World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concluded with record participation and significant commercial outcomes, reinforcing Dubai’s growing influence as a global hub for the specialty coffee industry.
Organised by DXB LIVE in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association, the fifth edition attracted thousands of industry professionals and set new benchmarks for the international exhibition series.
Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the event recorded more than 20,000 trade visits from professionals representing over 80 countries. More than 2,100 companies and brands from 78 nations participated alongside nine national pavilions, making it the largest edition in the global World of Coffee exhibition portfolio to date.
Attendance quality remained a defining feature, with industry professionals accounting for 83 percent of visitors and international participation exceeding 70 percent. Organisers reported that 63 percent of attendees were first-time visitors, highlighting the exhibition’s expanding global reach. Decision makers and purchasing managers represented 68 percent of participants, while 60 percent confirmed closing deals or forming new partnerships during the event.
Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE, said the exhibition’s success was reflected in tangible business outcomes, including product launches, sourcing opportunities, and commercial agreements. Exhibition Manager Shouq bin Redha noted growing engagement from global brands and specialists, underscoring the maturity of the regional specialty coffee sector.
During the event, 14 memorandums of understanding were signed among 23 organisations. Agreements included a five-year renewal between DXB LIVE and the Specialty Coffee Association through 2031 and a three-year partnership with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to organise the Bahrain Coffee Festival.
More than 90 percent of exhibitors confirmed plans to return, while half of the exhibition space for the next edition, scheduled for 26 to 28 January 2027, was reserved during the event, signalling strong industry confidence in its continued growth.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
