Wales was represented at Gulfood 2026 by its largest delegation to the event to date. Supported by the Welsh Government, 19 companies from Wales attended the exhibition in Dubai from 26–30 January to meet international buyers and explore export opportunities in MENA and beyond.
Gulfood’s 31st edition took place across Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. The event brought together more than 8,500 exhibitors from 195 countries.
Why the MENA market matters
After the European Union, the Middle East and North Africa region is the second-largest market for food and drink from Wales. The latest figures cited by Business Wales show that £64 million of goods were exported to the region in 2024.
Across all markets, the value of Welsh food and drink exports has grown by 47% since 2019, representing £839 million in sales to the Welsh economy.
Welsh businesses at Gulfood 2026
The delegation included dairy producers Rachel’s Dairy, First Milk/Golden Hooves and Dairy Partners. Bloomin Foods, Euro Foods and Sheriffs Biltong Ltd were among the brands exhibiting in the International Hall.
Rachel’s Organic showcased its award-winning yogurts and desserts, produced to certified organic standards. Sheriffs Biltong presented high-protein, air-dried beef snacks made in west Wales using PGI Welsh Beef and natural ingredients.
Building trade relationships
The delegation brought together established exporters and companies new to the market. They met buyers from around the world to explore export opportunities and build their presence in the region and beyond.
Gulfood also allowed Welsh producers to continue relationships formed at Blas Cymru / Taste Wales 2025, where many MENA buyers first met them. More than £45 million in potential sales had been registered within weeks of that event.
Welsh food on the stand
The Cymru Wales stand hosted live cooking demonstrations and tastings. Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales chef Elwen Roberts prepared canapés featuring Welsh ingredients on 27 and 28 January.
Sources
Business Wales — Wales to showcase world-class food and drink at Gulfood 2026
Business Wales — Gulfood, Dubai
Gulfood — Dubai becomes the global headquarters of food trade as Gulfood 2026 delivers 100% more scale, suppliers, business and innovation
