Dubai: 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, scheduled for 18 - 20 January 2026 at Za'abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, and 6 of the Dubai World Trade Centre.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event is organized by DXB LIVE in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and has quickly become the Middle East's leading coffee industry event. It unites producers, roasters, traders, and experts from across the globe. The 2026 edition aims to build on the success of previous years, reinforcing Dubai's status as an international hub for coffee trade, culture, and knowledge exchange.
Since its inception, World of Coffee Dubai has experienced significant growth, reflecting the dynamic coffee landscape of the region. Statistics show that international participants account for about 77% of total exhibitors, indicating the global coffee community's confidence in the event and its growing international reputation.
The exhibition comes at a time when the coffee industry in the UAE and the wider region is on the rise. The UAE coffee market is currently valued at over USD 3.2 billion (approximately AED 12 billion) and is expected to grow by 8.4% annually, reaching USD 4.5 billion (around AED 16.5 billion) by 2029. Across the Middle East and North Africa, the market is projected to surpass USD 11 billion (over AED 40 billion) within the same period.
This growth is driven by increasing demand for specialty coffee, changing consumer preferences, and greater investment in quality, sustainability, and innovation. These trends are reflected in this year's expanded and dynamic edition.
The event will also offer a series of educational workshops and seminars, covering various aspects of the coffee industry and promoting a culture of innovation within the global coffee community.
Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB Live, emphasized that the exhibition represents the ongoing success of the vision that has made the UAE a global hub for the specialty coffee industry. He noted that the event has become an international platform that brings together leading experts, brands, and innovators, underscoring Dubai's spirit of innovation.
Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), remarked that World of Coffee Dubai has become a leading event where the global coffee community gathers, bringing together culture, innovation, and commerce. He highlighted the importance of the partnership with DXB Live and the Dubai World Trade Centre in ensuring the event's success.
Khalid Al Mulla, CEO of the SCA UAE Chapter, added that World of Coffee Dubai is committed to education and knowledge exchange. He emphasized that the event is a space where ideas are shared, skills are refined, and partnerships are built, contributing to a thriving and sustainable ecosystem for the coffee industry.
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 will present its most comprehensive program to date, featuring cutting-edge products, roasting and brewing technologies, and global coffee innovations. Key highlights include national championships, the Best Coffee Design Awards, and the Best New Product Competition, along with coffee auctions offering rare and fine coffee beans.
The 2026 edition marks a new chapter in the event's growth, bringing together a diverse range of participants, features, and experiences.