The world’s largest annual food and beverage sourcing event, Gulfood 2026, opened yesterday 26-30 January in Dubai, marking a historic milestone with its 31st edition expanding across two major venues – the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai.
This year’s edition has witnessed a massive scale-up, hosting over 8,500 exhibitors from 195 countries across more than 280,000 square metres of exhibition space, nearly doubling its footprint from previous years. The dual-venue format highlights Gulfood’s growing global influence and reinforces Dubai’s position as a leading international business and trade hub.
In a major development, India is participating as the Partner Country at Gulfood for the first time in the event’s history. India’s presence is being led by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The Indian Pavilion, spread over 1,434 square metres, was inaugurated by Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, in the presence of Deepak Mittal, Indian Ambassador to the UAE.
The pavilion features 161 exhibitors from 25 Indian states and regions, including exporters, farmer-producer organisations, cooperatives, startups, and government agencies. The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) is also participating with 11 exhibitors, primarily showcasing basmati rice and cereal products.
India’s participation reflects its expanding role in global agri-food trade and the strengthening of bilateral relations following the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and Invest India is also present to promote investment opportunities in food processing and allied sectors.
Running until 30 January 2026, Gulfood 2026 continues to serve as a strategic platform for global food trade, innovation, and international collaboration.
