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    Trade showB2B

    GulFood

    Gulfood 2027 is the world's largest annual food and beverage sourcing show, taking place 15–19 March 2027 across Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai

    Food & BeverageF&B SourcingFood InnovationLogisticsGrocery TradeFresh Produce

    Dates

    15–19 Mar 2027

    City / country

    Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Venue

    Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai

    Time

    10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

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    Event overview

    Overview

    Gulfood is where global food business grows. Sitting at the centre of international food trade, it brings together the people, markets, knowledge and opportunities that move the industry forward.

    For more than three decades, Gulfood has connected the global food and beverage community, creating the environment where businesses expand their reach, build valuable relationships and unlock new routes to growth. Curated from every major producing region, Gulfood offers unrivalled access to global markets, connecting buyers, suppliers, governments and industry leaders at a scale unmatched anywhere else

    TL;DR

    1. 1Gulfood 2027 runs 15–19 March 2027 at Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition
    2. 2Expected 8,500+ exhibitors from 195 countries showcasing over 1.5 million products across 12 core
    3. 3New strategic sectors debut: Gulfood Fresh (fresh produce), Gulfood Startups (agri-food tech), Gulfood Logistics
    4. 4Traditional sectors remain prominent: Beverages, Dairy, Fats & Oils, Meat & Poultry, Seafood and
    5. 5Gulfood serves as the primary gateway to high-growth MEASA (Middle East, Africa, South Asia)

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Food and beverage importers, exporters, wholesalers and distributors
    Retailers, supermarket buyers and grocery chain procurement managers
    Hotel groups, restaurant chains, caterers and hospitality industry buyers (HORECA sector)
    Food service professionals, including chefs, culinary directors and menu development specialists
    Food manufacturers and processors seeking ingredients, packaging and supply chain solutions
    Government bodies, trade associations, investment firms and industry regulators
    Food tech investors, start-up founders and innovation scouts
    Trade journalists, food bloggers and industry analysts

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Food and beverage manufacturers and producers across all categories – dairy, meat, poultry, seafood, beverages, fats & oils, pulses, grains, fresh produce, snacks and confectionery
    Ingredient suppliers, flavour houses and food additive manufacturers
    Food technology companies offering processing, packaging, automation and cold chain solutions
    Agri-food start-ups and innovators in alternative proteins, plant-based foods, functional nutrition and sustainable production
    Logistics and supply chain providers specialising in food-grade transport, warehousing and blockchain-enabled traceability
    Grocery and retail technology platforms serving the food trade sector
    National trade promotion organisations and government export agencies organising country pavilions
    Halal certification bodies and food safety/quality assurance organisations

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Beverages
    Dairy
    Power Brands
    Meat, Poultry & Seafood
    Fats & Oils
    Gulfood Startups
    Gulfood Fresh
    Gulfood Logistics
    Grocery Trade
    World Food
    Pulses & Grains
    Health & Wellness

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai

    Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Entrances & gates

    DWTC Taxi Hub

    Pick-up/drop-off point for taxis and ride-hailing apps at Al Mustaqbal Parking, ground level

    DEC Taxi Hub

    Pick-up/drop-off point for taxis and ride-hailing apps at South Pavilion Entrance

    Facilities

    Parking

    DWTC has a multi-storey parking lot with approximately 5,000 parking spaces. Paid car parks: Sheikh Rashid Tower car park, Za'abeel Plaza car park and Mustaqbal car park, rate AED 10/hour. Free parking: parking lots B, C and D opposite the Novotel hotel. DEC offers 10,000+ free parking spaces

    5,000 spaces · AED 10.00/day

    Accessibility

    DWTC is wheelchair accessible -. The main entrance has wheelchair access and automatic doors -. There are accessible toilets on each floor -. Manual wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge at the Convention Gate, Hall 1 and the EMS information desk -. Accessible parking available

    Prayer rooms

    There are prayer rooms for men and women on the second floor of Sheikh Rashid Hall

    Food options

    Visitor Café, On-site dining

    On-site dining

    Parking: DWTC offers paid on-site parking with multiple entry points. DEC at Expo City provides 10,000+ free parking spaces including designated areas and Park & Ride locations. Limited paid parking is also available near DWTC at Al Mustaqbal St., Exhibition St., Sheikh Rashid Tower, and One Za-abeel. Park & Ride via Metro connects both venues

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Trade-only

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    15–18 March 2027:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    19 March 2027:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    • Standard 5-Day Trade Visitor Pass

      Grants 5-day access across all Dubai World Trade Centre exhibition halls and product showcases

      AED 495.00
    • Fast-Track 5-Day Visitor Pass

      Includes fast-track registration turnstiles, priority hall entry, and digital show catalog

      AED 695.00
    • Connexions VIP Buyer Pass

      Access to Connexions VIP lounge, private meeting suites, and scheduled B2B supplier matchmaking

      AED 1,250.00
    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    Pre-registration is compulsory. Badges are non-transferable. Present your confirmation QR code and photo ID (passport, UAE Emirates ID, or driving license) at Dubai World Trade Centre fast-track registration stations

    Ticket notes

    Gulfood is strictly a B2B trade exhibition for food, beverage, hospitality, and culinary professionals; persons under 21 and the general public are not admitted. Passes grant full 5-day access to all 24 exhibition halls

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Gulfood Organizer

    General Inquiries

    Gulfood Marketing

    Marketing Inquiries

    What's on

    Programme

    Awards

    Gulfood Innovation Awards

    Annual

    Internationally recognised awards programme held during Gulfood, recognising outstanding innovation across F&B categories including bakery, dairy, meat and poultry, sauces, and health and wellness. Shortlisted products gain exposure to international buyers, importers, and trade media

    Best Bakery ProductBest Dairy ProductBest Meat & Poultry ProductBest Sauce / CondimentBest Health & Wellness Product
    source

    Sponsors

    Almarai

    BRF

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2027 · 300,000 visitors · 8,500 exhibitors

    Gulfood 2027 is expected to host 8,500+ exhibitors from 195 countries and close to 300,000 attendees, with the event doubling exhibition space across two mega venues

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    300,000

    Exhibitors

    8,500

    Floor area (sqm)

    280,000

    Exhibitor countries

    195

    Visitor countries

    195

    Growth over time

    New this edition

    • 1

      Dual-venue expansion (2026)

      Gulfood 2026 expanded across two mega venues – Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City – doubling exhibition space and accommodating 8,500+ exhibitors

      Source
    • 2

      Gulfood Startups (2026)

      New sector connecting over 250 high-growth startups, investors and visionaries to accelerate commercialisation

      Source
    • 3

      World Agri-Foodtech Startup Challenge (2026)

      Inaugural challenge organised with DMCC and IMEAA, featuring a USD 135,000 prize for agri-foodtech startups

      Source
    • 4

      Gulfood Fresh (2027)

      New sector launched at Gulfood 2027 focusing on fresh produce, connecting buyers directly with trusted exporters

      Source
    • 5

      Gulfood Logistics (2027)

      New sector covering cold chain, AI-driven supply chain and blockchain solutions for food trade, introduced at Gulfood 2027

      Source
    • 6

      Grocery Trade (2027)

      New sector spotlighting the rapidly transforming grocery retail sector, brought together for the first time at Gulfood 2027

      Source

    Next edition outlook

    2027-03-15 – 2027-03-19
    confirmed

    Gulfood 2027 will retain the two-venue format while moving to a later Q1 slot (15–19 March) The edition is expected to host 8,500+ exhibitors from 195 countries and close to 300,000 attendees, building on 2026's record-breaking momentum. New sectors introduced in 2026 (Gulfood Fresh, Gulfood Logistics, Grocery Trade, Gulfood Startups) are set to expand further. The Gulfood World Economy Summit and Big Deal Hub will return as core commercial engines. Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya, announced at Gulfood 2026, will debut in Nairobi from 4–6 May 2027, extending the brand's footprint into the African continent

    Later date: 15–19 March 2027 (vs. 26–30 January 2026) Continued dual-venue operation across DWTC and DEC at Expo City Dubai Expansion of 2026's new sectors (Fresh, Logistics, Grocery Trade, Startups) with broader participation Launch of Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya in Nairobi (May 2027) as a regional extension Increased AI and food-economy intelligence integration across the show

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    Gulfood 2026 set a new global benchmark for scale and commercial impact, operating seamlessly across two mega venues for the first time in its 31-year history. The show sold out 280,000 square metres of exhibition space at Dubai World Trade Centre and the newly expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai, hosting 8,500+ exhibitors from 195 countries and close to 300,000 attendees. The dual-venue model enabled strategic sector segmentation: DEC focused on high-volume trade (World Food, Rice/Pulses/Grains) plus three new sectors (Gulfood Fresh, Gulfood Logistics, Grocery Trade), while DWTC hosted established categories including Beverages, Dairy, Meat & Poultry, Power Brands and Seafood – the latter receiving its own dedicated sector for the first time. Innovation was central, with the Gulfood Startups sector featuring 250+ startups from 30+ countries and the inaugural World Agri-Foodtech Startup Challenge offering a USD 135,000 prize. The Big Deal Hub generated AED 168 billion in deals through 3,500+ curated meetings among 1,000+ premium buyers. International participation reached record levels: 40% of exhibitors were first-timers; India was Official Country Partner with 600+ exhibitors; new national participants included Luxembourg, Maldives, Rwanda, Slovakia, Sweden and Uganda. The event also served as a launchpad for Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya, debuting in Nairobi in May 2027

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    Gulfood 2026 attracted close to 300,000 professional attendees from 195 countries, with a buyer composition that covered the full food supply chain: importers/wholesalers (28%), distributors/retailers (19%), supermarket/chain buyers (17%), and hospitality/foodservice (16%) The Big Deal Hub concentrated 1,000+ premium buyers into 3,500+ curated meetings, delivering high-intent commercial engagements. Italian exhibitors at DWTC reported well-profiled audiences with interested operators and quality contacts, while some DEC-based exhibitors noted lower footfall due to the 50-minute distance between venues. Multiple exhibitors secured real orders during or immediately after the show: Estonian snack producer Balsnack received a full-container order from Jordan within hours of the fair's close. First-time participants reported strong engagement; 70% of exhibitors indicated they would return, and 88% validated the show's commercial value

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitor ROI at Gulfood 2026 was strong across multiple metrics. The Big Deal Hub generated AED 168 billion in deals through 3,500+ curated meetings. Major distribution agreements included Al Maya–Frío Beverages, Al Maya–Dilmah iced tea (UAE distribution), and Brands Republic securing partnerships valued at AED 500 million over five years. Asia Food Forum secured a purchase understanding for approximately 12,000 metric tons of sugar. Estonian exhibitors reported immediate results: Balsnack received a full-container order from Jordan within hours; Salvest has found at least one client per year worth €1 million+ annually; total revenue from Enterprise Estonia-supported fair participation exceeds €9 million. Chinese exhibitors also reported strong outcomes: one Qingdao company secured USD 950,000 inprospective orders from three returning clients on-site; another collected 300+ business cards and identified eightprospective buyers. The 70% repeat-exhibitor rate and 88% commercial-value approval rate underscore the event's positive ROI

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA)

    Why it matters

    Gulfood 2027 matters because it sits at the intersection of the world's fastest-growing food markets. The Middle East food and beverage market exceeds USD 250 billion, growing at 7.2% annually, with the UAE importing over 80% of its food – creating an insatiable demand for international suppliers. Dubai's strategic location as a logistics hub connects Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, making Gulfood the primary gateway for suppliers targeting the high-growth MEASA (Middle East, Africa, South Asia) region. The 2027 edition's expansion across two mega venues and introduction of new sectors (Fresh, Startups, Logistics, Grocery Trade) reflect the industry's transformation toward technology-driven, sustainable, and efficient food systems. For buyers, Gulfood offers one-stop access to 8,500+ exhibitors from 195 countries showcasing 1.5M+ products – compressing months of global sourcing into five days. For exhibitors, it provides direct exposure to procurement decision-makers from governments, retail chains, hospitality groups, and distribution networks, with previous editions generating billions in trade deals

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Healthy snacks and the rise of plant-based alternatives

    Healthy snacks based on nuts, seeds and vegetables are a trend among diet-conscious consumers -. The consumption of yogurt and oat, soy, and almond drinks continues to expand, and the demand for plant-based dairy alternatives is strong

    Source
    02

    Growing demand for high-end non-alcoholic and functional beverages

    Demand for premium waters, functional drinks and alcohol-free alternatives is rising, reflecting consumer preferences for health-conscious and sophisticated beverage options

    Source
    03

    Food technology, AI and smart supply chains are reshaping the industry

    Gulfood 2027 has a dedicated platform focusing on food technology startups, smart manufacturing, sustainable sourcing, alternative proteins, AI-driven logistics and next-generation retail solutions. AI-driven systems, automation and blockchain-enabled logistics have become core topics

    Source
    04

    Halal, sustainable and functional foods take center stage

    Gulfood 2027 focuses on halal products, alternative proteins, sustainable foods, functional cuisine and premium non-alcoholic beverages -. The show places special emphasis on halal standards compliance is key to entering the multi-billion dollar market in Muslim countries

    Source
    05

    High growth and high import dependence in the Middle East market drive global procurement

    The Middle East food and beverage market exceeds US$250 billion, with an annual growth rate of 7.2%; the UAE's food import dependence exceeds 80%, and the demand for halal food is strong. Gulf countries have high GDP per capita and are highly receptive to premium prices for high-quality, healthy, and organic products

    Source
    06

    Alternative protein market accelerates growth in Middle East

    Plant-based diets are growing in popularity in the Middle East, especially in the United Arab Emirates, where consumption of meat alternatives is expected to grow from $67.3 million in 2020 to $276 million in 2027 and $2,207.9 million in 2030. The global meat market is expected to exceed $1.3 trillion by 2027

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    Fresh Del Monte launches two new product lines at Gulfood 2027

    Read

    Gulfood360 Africa debuts in Nairobi in May 2027

    Read

    Gulfood 2026 dual venues set record: AED 168 billion transaction volume

    Read

    Gulfood 2027 double-venue linkage, exhibition area exceeds 300,000 ㎡

    Read

    Gulfood 2027 highlights innovation and future food

    Read

    Gulfood 2027 confirms 8,500+ exhibitors and 12 industry sectors

    Read

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · AED

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    DXB

    Dubai International Airport

    Major international airports. You can take the Dubai Metro Red Line directly to World Trade Center Station (about 19 minutes, departs every 5 minutes) or taxi about 9 minutes. Emirates Airlines offers special airfares to Gulfood attendees

    About 10-15 km

    to venue

    About 10-20 minutes

    by car

    DWC

    Al Maktoum International Airport

    Located in Dubai South, close to Expo City Dubai. The drive takes about 42 minutes. Public transportation requires changing to buses and subways, which takes a long time (about 1.5 hours)

    approx. 58 km

    to venue

    About 42-60 minutes

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    Economical
    Deira / Bur Dubai / Al Rigga / Al Jaddaf

    USD 80–180 / night

    Suitable for business travelers on a budget. Ibis Al Rigga-, Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf-, Regent Palace Hotel-, Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai-. Some hotels are closer to subway stations

    Mid-range
    Sheikh Zayed Road / Trade Centre District

    USD 180–400 / night

    Convenient option near DWTC. Novotel Dubai World Trade Centre, Ibis World Trade Centre, Gevora Hotel-, The H Dubai-, Rove Trade Centre-. Some hotels are within walking distance of the exhibition hall

    Deluxe
    Dubai Marina / Downtown / Jumeirah

    USD 400–800 / night

    Providing high-end services and facilities, it is suitable for business travelers who have high requirements for accommodation quality. InterContinental Dubai Marina- is the ideal base for traveling between two venues; Jumeirah Emirates Towers-, One&Only One Za'abeel- and Cheval Maison Expo City Dubai

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Dubai Metro

    Estimated costNOL Card: Silver Card AED 25 (including AED 19 balance), Gold Card AED 25 (including AED 19 balance) -; Minimum round-trip balance requirement: Silver Card AED 15, Gold Card AED 30
    Best forRed Line: World Trade Center Station (to DWTC) or Expo 2020 Station (to DEC)

    The most convenient way recommended by RTA. The World Trade Center station has multiple exits leading directly to the exhibition hall -; the Expo 2020 station can lead directly to Expo City Dubai-. The subway ride between the two stations is about 50 minutes

    Free Shuttle Bus

    Estimated costfree
    Best forDWTC ↔ DEC (Expo City Dubai) -; Dubai Mall and Al Wasl Club → Gulfood transportation hub

    Gulfood provides free shuttle buses to the two venues to achieve seamless linkage. The RTA also operates free buses from Dubai Mall and Al Wasl Club. 30 rapid bus line services will also be launched during the exhibition

    Taxi/Ride-hailing

    Estimated costDXB → DWTC:27–50 AED;DXB → DEC:80–120 AED
    Best forDoor-to-Door between airports, hotels, DWTC, DEC

    Online ride-hailing services such as Careem and Uber are widely used. Both DWTC and DEC have designated pick-up and drop-off points -. Most taxis accept credit card payments

    Driving & Parking

    Estimated costDWTC peripherals: AED 25/hour (during major events) -; DEC: free
    Best forAround DWTC and DEC

    DWTC perimeter parking charges increase to AED 25/hour- during major events. DEC (Expo City Dubai) offers 10,000+ free parking spaces -. It is recommended to give priority to public transportation to avoid congestion

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    On-arrival available
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    30-day single entry tourist/business visaApplicable to business visitors who are not included in the list of visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries. It needs to be handled through a licensed travel agency or hotel in the UAE$69.0048 hours (official standard processing time)
    60-day single entry tourist/business visaSuitable for business visitors who need to stay in the UAE for a longer period of time. It needs to be handled through a licensed travel agency or hotel in the UAE$96.0048 hours (official standard processing time)
    90-day visa-free/visa-on-arrival (for business purposes)Applicable to citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and most EU/Schengen countries—Apply directly upon entry
    Conditional visa on arrival (60 days)Applicable to citizens of Indonesia, Kenya, the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand and Vietnam holding a valid residence permit in the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore or South Korea—Apply upon entry

    Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman) are visa-free for entry and only need to present a valid GCC passport or national ID card. In addition, citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and most EU/Schengen countries can obtain a 90-day visa exemption or visa on arrival -. Citizens of some countries (such as India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Kenya, South Africa) can obtain a conditional visa on arrival when they meet certain conditions (hold a valid residence permit from the above designated countries)

    UAE Customs accepts ATA Carnets for temporary import of exhibits subject to Annex B.1 of the Istanbul Convention (Exhibitions, Trade Fairs, Conferences and Similar Events) - -. Using the ATA carnet eliminates the need to pay customs deposits and taxes, and does not require the completion of regular customs declaration procedures. The temporary import period of the ATA carnet is 6 months or the validity period of the carnet (whichever is shorter) -. Exhibits must be listed item by item in the carnet list and shall not be declared together with permanently imported or other temporarily imported goods. It usually takes 1-2 weeks to process the ATA carnet. It is recommended that exhibitors consult their home country's chamber of commerce in advance

    Official visa page

    Weather

    The average high temperature in March is 28-30°C and the low temperature is 17-20°C-. Very little rainfall (about 7% of rainy days) -. There is ample sunshine, with an average of about 11 hours of sunshine per day. It is recommended to wear light and breathable business attire and bring a light jacket with you to cope with the strong air conditioning indoors

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC) has its own metro station (Red Line World Trade Center Station) -; Dubai Exhibition Center (DEC) is served by Expo 2020 Metro Station. The two venues are connected by a free shuttle bus (departures approximately every 15 minutes) -. The venue is adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Boulevard and is easily accessible by car. Taxis and online ride-hailing services such as Careem and Uber are widely available

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Business etiquette and attire

    Dubai's business culture blends international practices with local traditions. Meetings usually begin with formal greetings and pleasantries, and then get down to business after establishing rapport. Respect hierarchy, identify decision-makers early and be courteous to senior attendees -. Dress code should be conservative and professional: suits or business casual are recommended for men, business attire is recommended for women, and short skirts or low necklines should be avoided

    Greetings and business card exchange

    A handshake is a standard greeting, but some Emirati men and women may not shake hands with members of the opposite sex due to religious customs -. Business cards are exchanged frequently and should be handed and received with the right hand -. Gift giving is optional but welcome, products containing alcohol or pork should be avoided and delivered with the right hand

    Local customs and sensitive matters

    Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Foul or offensive language may be illegal and result in fines or deportation. Photographing government buildings, military installations, or local residents (especially women) without permission is prohibited. Alcohol is available in licensed hotels and venues but should be consumed with caution. Please respect worship times during the show – many local business people will pause from work to pray. Weekends in the UAE are Friday and Saturday, so Sunday to Thursday are working days

    Things to note during Ramadan

    Gulfood 2027 will take place from March 15-19, not during Ramadan (Ramadan 2027 is expected to start around March 9, but the exact date will depend on the moon phase). If the exhibition period coincides with Ramadan, eating, drinking or smoking in public places during the day is prohibited. It is recommended to confirm the exact date of Ramadan that year before traveling

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: Dubai International Airport (DXB)

    Major international airports. You can take the Dubai Metro Red Line directly to World Trade Center Station (about 19 minutes, departs every 5 minutes) or taxi about 9 minutes. Emirates Airlines offers special airfares to Gulfood attendees

    Visa

    UAE visa policies vary based on nationality. Citizens of GCC countries are visa-free; citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and most European countries can obtain a 90-day visa-free or visa on arrival; citizens of other countries need to apply for a 30-day or 60-day single-entry tourist/business visa in advance (through a licensed travel agency). Citizens of some countries (such as India, Indonesia, Vietnam, etc.) can obtain a conditional visa on arrival when they hold a valid residence permit in a designated country. It is recommended that all exhibitors check the latest visa requirements through the UAE government’s official website or the UAE embassy or consulate in their local area before traveling

    Processing: Apply for a visa in advance: 48 hours (official standard processing time) hours; visa on arrival/visa-free: applied upon entry

    The passport must be valid for no less than 6 months. A return or onward ticket is required. Valid medical insurance covering the UAE is required. Visa rules may change at any time, please confirm the latest policies through GDRFA Dubai (tel 8005111 or +971 4313 9999) or the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before traveling. Gulfood exhibitors can apply for an invitation letter from the organizer or organizer to assist with visa processing after the booth is confirmed

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Check-in (recommended)

    2027-03-15

    Check-out (recommended)

    2027-03-19

    Areas to stay

    Trade Centre District / Sheikh Zayed Road · Dubai Marina · Downtown Dubai · Deira / Bur Dubai · Expo City Dubai

    Economical

    USD 80–180 / night

    Mid-range

    USD 180–400 / night

    Deluxe

    USD 400–800/night

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: DXB to DWTC: It takes about 10-20 minutes by taxi -; the subway red line goes directly to World Trade Center Station -. DXB to DEC: Take a taxi for about 35-45 minutes; take the subway red line to EXPO 2020 station -. DWC to DEC: about 15-20 minutes by taxi; about 45-60 minutes to DWTC

    Hotel → venue: Hotels along Sheikh Zayed Road provide easy access to DWTC. The Dubai Marina hotel is accessible by tram to the Metro Red Line. Hotels near Expo City are within walking distance or a short taxi ride to DEC

    Ride-hail: Careem, Uber, Bolt and other online ride-hailing applications are widely used -. Both DWTC and DEC have designated pick-up and drop-off points

    Public transit: The Metro Red Line connects DWTC (World Trade Center Station) and DEC (EXPO 2020 Station) -. There is a free shuttle bus between the two venues -. There is also a free RTA shuttle bus from Dubai Mall and Al Wasl Club

    Parking: DWTC has paid parking; DEC offers 10,000+ free parking spaces -. Paid parking lots around DWTC include Sheikh Rashid Tower, Za'abeel Plaza and Mustaqbal parking lots

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Seasonality: March in Dubai is warm and pleasant. Average highs: 28–30°C (82–86°F), average lows: 19–20°C (66–68°F). Rainfall is minimal (~7%). Lightweight business attire recommended; carry a light jacket for heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces

    Packing: The average high temperature in March is 28-30°C and the low temperature is 17-20°C-. Very little rainfall (about 7% of rainy days) -. There is ample sunshine, with an average of about 11 hours of sunshine per day. It is recommended to wear light and breathable business attire and bring a light jacket with you to cope with the strong air conditioning indoors

    Itinerary builder

    Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

    Add side trips

    Default day plan

    1. 08:00Arrive at venue; collect badge (pre-registered); review floor plan and sector halls
    2. 09:00–12:30Visit sector-specific halls; meet key suppliers and review new product launches
    3. 12:30–13:30Lunch break; network with other attendees at on-site catering areas
    4. 13:30–16:00Attend scheduled buyer-supplier meetings or conference sessions
    5. 16:00–17:30Explore innovation zones and international pavilions; follow up on leads
    6. 18:00 onwardsEvening networking dinner or event; plan next day's schedule

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: 2027 (Tuesday, the second day of the exhibition)

    The second day of the exhibition is usually the day with the most complete exhibitors and visitors and the most intensively arranged activities. On the opening day (Day 1), there may be official ceremonies and media activities, with peak traffic; while on Days 3-5, some exhibitors may move out early or reduce their personnel. On the second day, all exhibitors are in place and various conferences, forums and social activities are in full swing. It is the most efficient day to visit

    T-90

    Clarify exhibition goals and budget — Determine the core objectives of the exhibition (brand exposure/new customer development/order closing), and formulate an overall budget framework (booth fees, construction, travel, sample transportation, personnel, etc.). Set aside 15-20% of your budget for localized packaging and Arabic promotional materials

    T-80

    Filter booth locations and submit application — Give priority to entrances, main passages, elevator entrances, double openings or locations close to big brands. The premium for a double-opening booth can reach 40-60% of that of a standard booth. Submit a reservation request through an official or authorized agent

    T-70

    Cooperate with the organizer to complete the qualification review — Submit business license, product pictures and names, exhibit list and other information to ensure compliance with the exhibition theme and Middle East market access requirements

    T-60

    Confirm booth and sign contract — Check the booth number, price, basic configuration, and fee details (booth fees, management fees, electricity fees, etc.), clarify the cancellation and change rules and liability for breach of contract, and reject verbal commitments

    T-50

    Pay deposit — Usually 50% deposit is paid in advance and the payment receipt is retained. The balance payment is due one month before commencement

    T-40

    Submit exhibition information — Submit the company LOGO, fascia board characters, exhibit list, electricity requirements, special decoration design plan (if necessary), etc

    T-30

    Arrange exhibit transportation and logistics — Contact the official freight forwarder or cooperative logistics provider (such as GKL Showfreight- ) to arrange sea/air transportation of the exhibits and reserve time for customs clearance

    T-14

    Confirm itinerary and personnel arrangements — Book air tickets and hotels (it is recommended to check in on March 14 and check out on March 20), apply for visas (if necessary), and confirm the list of exhibitors and division of labor

    T-7

    Exhibit customs clearance and on-site preparation — Confirm that the exhibits have been cleared from customs and delivered to the venue. Prepare on-site promotional materials, samples, business cards, negotiation recording tools, etc

    T-2

    Booth construction and inspection — Standard booths will be built by the organizer, while special booths must be submitted for review in advance and completed. Check circuits, lighting, networks and other facilities

    T-0

    On-site check-in and sign-in to collect certificates — Bring your original passport and pre-registration confirmation letter to the on-site service desk or self-service machine to exchange for your admission pass

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    08:00

    Arrive at the venue, receive your admission pass (pre-registration), and view the booth map and zoning

    Venue Entrance/Registration Desk
    09:00 to 12:30

    Visit target exhibition halls and exhibitors, and negotiate with key suppliers/buyers

    Various theme exhibition halls
    12:30 to 13:30

    Lunch, dining in the venue or nearby restaurants, brief review of the morning itinerary

    In-venue dining area/nearby restaurants
    13:30 to 16:00

    Continue to visit the remaining target exhibition halls and attend scheduled B2B meetings or industry forums

    Exhibition Hall / Conference Area
    16:00 to 17:30

    Explore the Innovation Zone (Gulfood Startups), international exhibition groups, and collect market information and competitive product trends

    Innovation Area/National Pavilion Area
    18:00 to 20:00

    Participate in industry exchange cocktail parties or have dinner with clients to expand your network

    In the venue/nearby hotels or restaurants
    20:00 to 22:00

    Organize clues and notes for the day and plan the itinerary for the next day

    hotel

    Side trips

    5

    Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall

    Landmark / Shopping

    Approximately 5-10 minutes drive from DWTC

    The tallest building in the world, the observation deck overlooks the panoramic view of Dubai. The Dubai Mall brings together the world's top brands, dining and entertainment facilities, including the Dubai Fountain Show

    Dubai Marina and JBR Beach

    Beachfront / Dining

    Approximately 20-25 minutes from DWTC; approximately 15-20 minutes from DEC

    The modern seaside area has many high-end restaurants, cafes and coastal walks, suitable for business dinner or leisure relaxation after the exhibition

    Expo City Dubai

    Culture/Exhibition

    DEC venue location

    The comprehensive park transformed from the 2020 World Expo site, the iconic Al Wasl Dome and pavilions from various countries are worth visiting. The Gulfood DEC venue is located here

    Palm Jumeirah

    Landmark / Leisure

    Approximately 25-30 minutes from DWTC; approximately 20 minutes from DEC

    One of the largest artificial islands in the world, it has luxury resort hotels, a water park and numerous seaside restaurants. Atlantis is a popular place to check in

    Desert Safari in Dubai

    Outdoor / Culture

    Approximately 45-60 minutes drive from the city center

    Experience desert off-roading, camel riding, traditional Arabian dinners and performances, which are classic projects to experience the Middle Eastern style. It is suitable for arranging a half-day tour after the exhibition

    Networking spots

    5

    Big Deal Hub

    Business negotiation area

    A high-value procurement matching platform with 1,000+ top buyers participating and 3,500+ orientation meetings available for reservation. Advance registration required

    National Pavilion Hospitality Area

    Exhibition group reception area

    Each national pavilion (Switzerland, Denmark, India, Spain, etc.) has its own reception area, providing space for tea breaks and negotiation

    Gulfood Startups Area

    Innovation exchange area

    Gathering 250+ food technology start-ups, suitable for investors, innovative purchasers and industry observers to communicate

    Innovation Awards Exhibition Area

    Awards display area

    Showcasing innovative products of the year and a great place to discover industry trends and meet innovators

    Food500 Summit / Gulfood NXT Stage

    Industry Summit

    A high-level forum that brings together industry leaders and decision-makers, with keynote speeches and round-table discussions

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Shell scheme

    INR 133333–120000 / m²

    Raw space

    —

    Standard booth

    9 m²

    Pricing based on India Pavilion shell scheme participation fees (9 sqm INR 1,200,000; 12 sqm INR 1,500,000; 15 sqm INR 1,800,000). Raw space pricing not publicly available. Corner charges apply: INR 30,000 per booth. Swiss Pavilion packages (CHF 6,900–23,925 for 4–15 sqm) and mandatory organiser charges (AED 3,700) are also referenced. Contact organiser for current raw space rates

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Booth 9 m² × $126,666.50/m²$1,139,998.50
    • Flight — Economy Class (Europe → Dubai)$900.00
    Estimated total$1,140,898.50

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    Booth fee sqm (Indian pavilion standard booth)

    exhibitor · shell scheme

    INR 1200000 / per booth

    official

    Booth fee sqm (Indian pavilion standard booth)

    exhibitor · shell scheme

    INR 1500000 / per booth

    official

    Booth fee sqm (Indian pavilion standard booth)

    exhibitor · shell scheme

    INR 1800000 / per booth

    official

    Booth fee sqm (Swiss Pavilion standard booth)

    exhibitor · shell scheme

    CHF 6900 / per booth

    official

    Booth fee sqm (Swiss Pavilion standard booth)

    exhibitor · shell scheme

    CHF 13230 / per booth

    official

    Corner seat surcharge (India Pavilion)

    exhibitor · surcharge

    INR 30000 / per booth

    official

    Audience Pass

    visitor · standard

    RMB 1300 / per person

    official

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    This quiz helps you decide whether visiting Gulfood 2027, exhibiting, or skipping the event is the right move for your business. Answer all questions based on your current goals, budget, and experience

    QUESTION 1 OF 8

    What is your primary role in the food and beverage industry?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    You have clear sourcing categories, budget for travel/hotel, and can dedicate 3–5 days. Especially valuable if you target MEASA suppliers or new categories like Gulfood Fresh

    Best for

    Buyers, sourcing managers, distributors, and food industry professionals seeking to compare suppliers, discover new products, and network without the cost of exhibiting

    Min. budget

    $3,000.00

    Timeline

    At least 3 days (ideally 5) to cover both venues; register 4–6 weeks in advance to secure badge and travel

    Risks

    Limited time across dual venues – may miss some areas

    High footfall and crowding can reduce quality of interactions

    Travel and accommodation costs can be high

    exhibit

    You have a validated product, competitive pricing, and budget for a professional booth. Ideally you already have some regional contacts, or are ready to invest in lead generation. Gulfood's ROI is proven for serious exporters

    Best for

    Food producers, manufacturers, exporters, and technology providers aiming to secure large contracts, launch products, and build regional presence

    Min. budget

    $20,000.00

    Timeline

    Prepare 6–9 months ahead: booth design, logistics, lead capture, and staff training. Final booth booking and materials ready at T

    Risks

    High upfront costs (booth, staff, logistics)

    Dual‑venue challenge – ensure you are in the right hall for your sector

    Fierce competition – need strong differentiation

    skip

    Your key markets are elsewhere, budget constraints are severe, or you need to first validate your product domestically. Re‑evaluate for Gulfood 2028, especially if new sectors match your offering

    Best for

    Businesses with limited budget, no immediate need for MEASA expansion, or those who are first‑time exporters without a clear product-market fit

    Timeline

    N/A

    Risks

    Missed opportunity to connect with major buyers

    May lose competitive edge if rivals exhibit

    Can still benefit from online post‑show reports

    Book with

    Partners

    GKL Showfreight

    Freight & Logistics

    Freight services from Netherlands to Dubai for Gulfood 2026 Dutch Pavilion

    Confidence: inferred

    Orange Exhibition Management mentions on LinkedIn that GKL Showfreight provides freight services to its Gulfood 2026 exhibitors

    Ninterior Design LLC

    Booth construction

    Provide booth construction services for the Gulfood 2026 exhibition group

    Confidence: inferred

    Orange Exhibition Management mentioned on LinkedIn that Ninterior Design LLC provides booth construction services to its Gulfood 2026 exhibitors

    Recommended providers

    Hotels

    ExpoBeds

    Get a personalized free quote for hotels near Dubai World Trade Center and Dubai Exhibition Center during Gulfood 2027

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    MEASA
    Middle East, Africa and South Asia – the primary market region served by Gulfood, characterised by high food import dependency and strong purchasing power
    2
    Gulfood Fresh
    A new strategic sector introduced at Gulfood 2027 focused on fresh produce, connecting buyers directly with trusted exporters to optimise supply chains for top-quality produce
    3
    Gulfood Startups
    A new sector showcasing agri-food technology and food innovation start-ups, launched at Gulfood 2027 as part of the event's expanded innovation ecosystem
    4
    Gulfood Logistics
    A new sector covering cold chain, AI-driven supply chain and blockchain solutions for food trade, introduced at Gulfood 2027
    5
    Gulfood Grocery Trade
    A new sector spotlighting the rapidly transforming grocery retail sector, brought together for the first time at Gulfood 2027
    6
    Gulfood World Economy Summit
    A high-level leadership platform at Gulfood bringing together policymakers, CEOs, global institutions and industry visionaries to address food security, trade diplomacy and economic resilience
    7
    Big Deal Meetings
    Curated high-value procurement meetings hosted at Gulfood, designed to facilitate large-scale purchasing agreements between major buyers and suppliers

    Digital business cards for the show floor

    Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.

    Create a free card