Dubai: DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre, in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association, has announced the success of the fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai 2026. This edition recorded significant results, reinforcing Dubai's status as a regional hub for the specialty coffee trade. The company confirmed that the sixth edition will take place from 26th to 28th January 2027 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
According to Emirates News Agency, the 2026 edition achieved unprecedented figures, attracting over 20,000 trade visits from industry professionals across more than 80 countries. The event saw participation from over 2,100 companies and brands from 78 countries, alongside nine national pavilions, making it the largest event globally within the World of Coffee exhibition series to date.
The event was notable for the quality of attendance, with industry professionals accounting for 83 percent of total visitors, and international participation exceeding 70 percent. Notably, 63 percent of visitors attended for the first time, showcasing the event's expanding global reach. Additionally, 68 percent of attendees were decision makers and purchasing managers, with 60 percent reporting successful deals or new agreements and partnerships.
Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE, emphasized the milestone achieved by World of Coffee Dubai, highlighting its role as a platform for closing deals, launching products, discovering new sourcing opportunities, announcing commercial partnerships, and honoring winners of local and international championships.
Shouq bin Redha, Exhibition Manager, noted that this year's event reestablished its position as a comprehensive platform that integrates knowledge, networking, and innovation. The event saw increased interest from industry specialists, decision makers, and global brands, along with high-quality participation that mirrors the maturity of the specialty coffee sector in the region.
During the event, 14 memorandums of understanding and partnership agreements were signed among 23 companies, entities, and organizations. These included the renewal of the partnership between the Specialty Coffee Association and DXB LIVE to organize the exhibition for five additional years through 2031. A three-year agreement between DXB LIVE and the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to organize the Bahrain Coffee Festival was also signed, along with several other local, regional, and international cooperation agreements, further enhancing the exhibition's presence beyond the UAE.
More than 90 percent of exhibitors have confirmed their intention to return, with 50 percent of the sixth edition's exhibition space already reserved during the event, reflecting strong confidence in the event's continued growth and future success.