Gulfood 2024: Transformative global event led by food futurists shaping the industry's future.

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has officially announced that Gulfood 2024, the world's largest food and beverage sourcing event, is scheduled to take place from 19-23 February. The event is set to host a record-breaking 5,500+ exhibitors and visitors from over 190 countries across 24 halls. This significant gathering is highly anticipated as it will serve as a pivotal moment for the global F&B community to come together and discuss the future of the industry.

Global attention has shifted towards the transformation of food systems on an international scale. Policymakers and F&B industry leaders are exploring ways to feed the growing global population while building resilience and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Gulfood 2024 will be a key platform for discussions on innovations in ag-tech, the increasing use of AI in food production, and strategies to reduce food loss and waste.

Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre, highlighted that Gulfood 2024 will be the first opportunity for the global F&B industry to gather and gain insights from leading food futurists. The event is expected to provide a unique platform for identifying business opportunities and forging partnerships as the industry enters a new era defined by paradigm-shifting technology like AI.

Technological advancements have been transforming the food market, with AI playing a crucial role in accelerating innovation and influencing consumer behavior. The next decade is predicted to see a continuation of this transformation, impacting how we understand human health, consumer behavior, and demographic patterns. Tom Cheesewright, an Applied Futurist and Inspire Conference Speaker, emphasized the fascinating developments expected in the future of food.


A SHOWCASE FOR REAL FOOD, A PLATFORM FOR REAL BUSINESS

Gulfood 2024 will operate under the theme 'Real Food, Real Business,' bringing together global brands, both established and new exhibitors, to showcase authentic food products, ingredients, and culinary practices. The event is anticipated to facilitate significant business connections and commercial deals, with an estimated value exceeding USD 12 billion.

Leading brands participating in Gulfood 2024 include Agthia, Al Ain Dairy, Americana, Dilmah, Hype Beverages, Japan Farmed Fish Export Association, JBS, Lactalis, Meat & Poultry Ontario, Monin, Tilda, and Wilmar. Additionally, new country pavilions from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Venezuela will contribute to the event's global representation.

Ghitha Holding, a subsidiary of International Holding Company PJSC, expressed excitement about welcoming visitors, business partners, and government officials to Gulfood 2024. The company sees the event as an opportunity for collaboration and business growth, particularly with a focus on sustainability across the region.


BE INSPIRED BY F&B THOUGHT LEADERS

The Gulfood Inspire Conference is set to dive into a range of trending topics, including the tech-powered future of digitalization, innovations, circular food systems, investment opportunities, and a global food system centered on safety, security, and transparency. Over 200 industry leaders, including ministers, entrepreneurs, chefs, scientists, and futurists, will lead engaging sessions, providing insights into the future of the F&B industry.

Prominent speakers confirmed for the Inspire Conference include Jacob Jensen, Gary Urteaga, Dr. Anna El Tahchy, Tony Hunter, Daniel Levine, Dr. Morgaine Gaye, Tom Cheesewright, Bill McDowell, and more. The conference is expected to unlock new opportunities for growth and competitiveness in the industry.


MICHELIN STAR CHEFS MAKE DUBAI DEBUT IN WORLD’S LARGEST LIVE CHEF SHOWCASE

Top Table, a popular feature returning to Gulfood 2024, will present a line-up of internationally renowned chefs showcasing traditional cooking methods, authentic ingredients, and the stories behind beloved dishes. Over 100 chefs, including those with over 21 Michelin stars collectively, will participate in masterclasses and chef talks.

The Dubai World Cuisine movement, launched during the previous edition of Gulfood, will also make a comeback. This initiative includes a series of city-wide dinner collaborations, providing a platform for homegrown chefs to collaborate with culinary icons from around the world, shaping Dubai's cultural identity on the global culinary map.


WATCH THE CULINARY STARS OF THE FUTURE

The YouthX Chef Challenge, a platform empowering promising F&B talent, returns for its third edition at Gulfood 2024. The international grand finale will feature teams from leading restaurants and hotels competing for an internship at an international 3-Michelin star restaurant.

Gulfood 2024 continues to attract interest from top brands in Dairy, Beverage, Fats & Oils, Pulses & Grains, Meat & Poultry, Power Brands, Ready-To-Eat, Bakery, and World Food categories. The event is poised to drive innovation, sustainability, and progress in the global F&B ecosystem.

Source: Emirate 24/7

Image: Emirate 24/7