Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, toured the 31st edition of Gulfood, the world's largest and most influential food and beverage sourcing and innovation event, currently held at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed's visit coincides with Gulfood's largest expansion to date, featuring over 8,500 exhibitors from around 195 countries and showcasing more than 1.5 million food and beverage products. This extensive participation underscores Gulfood's significant role as a global platform connecting producers, markets, and innovators. The event serves as a crucial meeting point within the international food ecosystem and supply chain. The exhibition is scheduled to run until 30 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with a parallel programme at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City Dubai.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed affirmed the UAE's ongoing commitment to supporting the development of the global food sector. He highlighted the country's efforts in fostering an integrated environment that promotes innovation, the adoption of modern technologies, and enhanced efficiency across production and trade. The goal is to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of food systems.
He also remarked that the robust international participation at Gulfood demonstrates confidence in Dubai as a global business hub and a venue for major industry exhibitions. This participation reinforces the emirate's role in connecting markets, improving supply chain efficiency, and supporting a sector that significantly contributes to global economic growth.
During his visit, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. They toured various country and company pavilions participating in the event.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the latest food products, innovative solutions, and advanced technologies aimed at supporting the development and sustainability of the food industry. He also engaged with exhibitors, receiving briefings on future sector trends, the role of innovation in enhancing supply chain efficiency, and the evolving demands of global markets.