Enjoying the treats of the world’s biggest food and drink show has never been so convenient. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, and certainly one of the most eagerly-anticipated events on any food lover’s calendar, Gulfood attracts almost 100,000 visitors over five days.
With no fewer than four comfortable Premier Inn Hotels located within 20 minutes of the venue, you can enjoy this gastronomic extravaganza and return to friendly and familiar surroundings at the end of the day. If you’ve never been before, the Gulfood show is an extraordinary event; let’s have a look at what you can expect.
The Appetite for Gulfood
Gulfood was launched 23 years ago, to encourage trade within the food and beverage industry between over 120 participating countries. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) imports more than 80% of its food products, and more than half of these are re-exported to East Africa, parts of the Indian subcontinent, and Gulf Cooperation Council countries such as Qatar and Oman.
Gulfood not only attracts buyers from these countries, but from across North Africa and the Middle East, too. In turn, this allows over 5000 producers to put the spotlight on the ingredients that are helping to forge the future of the food and beverage industry.
Culinary Concepts and Breaking Trends
Without doubt, the food is the star of the show. Visitors to Gulfood are given a taste of new and innovative culinary concepts, from gourmet and specialist foods to exotic ingredients and exclusive produce. Expect to taste dishes that are deliciously unfamiliar, as well as firm favourites, served up with a 21st Century twist.
However, this is much more than a palate-pleasing exercise: the foods on show help food and beverage professionals to identify burgeoning trends within the industry and introduce them to even more people.
Indonesian flavours, floral notes, and umami are just three of the trends set for 2018. In addition, holding such an exciting event in one venue gives visitors the chance to connect with producers and tap into up and coming markets.
More than just a Food Show
In addition to the gastronomic delights on offer, the latest in food technologies and equipment are showcased, giving attendees valuable insights into the way the industry is progressing. There’s also the chance to hear leading industry professionals sharing their expert opinions on a variety of subjects, concerning the food and beverage world, in a series of spoken events. In 2017, some of the topics addressed included global food security, Halal food, and the ways in which food is manufactured.
To entertain visitors there are some superb spectacles to enjoy, such as the live cooking competition, held in the Emirates Salon Culinaire.
Coffee and Culinary Excellence
It’s not just about what you can eat: the Gulfood Za’abeel Hall 4 will host the 2018 Cezve/Ibrik Championship. In essence, this is a competition designed to bring some of the suppliers of the world’s best coffee together and see them cooking up a brew, using one of the oldest methods known to man.
As far as networking goes, there’s no better opportunity to be had than at the Gulfood Innovation Awards ceremony. Scrutinised by the media, with over 300 entrants and boasting a prestigious panel of industry-leading judges, this is where those who want to be part of the scene come to be seen. The ceremony is held over an outstanding gala dinner; part of a night of glamour and culinary excellence.
Staying at a Premier Inn
This annual event is also a chance for you to discover the comforts of Premier Inn, which offers comfortable, affordable, and convenient accommodation close to the centre. With dedicated minibuses laid on, and a warm, friendly welcome from the moment you step through the door, staying at a Premier Inn is bound to enrich your visit to Dubai, as well as making an excellent base from which to truly experience everything the Gulfood 2018 event has to offer.