Gulfood 2025: 30 Years of F&B Excellence and Innovation
Global F&B CEOs, policymakers, investors, visionaries and academics unite across inaugural Food500 Summit to explore a new era of F&B leadership.
The 30th edition of Gulfood is set to commence on February 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), welcoming tens of thousands of attendees. This globally renowned event will feature over 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries, including top executives, policymakers, investors, and industry pioneers. Under the theme "The Next Frontier in Food," the event is expected to generate trade deals worth USD 20 billion, fostering groundbreaking collaborations within the industry. A key highlight will be the opening keynote on Day 2, delivered by H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, at the inaugural Food500 Summit, emphasizing the UAE’s strategic role in global trade and the economic impact of Gulfood.
Food500 Summit: Industry Leaders Shaping the Future of Food
The highly anticipated Food500 Summit will serve as a platform for key decision-makers to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities within the global food supply chain. Among the prominent speakers are:
> Ananya Narayan, CEO of Hunter Foods
> Dr. Edwini Kessie, Director of the Agriculture and Commodities Division, World Trade Organization (Switzerland)
> Alvyn Severien, CEO of Montaigne Nutrition & Co-founder of Algama (France)
> Tisha Livingston, CEO of Infinite Acres (USA)
> Daniel Levine, a leading global trends expert
H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, said: “The selection of the food cluster as the first economic cluster to be developed by the UAE highlights the importance the country attaches to the sector as a key driver of economic diversification. The food cluster strategy aims to ensure self-sufficiency in food production and enhance the food ecosystem management through supporting agricultural enterprises and increasing local production. The initiative will not only help us meet local market needs but will also position the UAE as a leading food exporter to key regional and global markets and support the goals of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, such as increasing the national GDP to AED 3 trillion by the next decade.”
“Against this backdrop, the landmark edition of Gulfood will serve as an ideal platform for partnerships and discussions, presenting opportunities for knowledge exchange and networking across industries, thus fostering a foundation for setting and accomplishing future objectives within the global trade community,” H.E. added.
This summit will provide a space for high-impact discussions, setting the course for innovative strategies in food sustainability and security.
Gulfood Innovation Awards: Showcasing Revolutionary Trends in F&B
The Gulfood Innovation Awards will spotlight groundbreaking food and beverage (F&B) advancements, celebrating revolutionary products, technologies, and ideas shaping the future of the industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore hundreds of thousands of innovative products, with exhibitors presenting cutting-edge developments that define the next phase of global food production and consumption.
“Our participation in Gulfood’s 30th edition supports our strategic direction towards our vision to become the number one global halal sustainable healthy protein company by 2030. This prestigious event allows us to showcase our latest innovations, connect with industry leaders, and drive meaningful progress in food solutions. Being shortlisted for the Gulfood Innovation Awards further underscores our commitment to excellence and pioneering advancements in the protein industry. Congratulations to Gulfood on 30 years of remarkable success. Your continuous growth and innovation have set new benchmarks for the global food industry, making Gulfood a premier platform for connection, collaboration, and progress.” said Marcos Delorenzo, CEO of ADC, Tanmiah’s Poultry Division.
Top Table: A Culinary Experience Led by Alain Ducasse
Gulfood 2024 brings a special highlight with the arrival of culinary icon Alain Ducasse, marking his first-ever appearance in the UAE. Holding an impressive 21 Michelin star, Ducasse is renowned for pioneering sustainability in gastronomy. At Top Table, he will lead Dubai World Cuisine activations, offering valuable insights into the future of culinary artistry.
Chef Alain Ducasse commented: “With Top Table at Gulfood, Dubai demonstrates its incredible momentum in attracting the most brilliant talents from all over the world. I’m proud to be part of this event with Chef Romain Meder. First in conducting a masterclass together at Top Table and hosting exclusive dinners at Takahisa. Yet also in meeting with my fellow chefs and the public, sharing our experiences and thus contributing to the rapidly evolving gastronomy scene in the region.”
This edition of Top Table, sponsored by the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), will host over 120 global and local chefs who collectively boast more than 50 Michelin stars. Attendees will witness live masterclasses, interactive cooking demonstrations, and exclusive tasting sessions, showcasing the best of international cuisine made with ingredients from the exhibition floor.
Dubai World Cuisine: A Celebration of Culinary Excellence
As part of the Dubai World Cuisine initiative, Gulfood attendees will have exclusive access to a series of fine dining experiences featuring elite chefs collaborating across Dubai’s most acclaimed restaurants. The program includes 4-hand and 6-hand gourmet collaborations, with a special 8-hand experience, hosted at venues such as:
- Krasota
- Takahisa
- Avatara
- Lowe
- Armani Ristorante
- Orfali Bros
- Armani Amal
This initiative showcases Dubai’s ascent as a global culinary powerhouse, offering food enthusiasts a taste of world-class innovation and craftsmanship.
Discovery Tours: A Guided Journey into Global Food Innovation
For those looking to maximize their Gulfood experience, the Discovery Tours provide a unique hour-long guided exploration of the event. These five curated sector-themed tours offer an immersive look into the latest global food trends, technological advancements, and industry insights, ensuring attendees gain expert knowledge while navigating the expansive exhibition.
With its 30th-anniversary milestone, Gulfood 2024 promises to be a transformative event, setting new standards for food innovation, trade, and global collaboration.
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