Quick question – what are you doing on November 30? Whatever it is, move it over. The Gulf Bar Show is returning to Madinat Jumeirah for two packed days of talks, tastings and trade. It’s already shaping up to be the biggest get-together the MENA bar world has seen so far, and I have all the insider details you need to know before it happens. So, keep reading to find your ultimate guide on what to do, where to go and (most importantly) what to drink at the Gulf Bar Show 2026!
The Bar Craft
For those of you who missed its inaugural run last year, think of it as the region’s big bar-world meet-up. The Gulf Bar Show (GBS) is the first and only dedicated bar and beverage trade show in MENA, and this is only its second edition. But it’s already a lot more than a two-day event. It works all year with the region’s leading distributors and the world’s biggest drinks brands, and it’s built on three pillars: Culture, Craftsmanship and Community. This year’s theme is “The Bar Craft”.
The crowd is big too. Expect more than 3,000 industry leaders and professionals, plus over 100 global and regional exhibitors, all in one place.
Sit Back And Learn From The Pros
If you like learning something new while you sip, this is your section. There are more than 20 seminars and masterclasses, plus over 12 guided tasting sessions. Talks, workshops and masterclasses will be led by respected names from the global bar world, including:
- Ed Cottrell
- Tristan Stephenson, the author behind The Curious Bartender books
- David Rios
- Ian Burrell, known as the “Rum Ambassador”
- Marcio Silva
- Renato Giovannoni
- Alex Resnik
Bartender, bar owner, or just someone who loves knowing what’s in their glass? A masterclass with one of these names is a great way to spend an afternoon.
Tasting Bars, Big Brands & A Chocolate Twsit
Beyond the talks, the show floor is where the fun is. Some of the region’s leading venues will take over the show’s Tasting Bars, so you can try the work of top bar teams without leaving the building. Your ticket also gets you around the exhibitor stands, the tasting rooms and the bar pop-ups inside the venue.
Here’s a bonus. GBS is happening at the same time as Salon du Chocolat Dubai, at the same venue. That means the bar and beverage crowd is sharing a roof with the world of chocolate and pastry. Pop between the two and you’ve got a full day of sipping and snacking.
Cocktails, Competitions & More
Now for the question you’ve all been waiting for. There’s plenty to taste, but here are the highlights to look out for:
- Guided tastings: More than 12 sessions, led by people who really know their stuff.
- The Tasting Bars: Leading venues serving up their signature style.
- Bonded by Craft: MENA’s first-ever cocktail storytelling competition, powered by Jack Daniel’s Bonded Series and The Gulf Bar Show. Teams compete during the show, the final is on December 1, and GBS guests get to vote for the winning team. Yes, you get a say!
- Brand sips: This year’s category sponsors are Red Bull, Franklin & Sons, Surgiva and Natural Ice, so expect some familiar names to pour at the show.
Not sure where to start? Plan your sips around the schedule in the app, and take your time with each one.
The Show Doesn’t Stop When The Lights Go Down
GBS keeps the conversation going between editions with “Great Bar Stories”, a short online series sharing honest, insightful and unexpected views from experts and day-to-day bar operators alike. Featured voices include 2026 World Class UAE Bartender of the Year Sharfin Auni and classic Tomatini creator Jimmy Barrat, plus plenty more from behind the bar. It’s a good watch if you want to get in the mood before the big days.
The show also has a feel-good side. In partnership with Evertreen, a tree will be planted in Madagascar in the name of every ticket holder.
Our Insider Tips Before You Go
- Download the app first. The Gulf Bar Show app has the exhibitor directory, venue map, agenda, speakers and guest shifts, so you can plan your two days before you arrive.
- Pick your must-sees early. With 20+ seminars and 12+ tastings, you won’t fit everything into one day. Choose your top sessions first, then explore.
- Think about the two-day pass. If you want to do the talks, the tastings and the show floor, two days gives you room to breathe.
- Bring your ID. Entry is strictly 21+.
- Getting there: Madinat Jumeirah is close to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station, and taxis are an easy option too.
Get Your Hands On These Hot, Hot Tickets
- Tickets: Industry professionals, bar teams, hospitality leaders and beverage enthusiasts can buy tickets through PlatinumList.
- One-day Essential pass (either Nov 30 or Dec 1) starting from AED 195.
- Two-day Explorer pass (both days) starting from AED 275.
- Exhibitors: There’s still room to secure a spot. For registrations, exhibitor opportunities and partnership enquiries, email exhibitors@gulfbarshow.com.
- Stay in the loop: Follow @gulfbarshow on Instagram and Gulf Bar Show on LinkedIn.
This November get ready to learn something new, taste something unexpected, and vote for your favourite team in “Bonded by Craft.” And if you’re anything like me, you’ll definitely be sneaking in a chocolate breaks between sips. Get your tickets now and we’ll see you at the bar!
