Gulfood Strengthens Role as Strategic Pillar of UAE Food Economy, Expands Global Agri-Trade Footprint

CMB Premium Market Insight

Gulfood 2026 has moved beyond a traditional trade exhibition. Instead, it is now positioned as a system-shaping global platform for agri-trade, food security, and innovation. As a result, the event further reinforces the UAE’s role as a central hub in international food commerce.

Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya Marks Strategic Expansion

On day three, Gulfood 2026 reached a decisive milestone. The launch of Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya extended the brand into a new continent. Moreover, it placed agri-tech, food-tech, and sustainable innovation at the core of the farm-to-fork-to-future value chain. Consequently, this expansion confirms Gulfood’s transition into a year-round ecosystem covering agriculture, processing, brands, logistics, and future food solutions.

Big Deal Hub Drives High-Value Buyer–Supplier Engagement

At the commercial core, the Big Deal Hub continued to generate strong momentum. It facilitated pre-arranged meetings between global buyers, distributors, and suppliers. These interactions covered fresh, frozen, ingredients, grocery, logistics, and foodservice segments. Importantly, participants reported higher productivity, faster negotiations, and stronger conversion potential.

National Pavilions Reinforce Trade Diplomacy

Meanwhile, national pavilions and returning country delegations reaffirmed Gulfood’s status as a global convening point for trade diplomacy. Notably, renewed participation came from Singapore, Uruguay, and Central Asia. In addition, strong representation was recorded from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Gulfood 2026 Emerges as Launchpad for Investment and Brands

Gulfood 2026 also emerged as a global launchpad for investment and brand growth. For example:

• Fresh Del Monte unveiled two new product ranges for international markets.

• Al Ghurair Foods launched PURL, a new food ingredients brand. At the same time, it announced a USD 20 million investment in a UAE-based meat coating systems plant.

• Start-ups and scale-ups showcased solutions in plant-based protein, functional nutrition, precision aquaculture, and urban farming.

Agri-Tech and Food-Tech Innovation Gains Traction

Furthermore, innovation across agri-tech and food-tech remained highly visible. Integrated aquaculture platforms attracted strong attention. Advanced cultivation systems gained interest. Similarly, sustainable protein concepts resonated with HORECA buyers and retailers.

Gulfood Innovation Awards Spotlight Commercial Excellence

The Gulfood Innovation Awards, spanning 11 categories, recognised excellence across bakery, beverages, dairy, frozen foods, health & wellness, meat, packaging, ready-to-eat, sauces, savoury snacks, and logistics. Therefore, the awards underlined Gulfood’s role in spotlighting commercially viable innovation.

Outlook: Gulfood Positioned as Global Engine for Agri-Trade

Overall, with new international MOUs and geographic expansion through Gulfood360 Africa/Kenya, Gulfood is increasingly positioned as a global engine for agri-trade and investment flows. In turn, this strengthens cross-border collaboration and reinforces the UAE’s long-term food security and trade leadership.