World of Coffee Trade Show Highlights the Gulf’s Strong Coffee Culture
The rich aroma of coffee has woven through the social fabric of the Middle East for centuries, from the ceremonial preparation in traditional majlis gatherings to the lively buzz of modern urban cafes. This deep-rooted culture is now entering an exciting new phase of growth and sophistication, a momentum powerfully captured by the fifth edition of the World of Coffee trade show in Dubai from January 18-20.
The numbers tell a compelling story of passion. In Saudi Arabia alone, daily coffee consumption soars past 36 million cups, served in more than 5,100 branded cafes. This is far more than a caffeine habit; it is a cornerstone of hospitality and connection. “Saudi coffee has a very distinct identity rooted in heritage, ritual, and hospitality,” explains Shouq Bin Redha, Exhibition Manager for World of Coffee Dubai 2026. “Its profile is closely tied to traditional preparation methods and regional flavor preferences, which sets it apart on the global stage.”
This unique identity will be on full display as Saudi Arabia hosts a dedicated national pavilion at the event, showcasing a sector that is rapidly evolving. “There is increasing investment in quality, education, and presentation, alongside renewed interest in origin storytelling and cultural context,” Redha notes, highlighting the balance between honoring tradition and embracing modernization.
A Global Gathering Ground
Organized by DXB LIVE in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association, World of Coffee Dubai has itself experienced remarkable growth, expanding from 5,000 square meters in 2022 to over 20,000 square meters this year. It has become the essential nexus for the global coffee community, bringing together producers, traders, roasters, cafe owners, and innovators.
“At its core, the event is about bringing together the full coffee value chain in one place,” says Redha. “We want participants to leave not only having discovered new products or origins, but with stronger partnerships, clearer market insight, and a deeper understanding of how the industry is evolving.”
The Gulf region, with the UAE’s coffee market valued at over $3.2 billion, presents an exceptionally attractive landscape. Dubai, a city renowned for its dense and diverse cafe scene, acts as a dynamic gateway. “For producers, World of Coffee Dubai provides direct access not only to local buyers, but to an international audience that uses the city as a regional and global trading hub,” Redha explains.
Trends Shaping the Future Cup
As the market matures, consumer tastes are becoming more refined and inquisitive. Redha anticipates this will translate into clear trends at the show and beyond. She expects “continued diversification in sourcing, with buyers exploring a broader range of origins and flavor profiles.”
Alongside this quest for new tastes is a growing demand for integrity and transparency. There is a marked “interest in coffees that offer greater transparency, whether through direct trade relationships, clearer traceability, or stronger sustainability credentials.”
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 is more than a trade show; it is a testament to a region that both honors its history as a birthplace of coffee culture and confidently shapes its future. It is where the timeless ritual of the brew meets cutting-edge innovation, and where every bean tells a story of heritage, community, and global connection. For anyone involved in the world of coffee, it is the place to understand what comes next.
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