The Gulfood manufacturing exhibition returns to Dubai in 2026 with its biggest and most technologically advanced edition yet. As the world’s leading platform for food and beverage production, automation, and innovation, the event is shaping the future of how food is made, moved, and delivered.
Whether you’re in manufacturing, R&D, packaging, logistics, or simply curious about the next wave of food tech, this guide will walk you through everything to expect at Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai next January.
- What is Gulfood Manufacturing Food Tech Exhibition Dubai 2026?
- When and where is the event taking place?
- What makes Gulfood Manufacturing 2026 bigger than previous years?
- What can visitors expect from Gulfood Manufacturing 2026?
- What to Expect at Gulfood Manufacturing 2026
- How to attend Gulfood Manufacturing 2026
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
What is Gulfood Manufacturing Food Tech Exhibition Dubai 2026?
Gulfood Manufacturing Food Tech Exhibition Dubai is the region’s biggest showcase for food technology, industrial processing, AI-powered automation, and sustainable manufacturing solutions. It brings together global innovators, technology providers, and F&B manufacturing leaders under one platform to explore next-generation systems and emerging industry trends.
By spanning two major Dubai venues for the first time, the 2026 edition delivers expanded learning, networking, and product discovery experiences. You’ll see everything from robotics in production to eco-friendly packaging, advanced logistics, smart factories, and digital transformation tools shaping the future of food.
When and where is the event taking place?
- Dates: 26 to 30 January 2026
- Venues: Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai
- Organiser: Dubai World Trade Centre
- Industry focus: Food and Beverage Manufacturing, Food Technology, Automation, Logistics, Digitalisation, Sustainability
- Expected attendance: 8,500+ exhibitors from 195 countries, 1.5M+ products
This is the first time the exhibition expands across both locations, creating a seamless dual-venue experience for visitors and exhibitors.
What makes Gulfood Manufacturing 2026 bigger than previous years?
The 2026 edition introduces major upgrades in scale, technology, and industry engagement, bringing several standout features that elevate the entire Gulfood manufacturing experience.
1. Expanded venues and floor space
For 2026, the exhibition doubles its footprint, offering 100% more floor space across two major hubs. Attendees can move between venues with improved connectivity, shuttle routes, and clearer navigation. This allows for expanded exhibitor zones, additional meeting spaces, and more curated innovation areas showcasing emerging technologies.
2. A deeper focus on food technology and smart manufacturing
The heart of Gulfood manufacturing in Dubai has always been innovation, and the 2026 edition takes this a step further. Expect AI-driven production lines, real-time data monitoring, robotics, and waste-reduction systems that are defining the industry’s future.
You’ll find entire zones dedicated to:
- AI and machine learning
- Smart logistics
- IoT-enabled production
- Digital transformation systems
- Sustainable packaging and eco-manufacturing
This is where manufacturers can see how automation is reshaping efficiency while reducing environmental impact, a major priority across global F&B markets.
3. Dedicated sectors and innovation zones
The show is organised into clear sectors to help visitors navigate specialised areas easily:
- Gulfood Logistics
- Gulfood Startups
- Gulfood Fresh
- Gulfood Grocery Trade
- Food Tech Summit
Each sector includes live demos, tech showcases, and expert-led sessions where you can explore how the world’s biggest FMCG companies and disruptive startups are innovating.
4. Networking and partnership opportunities
The event’s massive international attendance means you’ll meet decision-makers, investors, industry consultants, procurement specialists, and technology providers from around the world. Many businesses use the event to announce product launches, form new partnerships, and seal deals that shape industry growth.
Whether you’re a manufacturer or a tech innovator, the exhibition creates meaningful opportunities to collaborate and scale.
What can visitors expect from Gulfood Manufacturing 2026?
Visitors can look forward to a richer lineup of exhibitors, innovations, and industry experiences throughout the 2026 edition.
Exhibitor Showcase
- More than 8,500 exhibitors
- Participants from over 195 countries
- Over 1.5 million products
The exhibitor list includes global manufacturing leaders, robotics providers, food tech developers, packaging innovators, ingredient suppliers, and sustainability-focused brands.
Technology and Innovation
This year’s focus is firmly on digital and tech-driven transformation. Visitors can explore:
- AI-enabled production lines
- Robotics for mass manufacturing
- Smart warehousing and logistics
- Data-driven supply chain solutions
- Eco-friendly packaging alternatives
Conferences and Summits
The Food Tech Summit will bring together top global experts to discuss:
- AI transformation in F&B production
- The rise of smart factories
- Waste reduction technologies
- Automation challenges and opportunities
- Global sustainability benchmarks
Panel discussions, executive talks, and live demos provide practical insights for manufacturers, investors, and innovators.
Networking and Business Development
Like most of Dubai’s events, the exhibition’s design encourages business interactions, from lounges to innovation hubs. With thousands of companies represented, the event is ideal for:
- Cross-border collaboration
- Discovery tours
- New product announcements
- Investment discussions
- Strategic partnerships
What to Expect at Gulfood Manufacturing 2026
Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai brings together global exhibitors, new technologies, expert talks, and major networking opportunities in one place.
1. Exhibitor Showcase
The 2026 edition brings together 8,500+ exhibitors from 195 countries, featuring more than 1.5 million products across food manufacturing, processing, and technology. You’ll find global brands presenting new solutions alongside innovative startups reshaping industry standards.
2. Technology and Innovation
Expect cutting-edge advancements in AI-driven manufacturing, real-time automation, smart logistics, and data-powered production tools. Sustainability also takes centre stage with eco-friendly packaging and energy-efficient systems built for the future of food production.
3. Conferences and Summits
The Food Tech Summit returns with a powerful agenda covering AI, automation, digital transformation, and next-generation manufacturing models. Panels, expert sessions, and awards recognise outstanding innovation and global leadership.
4. Networking and Business Development
With thousands of industry professionals attending, the event creates space for high-impact meetings, new partnerships, investor interactions, and global collaboration. Many brands use the platform to unveil new products, deals, and long-term business initiatives.
How to attend Gulfood Manufacturing 2026
Here’s what you need to know:
Registration
Early registration for Gulfood Manufacturing is advised due to the event’s scale. Tickets and visitor passes are available directly on the official Gulfood website. Corporate teams often register months in advance to secure smoother access.
Accommodation and Travel
Dubai offers accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to serviced apartments and business-friendly stays. Both venues are easily accessible by:
- Dubai Metro
- Taxi
- RTA buses
- Expo City transport routes
If you’re planning to extend your trip, popular places across Dubai offer great options for dining, culture, and entertainment during event week.
Navigating the Event
A dedicated interactive map will be available through the Gulfood website and app. This includes:
- Sector zones
- Conference halls
- Shuttle points
- Amenities
- Food outlets
Signage across both venues ensures seamless movement, even during peak hours.
Key Takeaways
The 2026 edition of Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai stands out for its dual-venue scale, global exhibitor line-up, and deep focus on automation, sustainability, and digital transformation. With Gulfood manufacturing timings spread across five days and a record number of participants, the event delivers unmatched access to future-ready technologies and meaningful networking opportunities.
Whether you’re exploring food tech innovations, searching for business partnerships, or immersing yourself in Dubai’s thriving commercial landscape, the exhibition remains a must-attend global industry event.
FAQs
It is from 26 to 30 January 2026.
Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai.
Manufacturers, technology providers, innovators, logistics experts, and F&B industry professionals.
Through the official Gulfood website, early Gulfood manufacturing registration is recommended.
Gulfood Logistics, Gulfood Startups, Gulfood Fresh, Gulfood Grocery Trade, and the Food Tech Summit.
