Gulfood 2026: Dubai's F&B Sector Sets New Growth Benchmarks

The Dubai International Chamber organized a pivotal business briefing today at Gulfood 2026, recognized as the largest global food and beverage exhibition. This influential event is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, from January 26 to 30.

The briefing convened 410 delegates from leading international food and beverage firms to assess market trends, identify growth prospects, and elucidate Dubai's strategic position as a global center for food trade and manufacturing.

Robust Growth in Dubai's F&B Sector

Khalid AlJarwan, Executive Vice President of Commercial and Corporate Services at Dubai Chambers, remarked:
"The food and beverage sector in Dubai is experiencing robust growth, backed by economic resilience, a rising population, and an active tourism sector. Gulfood is instrumental in establishing global partnerships and uncovering fresh opportunities. We strive to link international firms with local markets for expanded regional and global growth."

Data from Dubai Customs indicates that food and beverage imports have risen at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2014 to 2024. Meanwhile, exports saw a CAGR increase of 4.4%, and re-exports grew by 5.4% in the same timeframe.

In 2025, the retail sale of fresh and packaged food in the UAE reached a staggering US$ 17.3 billion, while online food purchases amounted to US$ 1.2 billion, expected to rise at an 8.5% CAGR through 2029, per Euromonitor research.

Exploring Investment Opportunities

Between 2021 and 2025, Dubai attracted US$ 576 million in greenfield investments in the food and beverage sector, while the RestaurantTech industry received US$ 898.8 million in the same period, as stated by fDi Intelligence.

Market Insights on Fresh Food

Predictions suggest that retail sales for fresh food in the UAE will increase from US$ 9.75 billion in 2025 at a CAGR of 4.7% through 2030. Meat sales lead this segment with anticipated figures of US$ 3.1 billion in 2025, projected to grow at a 5.1% CAGR, followed by vegetables at US$ 2.7 billion, growing at 4.8% CAGR.

Future of Packaged Food Market

Forecasts indicate packaged food sales will surge from US$ 7.68 billion in 2025, at a 5.4% CAGR until 2030. Staple food sales are predicted to account for US$ 2.7 billion, with an expected growth of 6% CAGR, while dairy products, at US$ 2.3 billion, are projected to grow at 4.7% CAGR.

Projections for Beverages Market

Retail sales for soft drinks are anticipated to hit US$ 4.5 billion by 2030, marking a 6.1% CAGR. Notably, ready-to-drink tea and coffee represent the fastest-growing segments, with tea expanding at 9% CAGR and coffee at 8.3% CAGR.

The Dubai International Chamber's briefing underscored that with robust growth patterns, strategic investments, and Dubai's competitive strengths, the UAE continues to attract top food and beverage companies from around the world.