Dubai's Food & Beverage Sector Shines at Gulfood 2026

Today, the Dubai International Chamber, a key entity within Dubai Chambers, hosted a significant business briefing at Gulfood 2026, renowned as the world's largest food and beverage exhibition. This prominent event is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Expo City Dubai from January 26 to 30.

The briefing gathered 410 representatives from international food and beverage firms to delve into market trends, expansion possibilities, and Dubai's pivotal role as a global hub for food trade and production.

Growth of Dubai’s F&B Sector

Khalid AlJarwan, Executive Vice President of Commercial and Corporate Services at Dubai Chambers, stated:
"The food and beverage sector in Dubai is experiencing robust growth spurred by a resilient economy, increasing population, and a thriving tourism sector. Gulfood plays a crucial role in forging global partnerships and discovering new prospects. We are committed to linking international companies with local opportunities for expansion both regionally and globally."

As per data from Dubai Customs, food and beverage imports in Dubai experienced a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.1% from 2014 to 2024. Exports soared at a CAGR of 4.4%, while re-exports escalated by 5.4% during the same timeframe.

In 2025, retail sales of fresh and packaged foods in the UAE reached a remarkable US$ 17.3 billion, with online food purchases amounting to US$ 1.2 billion, anticipated to grow at an 8.5% CAGR through 2029, according to Euromonitor data.

Investment Potential

Between 2021 and 2025, Dubai secured US$ 576 million in greenfield investments in the F&B sector, while the RestaurantTech industry attracted US$ 898.8 million in the same period, as reported by fDi Intelligence.

Fresh Food Market Outlook

The UAE's retail sales of fresh food are projected to rise from US$ 9.75 billion in 2025, at a CAGR of 4.7% through 2030. The meat category leads at US$ 3.1 billion in 2025, with a growth rate of 5.1% CAGR, followed closely by vegetables at US$ 2.7 billion, with a CAGR of 4.8%.

Packaged Food Market Projections

Packaged food sales are predicted to grow from US$ 7.68 billion in 2025, achieving a 5.4% CAGR through 2030. Staple foods represent US$ 2.7 billion and are expected to rise at a 6% CAGR, while dairy products forecast US$ 2.3 billion, with a 4.7% CAGR.

Beverages Market Growth

Retail sales of soft drinks are set to hit US$ 4.5 billion by 2030, marking a growth of 6.1% CAGR. The ready-to-drink tea and coffee segments are the fastest-growing, with tea projected to grow at a 9% CAGR and coffee at 8.3% CAGR.

The briefing by the Dubai International Chamber reinforced that with strong growth, strategic investments, and competitive advantages, the UAE continues to be a prime destination for global food and beverage enterprises.