Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, on Tuesday toured the 28th edition of Gulfood, the largest annual global food and beverage sourcing event in the world, being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Hamdan said that Dubai is on track to achieve the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and realise the ambitious vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make Dubai one of the top three cities in the world. Global business events hosted by Dubai, which include some of the world’s largest trade shows in key sectors like Gulfood 2023, support the leadership’s vision by offering a focal point for industry professionals from across the world to discuss new ideas, trends and opportunities shaping the future of the worldwide economy, he added. The vast number of visitors that these events attract from around the globe is a testament to the world-class infrastructure, connectivity, logistics capabilities and services that Dubai offers.

“As a pivotal commercial hub, Dubai is committed to provide platforms for diverse global industries to share knowledge, unlock new growth opportunities, and forge productive partnerships to accelerate development. A city at the forefront of driving global economic progress, Dubai is a preferred venue for decision makers, thought leaders and innovators across industries to gather together to discuss how they can chart new pathways for growth, enterprise and innovation,” Sheikh  Hamdan said.

He toured various stands at the exhibition, which has brought together F&B communities from across the world. The 28th edition of the mega event is 30% larger than previous years, with 1,500 of its over 5,000 exhibitors new to the trade show. The event, being held from 20 - 24 February, features 125 country pavilions and showcases more than 100,000 products. His Highness was briefed at the event about various innovative products displayed by local and international companies and the latest F&B products and services.

Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Gulfood, the largest annual global food and beverage sourcing event in the world, is being held from 20-24 February 2023. Gulfood has become a major event in Dubai’s food scene, showcasing its culinary prowess and diverse food industry. It has cemented the city’s position as the food capital of the world. In the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, the event will have a special emphasis on sustainable initiatives and unveil several projects aimed at promoting sustainability.

Gulfood 2023 has launched its new global sustainability initiative, Gulfood Green, to promote more sustainable food production and consumption. The event presents topics related to sustainability, such as reducing food waste and building a more sustainable food business. Gulfood has also launched its international tree-planting campaign called Gulfood Forest to help conserve, restore, and grow trees globally, thereby reducing carbon emissions.

Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, said: “Following the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who has announced ‘environment and sustainability’ among the UAE’s top 5 priorities for 2023, we are proud to be launching several sustainability initiatives at Gulfood 2023.

“In the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, these initiatives will help to promote responsible and sustainable practices across the F&B industry in Dubai and beyond. From reducing food waste and promoting healthy eating to sourcing sustainable ingredients and reducing carbon footprints, these initiatives will help to ensure that Dubai remains at the forefront of the global food and beverage industry, while also supporting the city’s wider sustainability goals.

“We believe that sustainability is not just an obligation, but a responsibility, and we are committed to working closely with our partners and stakeholders to create a more sustainable future for our city and our planet. We look forward to continuing to drive innovation, excellence and sustainability across the F&B industry, and to welcoming visitors from around the world to experience the very best that our city has to offer.”

The 28th edition of the show is 30% larger than the previous edition, with more than 5,000 confirmed exhibitors, including 1,500 first-time exhibitors. The event brings together F&B communities from around the world in Dubai to discuss the future of the rapidly evolving sector. This year, Gulfood Plus, a new hall with 10,000 sqm of added floorspace, has been introduced, where first-time exhibitors are showcasing product innovations.

Gulfood Green Awards will also be held to recognise excellence in sustainability across the F&B industry. The Gulfood Inspire Conference, which includes ministers, F&B leaders, entrepreneurs, civil society, and industry experts, will discuss sustainable food production, food security, nutrition education, waste reduction, securing international supply chains, and food service trends.