In a significant display of commitment to global food industry development, the United Arab Emirates continues to take strides that reinforce its status as a central hub for trade and innovation. The recent visit by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to the 31st edition of the Gulfood exhibition highlights the UAE’s ongoing support for the global food industry. With over 8,500 exhibitors from nearly 195 countries participating, the event serves as a testament to the UAE’s dedication to fostering an inclusive platform for food producers and innovators alike.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, visited the event at the Dubai World Trade Centre, which stands as a prominent global gathering in the food and beverage sector. This year’s Gulfood, the largest in its history, showcases more than 1.5 million products across various food industry categories, solidifying its role as a key player in the global food market and supply chain.
During his visit, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that the UAE is steadfast in its support for developing the global food industry. He remarked on the need for an integrated environment that adapts to the ongoing transformations within the sector, fostering innovation and embracing modern technologies to improve production efficiency, trade, and the resilience of the food system. This comprehensive approach is crucial for ensuring sustainability that benefits economies and communities globally.
Sheikh Mohammed praised the extensive international participation at Gulfood, which reflects a strong global confidence in Dubai as a primary venue for major business events. “The exhibition establishes our emirate as a global platform for connecting markets, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and supporting a vital sector that is one of the core drivers of global economic growth,” he stated.
Accompanying Sheikh Mohammed on his tour were prominent figures, including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. Together, they explored various international exhibits, examining the latest food products and innovative solutions that support the development and sustainability of the global food industry.
Among the highlights of his visit was the Dutch pavilion, showcasing advanced food products and innovative solutions that reflect the Netherlands’ leadership in sustainable agriculture and food technologies. Sheikh Mohammed learned about the adoption of modern techniques to enhance production efficiency and improve the quality of food products aimed at global markets. The visit also included Japan’s exhibition, featuring an array of innovative food solutions characterized by precision manufacturing and a strong focus on quality and food safety. Sheikh Mohammed was impressed by product examples illustrating Japan’s progress in developing value-added foods to meet the evolving demands of global markets.
The exploration continued at the Italian pavilion, showcasing the rich diversity of its food industries, renowned for their high quality and deep-rooted industrial heritage. The discussions highlighted modern innovations in manufacturing and packaging, emphasizing the role of Italian companies in enhancing their presence in international markets and expanding commercial partnerships.
As the largest and most representative edition of Gulfood to date, the event serves as a unifying platform for global food economies. Key producing markets, including Egypt, India, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Turkey, and the United States, have reinforced their brand representation with unprecedented participation from national brands. The event also facilitated new trade pathways with countries making their first-time appearances, such as Libya, Luxembourg, Rwanda, Slovakia, Sweden, and Uganda, further contributing to global economic growth.