and circular economy solutions.
      
7. Networking Tools
   • The official Gulfood App will host a matchmaking service, allowing participants to schedule meetings with top buyers, importers, or media representatives in advance.
      
8. Impact on Local Economy and Tourism
   • Each year, Gulfood significantly boosts Dubai’s hospitality and tourism sectors, generating increased hotel occupancy, dining reservations, and local trade.
      
9. Look Ahead to 2030
   • High-level discussions around the UAE’s “We the Future 2030” plan, focusing on forging deeper strategic alliances across Asia, Africa, and the Americas for assured food security.

 

Conclusion
 

Gulfood 2025 promises to be bigger and bolder than any of its past 29 editions, with unprecedented exhibitor turnout, a powerhouse line-up of international chefs, and specialized events like the Food500 Summit to address the future of F&B. The show’s scale makes it the prime global meeting point for forging deals, discovering emerging trends, and championing innovations in sustainable, health-centric, and culturally diverse food offerings.
 

Whether you’re a first-time exhibitor aiming to launch your brand globally, a seasoned importer seeking new suppliers, or a chef ready to collaborate on cutting-edge menu items, Gulfood 2025 is your gateway to limitless possibilities in the international food and beverage landscape. Register today, finalize your booth or visitor pass, and prepare to be part of a milestone edition shaping the next frontier in the food industry.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

FAQ 1: When and Where Is Gulfood 2025 Taking Place?

Answer: Gulfood 2025 is scheduled for 17–21 February 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. This central location in Dubai, UAE, is easily accessible by car, taxi, and public transportation, making it convenient for global attendees.
 

FAQ 2: What Makes Gulfood 2025 the World’s Largest Annual F&B Event?

Answer: Since 1987, Gulfood has evolved into the biggest annual food and beverage show by bringing together over 5,500 exhibitors, 1+ million products, and participants from 129+ countries. The 2025 edition is set to reach new milestones in product launches, global exhibitors, and high-value trade deals.
 

FAQ 3: How Can I Register or Buy Tickets for Gulfood 2025?

Answer: You can purchase Gulfood 2025 tickets online via the official Gulfood website. Currently, there is a limited-time discount on the 5-day pass, priced at AED 495 (down from AED 695). Early registration is recommended due to high demand.
 

FAQ 4: Who Should Consider Exhibiting at Gulfood 2025?

Answer: Food manufacturers, distributors, import/export businesses, start-up food-tech companies, machinery and equipment providers, and packaging specialists can all benefit from exhibiting. Gulfood is an excellent platform to showcase products, launch new innovations, and connect with major buyers from the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and beyond.
 

FAQ 5: What Are the Main Sectors and Product Categories at Gulfood 2025?

Answer: Gulfood covers eight key segments: Meat & Poultry, Dairy, Beverages, Fats & Oil, Pulses & Grains, Power Brands, World Food, and Health & Free-from. Each segment hosts numerous exhibitors showcasing specialized products, new flavor concepts, and cutting-edge solutions.
 

FAQ 6: Which Major Events and Highlights Can We Expect at Gulfood 2025?
 

Answer:

1. Food500 Summit – A global CEO conference featuring top executives, policymakers, and industry experts discussing future food trends.
2. Top Table Culinary Showcases – Renowned chefs like Alain Ducasse share insights and host live demonstrations.
3. YouthX Young Chef Challenge – Rising culinary talents compete for recognition and professional mentorships.
4. Gulfood Discovery Tours – Curated sector-themed tours to explore innovative exhibits.
    

FAQ 7: How Many Visitors and Exhibitors Are Expected at Gulfood 2025?
 

Answer: Over 100,000 professional visitors are anticipated, with 5,500+ exhibitors spanning 24 halls. This large turnout underscores Gulfood’s reputation as a premier sourcing event for the global F&B sector, offering diverse opportunities for networking and partnerships.
 

FAQ 8: Why Is Dubai an Ideal Location for Gulfood?

Answer: Dubai’s strategic geographic position, world-class infrastructure, and status as a global trade hub make it perfect for an international F&B show. The Dubai World Trade Centre features advanced facilities, convenient transport links, and proximity to business districts, hotels, and restaurants, enhancing the overall event experience.
 

FAQ 9: How Much Does It Cost to Have a Booth at Gulfood 2025?
 

Answer:
Booth pricing at Gulfood 2025 varies by size, location, and package. For example, U.S. exhibitors using SUSTA (Southern United States Trade Association) sponsorship can secure:

• 6m² in-line booth for USD 7,589 (or USD 7,389 early bird)
• 9m² in-line booth for USD 11,123 (or USD 10,923 early bird)
• 9m² corner booth for USD 11,828 (or USD 11,628 early bird)
   

FAQ 10: What Is the Projected Impact of Gulfood 2025 on Global Food Trade?

Answer: Gulfood 2025 is expected to facilitate USD 20+ billion in trade deals, equivalent to 1% of total world F&B trade. As one of the first major food exhibitions of the year, it sets the pace for industry trends, product launches, and strategic alliances.
 

FAQ 11: How Do I Find and Book Hotels Near Dubai World Trade Centre for Gulfood?

Answer: Multiple event accommodation agencies (e.g., ExpoBeds) provide booking services for hotels and BnBs close to the venue. They often offer early-bird rates and negotiated packages. Early booking is recommended due to high visitor turnout.
 

FAQ 12: Will Gulfood Expand Beyond 2025?

Answer: Yes. The organizers announced plans to add Expo City Dubai as a secondary venue in 2026, creating a twin-venue format to accommodate growing demand. This expansion signifies Gulfood’s commitment to support more sectors and exhibitors in the coming years.