Countdown Begins for World of Coffee Dubai 2026
60 days to go until the biggest coffee industry event in the Middle East
Dubai — Qahwa World
DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), has announced the return of World of Coffee Dubai for its fifth edition, taking place from 18 to 20 January 2026 at Za’abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, and 6 at DWTC.
Organised by DXB LIVE in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the event has rapidly grown into the leading coffee industry exhibition in the Middle East, attracting producers, roasters, traders, and experts from around the globe. The 2026 edition promises to build on this success, further cementing Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for coffee trade, culture, and innovation.
Since its inception, World of Coffee Dubai has quadrupled in size, reflecting the region’s rapidly expanding coffee landscape. International exhibitors now represent approximately 77% of total participants, highlighting the confidence of the global coffee community in Dubai as a key meeting point for business, innovation, and collaboration.
The timing of the event aligns with the strong growth of the UAE’s coffee market, currently valued at over USD 3.2 billion (AED 12 billion) and projected to expand by 8.4% annually, reaching USD 4.5 billion (AED 16.5 billion) by 2029. Across the MENA region, the coffee market is expected to surpass USD 11 billion (AED 40 billion) within the same period. This growth is driven by rising demand for specialty coffee, evolving consumer preferences, and sustained investments in quality, sustainability, and technology—all of which will be reflected in the enhanced 2026 edition of the exhibition.
Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE, commented: “This exhibition embodies the UAE’s vision to be a global hub for specialty coffee, bridging producing regions and fast-growing markets. With participation expanding each year, World of Coffee Dubai has become an international platform uniting leading experts, brands, and innovators—reflecting Dubai’s spirit of innovation and reaffirming its pivotal role in shaping the future of the coffee industry both regionally and globally.”
Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, added: “World of Coffee Dubai has become one of the key events where the global coffee community comes together under one roof. Each new edition strengthens its position as an exceptional international showcase, thanks to the outstanding calibre of participants who help define the future of specialty coffee.”
Khalid Al Mulla, CEO of the SCA UAE Chapter, highlighted the event’s educational dimension: “What distinguishes World of Coffee Dubai is its commitment to learning and knowledge exchange. It’s more than a marketplace—it’s a place where ideas are shared, skills are refined, and partnerships are built, creating a sustainable and thriving ecosystem for the coffee industry.”
The 2026 edition will feature the most diverse and inclusive program to date, including three national coffee championships—the UAE National Barista Championship, UAE National Cup Tasters Championship, and UAE National Roasting Championship—alongside the Best Coffee Design Awards, the Best New Product Competition, and two exclusive coffee auctions showcasing some of the world’s rarest beans.
World of Coffee Dubai continues to celebrate coffee culture, foster innovation, and connect tradition with progress. Exhibitors can now secure their spaces, and early-bird tickets for visitors are available through the official website: dubai.worldofcoffee.org
.With just 60 days to go, the countdown is officially on—coffee enthusiasts, professionals, and industry leaders from across the globe are preparing for three days of innovation, competitions, networking, and world-class knowledge sharing in the heart of Dubai.
