Hospitality
Global Interest for Gulfood 2026 Surges Days After the Mega Food Event’s Expansion Announcement at 2025 Show
Building on the hugely successful Gulfood legacy, and in response to record demand from the global F&B community, Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) announcement of Gulfood 2026 has already attracted interest from key industry sectors during the 2025 show. Marking a milestone in its evolution, the expansion taking place 26-30 January 2026, allows Gulfood to further advance its pivotal role in creating value and impact for the global food sector, enabling it to fully service the entire F&B network, and firmly placing the event as the epicentre of international food trade.
Two Venues, Double the Impact
Dubai Expo City, host of both Expo 2020 Dubai and COP28, is on course to become a premier international business district, and the largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibitions venue in the region. With the twin-venue offering greater capacity to grow and meet swelling space demand, it will include new sectors to the existing Gulfood umbrella offering tremendous added value to participants, expanding the food trade and innovation ecosystem necessary to boost the advancement of the global food industry.
The Future of Gulfood Celebrated
Aligned with its robust growth trajectory, Gulfood 2026 will present immense opportunities for disruptors and new product innovations, giving exhibitors a first-mover advantage in a ripe market at the first major food event of the year. Leading and new-to-market F&B brands will have ample opportunities to showcase a broader array of products and services on the expansive show floor; more creative presentation capabilities and first-time exhibitors will have a brand-new platform to showcase ground-breaking innovation to a diversified global community of buyers across the industry.
“Gulfood 2025 has been a huge success for all our brands and after the announcement of 2026, we have already booked our stands for next year and 2027. We have been exhibiting at Gulfood for 27 years, and this strategic move to have two locations is something we are excited about. I believe separating the exhibitors will make it easier for our target consumers to find and visit us, benefiting everyone involved in 2026,’ comments Bhushant Ghandi, Division Manager at Truebell.
Having exhibited for the past four editions Jordi Montfort, Secretary General, Spanish Poultry and Meat Association offered. ‘With the business we are developing here in the region, it’s very exciting to know what’s ahead. Gulfood 2026 will be a strategic point for the Spanish meat sector’s plans as we are continuing to establish and scale our business in the UAE and wider GCC region.’
‘Gulfood 2025 has allowed us to get more than 500 leads to business, so we are excited for Gulfood 2026. Gulfood’s expansion for next year will make it easier to differentiate between the segments and easier for visitors to navigate throughout the space,’ added Anand Bhesdadiya, Director at Stallion Commodities (India) Pvt LTD.
Food Universe in One Show: Expanded Sectors and Incorporation of Other Gulfood Events
New sectors on tap for the 2026 edition include: Digital Innovation, Startups, Logistics, Fresh & Perishables, Health, Wellness & Functional Foods, Next-Gen Food and Beverages, Hospitality, HoReCa, Foodservice Innovation, and more. Existing sections, Power Brands, Pulses & Grains, Fats & Oils, Meat & Poultry, Beverages, World Food and Dairy will return.
Other events under Gulfood will be incorporated into the mega show’s new format. Gulfood Green, a platform for the entire food ecosystem to exchange insights on sustainable practices, food security, food waste and solutions from farm to fork. Gulfood Startups connects the entire global F&B start-up community with venture capitalists (VCs), angel investors, incubators, accelerators and innovation builders.
Catering to the burgeoning HoReCa and food service industry, GulfHost, MENA’s premier hospitality and foodservice equipment event will join. The addition presents a significant opportunity for the industry to explore the latest in smart kitchens, artificial intelligence (AI) & automation, sustainable solutions, and modular innovations designed to help elevate operations and customer experiences.
Gulfood Logistics, a new addition, will bring together all aspects of logistics, from supply chain management and cold chain solutions to cutting-edge innovations in transportation and storage, offering a wide-ranging view of the logistics ecosystem shaping the F&B industry will be added.
Comprehensive operational preparations are already underway to ensure a smooth citywide experience for exhibitors and visitors during the event, with special attention placed on parking solutions, visitor flow, easily accessible premium hotel accommodation, airport proximity and connective public transport to accommodate the large number of expected attendees across both venues, for a seamless experience, reflecting Dubai’s leading position in hosting world-class mega-events. Registrations for inclusion in Gulfood 2026 are now open.
Hospitality
CELEBRATE LOVE UNDER THE STARS WITH VILLAMORÉ’S SEASIDE VALENTINE’S EXPERIENCE
Villamoré Restaurant invites couples to celebrate love in timeless elegance with an exclusive Valentine’s evening on Saturday, 14 February, from 19:00 – 23:00.
Set against the serene backdrop of Dubai’s coastline, the intimate affair begins with a welcome cocktail followed by a meticulously curated five-course dinner, artfully paired with seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired flair. Guests will dine beneath the stars on a private stretch of sand, surrounded by soft candlelight and the gentle rhythm of the sea.
The evening unfolds with live musical performances, adding a layer of sophistication and soulful ambience to the celebration. Upon arrival, each couple will be welcomed with a hand-arranged bouquet of fresh blooms, a poetic prelude to an unforgettable night.
As a final gesture of affection, guests will receive a selection of artisanal chocolates to carry the spirit of the evening beyond sunset.
Priced at AED 999 per couple, the Villamoré Valentine’s Package includes the full dining experience, live entertainment, a floral welcome, and a chocolate as a keepsake. Couples may further elevate their celebration with a special offer of 30% off on select bottles of premium bubbly.
For bookings and inquiries, please contact fbreservation.thepalm@kempinski.com / villamore.reservation@kempinski.com 04 444 2000
Hospitality
A MEDITERRANEAN MOMENT BEGINS IN DUBAI AT ERGON AGORA
Ergon Agora Dubai hosted an intimate preview evening, following its opening in December, offering guests a first glimpse into its Mediterranean lifestyle destination, where gastronomy, culture, and community come together under one roof.
Set within a warm and vibrant atmosphere, the evening reflected Ergon Agora’s ethos, which is rooted in Greek heritage and expressed through contemporary dining. The event offered guests an opportunity to savour the venue’s unique flavours while enjoying leisurely conversation and meaningful shared moments.
A curated selection of signature dishes showcased Ergon Agora’s culinary philosophy, celebrating authentic Mediterranean flavours crafted with premium ingredients. Adding a personal dimension to the evening, the chef engaged with guests throughout the experience, sharing insights into the inspiration behind each dish and the traditions that shape the Ergon Agora table.
“Ergon Agora is our way of bringing the heart of the Mediterranean to Dubai, where authentic flavours, culture, and shared moments come together,” said Khaled Eldawakhly, Owner of Ergon Agora in Dubai.
All under one roof at Ergon Agora brings together a complete Mediterranean experience in one destination. Guests can savour soulful Mediterranean dishes, featuring an array of selected peinirli, fresh pasta, meat and fish, as well as meze dishes and breakfast delights at the Restaurant, indulge in bold street-food flavours at Balboa, enjoy slow-fermented sourdough breads at 72H Artisanal Bakery, delight in classic and modern Greek desserts at Tzeneral Pastry Shop, and explore premium Greek artisanal products at the Ergon Originals Store.
Hospitality
A NEW YEAR OF INDULGENCE: ME BY MELIÁ DUBAI INTRODUCES JANUARY’S MUST-EXPERIENCE MOMENTS
The New Year marks a time to reconnect, explore new experiences, and enjoy the region at its best during the winter season. This year, ME by Meliá Dubai invites guests to ease into the months ahead with a thoughtfully curated collection of seasonal experiences designed to be enjoyed at any pace.
Whether it’s discovering a brand-new daytime brunch, enjoying relaxed dining under the stars, stepping away from the workday for a leisurely business lunch, unwinding with indulgent spa rituals, or beginning to plan Iftar gatherings ahead of the holy month, there is something to suit every mood and moment as the year begins.
BRUNCH:ED
Just launched, BRUNCH:ED is ME by Meliá Dubai’s newest Saturday experience, an elevated daytime brunch set on the hotel’s terrace. Guests are invited to enjoy a carefully curated international buffet featuring hot and cold selections, interactive live cooking stations, and vibrant live entertainment, all set against stunning panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline.
The experience includes a generous spread of freshly prepared dishes, from vibrant seasonal salads and handmade pasta crafted at live stations to perfectly grilled favourites hot off the flame, all finished with an irresistible selection of decadent desserts designed to satisfy every sweet craving.
For those looking to extend the experience, the afternoon continues with an after-party, allowing guests to soak up the atmosphere and keep the energy going well beyond brunch.
After Dusk Ramadan Edition
Experience the spirit of Ramadan at ME by Meliá Dubai’s Level 1 terrace, where guests are invited to gather for a heartwarming Iftar served at sunset. Set within an elegant and refined setting, the experience features a thoughtfully curated selection of traditional and contemporary flavours, creating a calm, reflective atmosphere that makes each evening of the holy month truly special.
Wellness by ME – AWAKEN
After the busy festive period, it’s time to slow down, unwind, and truly rejuvenate. Wellness by ME, the hotel’s spa, invites guests to fully restore with a 60-minute Tailor-Made Royal Massage, a therapeutic treatment combining dry techniques and deep oil stretching to release muscular tension, improve flexibility, and respond to each body’s individual needs.
To elevate the experience further, guests may enjoy a complimentary add-on of either a 30-minute body scrub or an additional 30-minute massage. The wellness journey also includes full access to the pool and sauna, along with a refreshing beverage to complete this moment of relaxation.
Central Restaurant – Business Lunch
This January, Central Restaurant welcomes guests to step away from the hustle and enjoy a well-deserved pause with its Business Lunch, a thoughtfully crafted experience designed to inspire warmth, connection, and culinary delight. Curated by the Executive Chef, the seasonal menu highlights comforting flavours and refined touches, celebrating the very best of the season in every dish.
Guests can savour standout creations such as the Charming Broccoli, featuring smoky charred broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy sunflower seeds, and crispy bacon; the luxuriously smooth Golden Velvet Soup; the refreshing Papaya Mist, with delicate smoked salmon and vibrant edamame; the Coral Catch, a warm, succulent grilled prawn and nutty bulgur salad; the aromatic Sun Souvlaki, with tender chicken, soft pita, and creamy tatziki; and the decadent Ricotta Fold, silky spinach and ricotta ravioli finished with butter and parmesan.
For a comforting finish, an assortment of desserts provides the perfect sweet ending. This midday experience is the ideal retreat from a busy day, offering both flavour and relaxation.
Whether dining solo, taking a well-earned break from the day or gathering colleagues for a networking lunch, this midday experience offers a deliciously memorable way to savour the season.
Grill by ME
January is the perfect season for al-fresco dining! Guests are encouraged to enjoy a relaxed yet elegant evening at ME by Meliá Dubai’s striking Pool Terrace with Grill by ME. Set inside the architectural icon that redefined the city’s skyline, this new open-air dining experience pairs contemporary style with effortless comfort – the kind of place where chilled beats, live grill stations, and ME Dubai’s signature modern energy come together seamlessly. Guests can explore a thoughtfully curated buffet featuring fresh salads, handmade pasta crafted at interactive stations, sizzling grilled favourites, and decadent desserts, all designed to elevate simple flavours with finesse.
Perfect for intimate evenings or vibrant gatherings with family and friends, Grill by ME offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of Dubai after dark.
The Cabana Experience
Soak up the winter sunshine in ultimate style with the Cabana Experience. Perfect for sunbathing, splashing in the pool, or simply lounging in comfort, each cabana is designed to be a private oasis. Standard room guests can enjoy a cabana for AED 250 (for two people), complete with two refreshing beverages of choice, mineral water, cooling towels and a hand fan, plus sun protection by Deeper Beauty to keep everyone perfectly pampered under the sun. Suite guests receive a complimentary cabana with the same indulgent inclusions. Whether it’s sipping a chilled drink poolside, cooling off in the pool, or simply basking in the rays, the Cabana Experience transforms an ordinary day into a sun-soaked escape full of relaxation, fun, and effortless luxury.
Deeper Beauty – Sun Care Elevated
ME by Meliá Dubai proudly continues it’s collaboration with Deeper Beauty, a UAE-born SPF brand that seamlessly blends inclusivity, sustainability, and high-performance skincare. Crafted to protect and celebrate every skin tone, Deeper Beauty’s lightweight, non-white cast formula delivers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without compromise, making it especially suited for darker complexions. Perfect for sun-soaked days by the pool or outdoor adventures, it ensures skin stays nourished, protected, and radiant.
Whether applied before a relaxing cabana day or on-the-go, Deeper Beauty makes sun protection effortless, effective, and suitable for every skin tone.
Whatever the experience, ME by Meliá Dubai is the perfect place to spend January – a destination to indulge, unwind, relax, and reconnect.
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