His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today visited the fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai, one of the world’s leading specialty coffee exhibitions. The event is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre and runs from January 18 to January 20, 2026.
The visit highlights Dubai’s growing role as a global hub for the coffee trade, innovation, and culture, as well as the emirate’s commitment to supporting international exhibitions that bring together businesses, entrepreneurs, and creatives from around the world.
High-Level Delegation Tours the Exhibition
Senior Leadership حضور
During the visit, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee.
Together, they toured several pavilions across the exhibition halls, reviewing a wide range of displays showcasing coffee products, equipment, technology, and innovations from across the global coffee value chain.
Engagement With Exhibitors
The delegation met with exhibitors and industry representatives, gaining insights into the latest trends shaping the specialty coffee sector. Exhibits ranged from premium coffee beans and roasting solutions to brewing technologies, sustainability initiatives, and café concepts.
The visit underscored the leadership’s support for creative industries and international trade platforms hosted in Dubai.
World of Coffee Dubai Reaches New Milestones
Largest and Most Diverse Edition Yet
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 marks the largest edition of the exhibition since its launch. The event brings together more than 2,100 exhibiting companies and brands from 78 countries, making it the most internationally diverse edition to date.
This record participation reflects the growing importance of the Middle East as a key market and meeting point for the global coffee industry.
Global Industry Under One Roof
From coffee-producing nations to consumer markets, the exhibition connects farmers, traders, roasters, equipment manufacturers, café owners, and investors. The diversity of participants highlights Dubai’s ability to convene global industries and foster cross-border collaboration.
Organisers Highlight Economic Impact
Briefing on Scale and Significance
During the tour, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, on the scale, economic impact, and global reach of the exhibition.
Almarri outlined how World of Coffee Dubai contributes to the growth of the hospitality, food and beverage, and events sectors, while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a preferred destination for major international exhibitions.
Role of DXB LIVE and SCA
The event is organised by DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre, in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association.
This partnership ensures that the exhibition meets international standards and remains closely aligned with the evolving needs of the global specialty coffee community.
Dubai’s Rising Profile in the Global Coffee Industry
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Dubai’s geographic location, world-class logistics infrastructure, and business-friendly environment make it an ideal gateway for global coffee trade between Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
Events such as World of Coffee Dubai strengthen the emirate’s role as a regional and global centre for coffee trading, roasting, distribution, and innovation.
Supporting Entrepreneurship and SMEs
The exhibition also provides a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises, startups, and independent roasters to showcase their products and connect with buyers and investors.
By hosting such events, Dubai continues to support entrepreneurship and creative industries that contribute to economic diversification.
Innovation and Sustainability Take Center Stage
Technology Shaping the Coffee Experience
Many exhibitors showcased advanced technologies designed to improve efficiency, quality, and consistency across coffee production and preparation. These included smart roasting systems, precision brewing equipment, and digital tools for café management.
Innovation remains a key driver of growth in the specialty coffee sector, and the exhibition offers a glimpse into how technology is reshaping the industry.
Focus on Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Sustainability was another central theme, with exhibitors highlighting ethical sourcing, environmentally friendly packaging, and initiatives aimed at supporting coffee farmers.
As consumers become more conscious of environmental and social impact, sustainability continues to influence purchasing decisions across the global coffee market.
A Platform for Knowledge and Networking
Education and Industry Dialogue
Beyond exhibitions, World of Coffee Dubai features workshops, panel discussions, and knowledge-sharing sessions led by industry experts. These sessions address topics such as market trends, sustainability challenges, and consumer behavior.
The event serves as a learning platform for professionals at every stage of the coffee value chain.
Building Global Connections
Networking remains one of the exhibition’s most valuable aspects. By bringing together participants from dozens of countries, the event facilitates partnerships, trade deals, and long-term collaborations.
Dubai’s role as a neutral and connected global city enhances its appeal as a meeting point for international business.
Leadership Support for Global Events
Reinforcing Dubai’s Events Strategy
Sheikh Mohammed’s visit reflects the leadership’s continued support for hosting major international exhibitions that contribute to economic growth and global engagement.
Dubai has positioned itself as a leading destination for business events, trade shows, and conferences, supported by advanced infrastructure and efficient event management capabilities.
Long-Term Vision for Economic Diversification
Events like World of Coffee Dubai align with Dubai’s broader vision to diversify its economy by attracting global industries, talent, and investment. The coffee sector, which blends agriculture, technology, hospitality, and retail, fits well within this strategy.
Looking Ahead
Continued Growth Expected
With record participation in 2026, World of Coffee Dubai is expected to continue growing in scale and influence in future editions. The event’s success reflects strong global demand for platforms that connect the specialty coffee community.
Organisers and industry participants alike see Dubai as a long-term home for the exhibition.
Strengthening Dubai’s Global Brand
By hosting globally recognized events across diverse industries, Dubai continues to strengthen its reputation as a city that brings the world together.
World of Coffee Dubai is not just a trade show, but a reflection of the emirate’s ambition to remain at the forefront of global commerce, culture, and innovation.
The Bigger Picture
The visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to World of Coffee Dubai 2026 highlights the importance of the exhibition to Dubai’s economy and global standing. With thousands of exhibitors, international participation, and a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, the event reinforces Dubai’s role as a global hub for the coffee industry.
As the exhibition continues through January 20, it stands as a testament to Dubai’s ability to host world-class events that connect industries, cultures, and ideas from across the globe.
