If you ever thought Gulfood was an overwhelming experience at just one venue, then 2026 is the year Dubai takes this food festival to the next level, making it an event you cannot skip. For the first time in 31 years, the world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing event is unfolding across two major locations in Dubai! This will transform how visitors experience the show, giving you a chance to explore and make the most of your experience. Running from 26 – 30 January, 2026, Gulfood is now split between Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai, marking a full 100% expansion in a single year.
Also Read: Taste of Dubai 2026 Is Back! – Dates, Restaurants & What You Can Expect
It’s A Record-Breaking Edition You Cannot Miss!
Gulfood 2026 is the largest edition ever staged, covering more than 280,000 square metres of exhibition space. This year’s show brings together over 8,500 exhibitors from 195 countries. As the largest event of the year, you’ll get to experience nearly 1.5 million food and beverage products. According to senior industry figures, the expansion isn’t just about scale, it’s about positioning Dubai as the global meeting point for food trade, innovation and sourcing across every major category.
Two Venues – Twice The Fun
While DWTC continues to host Gulfood’s long-standing core sectors, the latest addition, Expo City Dubai, has become home to the expanded exhibitors. Having two separate venues allows visitors to move more efficiently, reduce congestion and focus on specific categories without exhibition fatigue. High-ranking organisers say the move creates better flow, more meeting space and a significantly improved experience for both exhibitors and visitors.
Your Map To Navigating The Venues
With the show now divided by sector, knowing where to start can save hours.
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC):
- Meat, Poultry & Dairy
- Power Brands & Beverages
- Fats, Oils & Pulses
Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai:
- World Food (Country Pavilions)
- Gulfood Fresh
- Logistics & Supply Chain
- Grocery & Retail Trade
Here’s How To Get There Without Losing Your Sanity
The Dubai Metro Red Line has been optimised as the main connection between the two venues. It’s a direct route to both World Trade Centre Station and Expo 2020 Station.
- Dubai World Trade Centre: Limited parking, higher congestion
- Dubai Expo City: 15,000+ parking spaces and easier access
Do keep in mind that early mornings remain peak hours, especially around Sheikh Zayed Road. Planning ahead is highly recommended.
Everything You Need To Know Before You Head Down
- Date & Time: 26 – 30 January, 2026 | Mon-Thursday 10 AM – 6 PM, Fri unil 5 PM
- Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Price: From AED 450
For more information, visit the official Gulfood website.
