Dubai became the global meeting point for the coffee industry as World of Coffee Dubai 2026 returned in January, drawing leaders, innovators, and professionals from across the international coffee community for one of the most significant trade events in the calendar.
A Record-Breaking Fifth Edition
Organised by DXB LIVE in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the prestigious event ran from 18 to 20 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Recognised as one of the largest coffee trade events in the world, it serves as a vital platform for collaboration, learning, and business growth.
The fifth edition delivered record-breaking results: more than 2,100 companies and brands from 78 countries participated, making it the largest World of Coffee exhibition globally to date.
Three Days of Coffee, Competition and Innovation
Over three days, World of Coffee Dubai 2026 hosted a diverse programme featuring exhibitions, expert-led discussions, live demonstrations, competitions, and industry awards. The event also hosted the 2026 Cezve/Ibrik Championship, marking the opening stage of the 2026 World Coffee Championships season.
The event welcomed coffee producers, roasters, traders, café owners, equipment manufacturers, and industry experts from across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. A record 76 producers participated, with Kenya and Peru joining national pavilions for the first time alongside Ethiopia, India, Saudi Arabia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Panama, and Brazil.
Global Reach, Local Impact
More than 20,000 trade visits were recorded from professionals representing over 80 countries. Industry professionals accounted for 83% of total visitors, with international participation exceeding 70% — and notably, 63% of attendees were first-time visitors to the event.
Beyond commercial networking, World of Coffee Dubai 2026 celebrated coffee culture through craftsmanship and sensory experience. The Producers Village featured 14 curated spaces highlighting diverse terroirs, processing methods, and farm-level perspectives from across the coffee belt.
Dubai's Growing Role in the Coffee World
Dubai's strategic position continues to make it an ideal venue for international trade events. With more than 90% of exhibitors already confirming their return and 50% of the sixth edition's exhibition space reserved during the show itself, the event's momentum signals Dubai's deepening role at the heart of global specialty coffee.
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 reinforced the UAE's standing as a premier destination for trade, innovation, and cultural exchange — one cup at a time.
