Author: Qahwa World

Nizam Pasha Lolowang Crowned UAE Roaster of the Year 2026

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Nizam Pasha Lolowang of Espressi has been crowned Roaster of the Year after winning first place in the UAE National Roasting Championship, held as part of World of Coffee Dubai 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The title was awarded in recognition of Luwang’s outstanding performance in roast development, flavour profiling, and consistency, assessed under internationally recognised Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) standards. The championship highlighted technical excellence, precision, and quality across all stages of the roasting process.

Luwang secured first place ahead of Ajeyudu Pathuri of Brewing Gadgets, who finished second, while Raha Shahsavar of Crack Coffee Roastery claimed third place.

The UAE National Roasting Championship was one of four major local and international competitions concluded during the fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai, which welcomed more than 20,000 visits from specialty coffee professionals representing over 80 countries, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading global hub for specialty coffee.

The championship forms part of World of Coffee Dubai’s commitment to advancing professional standards and celebrating excellence within the specialty coffee industry, providing a competitive platform for emerging and established roasting talent in the region.

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concluded its most internationally diverse edition to date and will return to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 26–28 January 2027.

Frederick Adam Rubin Crowned Best Barista in the UAE 2026

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Frederick Adam Rubin from Benchmark Coffee has been named the Best Barista in the United Arab Emirates, following a highly competitive national championship held as part of World of Coffee Dubai 2026. The fifth edition of the exhibition concluded yesterday at the Dubai World Trade Centre, attracting more than 20,000 visitors from over 80 countries.

Rubin’s victory came after a rigorous evaluation process assessing espresso preparation, milk-based beverages, and signature drinks. Nooran Albannay of Coffee Architecture secured second place, while Serkan Sagsoz of Julith Coffee claimed third place.

The UAE National Barista Championship is part of a series of competitions held during the exhibition, which also included the UAE Latte Art Championship, the UAE Roasting Championship, and the international Cezve/Ibrik World Championship. These competitions recognize technical excellence, creativity, and consistency in specialty coffee preparation.

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 also celebrated innovation and design through awards such as Best New Product, won by Sage, and the Coffee Design Award, won by Coffee Market Innovations. In addition, the event hosted three live coffee auctions, setting new price benchmarks and showcasing the diversity of coffee origins available on the global market.

Adam Rubin’s achievement highlights the growing talent within the UAE’s specialty coffee sector and underscores Dubai’s position as a hub for professional excellence, innovation, and trade in the global coffee industry.

Grand Mercure Business Bay Opens in Dubai Under Gulf Hotels Group

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Grand Mercure Business Bay has officially opened its doors in Dubai, marking a new identity for the former Gulf Court Business Bay Hotel, owned and managed by the Gulf Hotels Group (GHG) under the Grand Mercure brand, through a franchise agreement with Accor Group. This launch represents a significant milestone in the hotel’s journey, shaped by Grand Mercure’s unique approach to hospitality, celebrating the beauty of the location while offering the highest standards of luxury and rich cultural experiences that reflect authentic hospitality.

The hotel adheres to world-class hospitality standards and aligns with the character of its vibrant location, showcasing the brand’s philosophy of highlighting local charm through thoughtful details, genuine hospitality, and premium services. The new identity combines modern Dubai vibes with the essence and authenticity of the Business Bay district. Gulf Hotels Group continues to operate the property, leveraging its extensive operational experience, Accor’s strong global presence, loyalty programs, and booking and communication platforms.

Strategically located on Sheikh Zayed Road next to Marasi Drive, in the heart of Business Bay, the hotel is just eight minutes away from Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the city’s key exhibition and business hubs.

The hotel features 270 renovated rooms and suites designed for maximum comfort while preserving the property’s unique character. It also offers four versatile meeting rooms accommodating up to 90 guests, a business lounge, five restaurants, and recreational facilities. Among its highlights is Mediterranean Muse, inspired by the cuisines of the Mediterranean region, set to open in the first quarter of 2026. Guests can also enjoy an outdoor pool terrace overlooking the Business Bay skyline, offering a peaceful retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Ahmed Janahi, CEO of Gulf Hotels Group, said: “This partnership with Accor represents a strategic step reflecting our shared vision to elevate hospitality experiences. Joining the Grand Mercure brand, alongside our continued management of the hotel, strengthens its position in Dubai’s competitive market. It allows us to benefit from Accor’s prestigious brand and global reach through booking and loyalty platforms, meeting guest expectations, enhancing loyalty, and reflecting Gulf Hotels Group’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in hospitality.”

Raki Phillips, Regional President of Accor’s Midscale, Premium, and Economy Hotels in the Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, added:

“Grand Mercure Business Bay is a notable addition to Accor’s portfolio of premium hotels in the UAE. The brand’s philosophy centers on the stories and essence of its destinations, perfectly embodied by this hotel. Our partnership with Gulf Hotels Group merges local heritage, elegant design, and trusted standards sought by Accor guests. We look forward to welcoming guests to a hotel that reflects Dubai’s identity while providing a fresh and inspiring experience.”

The launch aligns with Gulf Hotels Group’s broader strategy to expand its international portfolio through franchise agreements with leading global brands. It also strengthens the hotel’s position in Business Bay, adding value to the hospitality sector by offering visitors, leisure, and business travelers experiences that reflect refined hospitality, cultural richness, and genuine engagement, particularly as Business Bay continues to grow as one of Dubai’s most dynamic districts. This approach is in line with Accor’s regional vision of delivering culturally distinctive hotels and unique experiences across key destinations in the Middle East.

To celebrate the opening, members of the Accor ALL program will earn four times the reward points on bookings made between February 16 and April 12, 2026, for stays between February 16 and August 9, 2026. Members also enjoy exclusive benefits, including discounts, complimentary upgrades, late check-out, and points redeemable at Accor hotels worldwide.

Jane Espante: Cezve Is a Trust and Winning a Responsibility

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Dubai – Ali Al zakary

Fresh from being crowned 2026 World Cezve/Ibrik Champion, Jane Espante spoke to Qahwa World in her first interview following the historic win. The championship, the first World Coffee Championship of the year, was held as part of World of Coffee Dubai.

Representing the United Arab Emirates, Espante claimed the title after a strong final-round performance in a competition hosted in Dubai for the first time in its history. Her victory reaffirmed that one of coffee’s oldest brewing methods remains fully capable of expressing the present and shaping the future—when approached with respect and authenticity.

Asked what winning the 2026 World Cezve/Ibrik Championship meant to her, Espante’s answer was clear and direct.
“It means trust,” she said, explaining that cezve is the oldest coffee brewing method and one that shaped the coffee culture we know today—from brewing techniques to the idea of gathering around a shared cup. “Holding this title is a great honor because it allows me to respect this heritage and continue carrying it forward. This win confirmed to me that patience and sincere intention still matter in today’s coffee world.”

Reflecting on the moment her name was announced, Espante described the feeling as surreal. “I thought about the hours of training, the mistakes, and everyone who believed in me and supported me. My team gave their time, effort, and dedication to reach this moment. This win is for them.”

Jane Espante to Qahwa World: Cezve Is a Trust and Winning a Responsibility

On balancing tradition with her own creative identity, Espante said she viewed tradition as a foundation rather than a limitation. “I stayed true to the core techniques, then expressed my story through flavor, pacing, and presentation—without compromising the soul of cezve coffee.”

Speaking about representing the UAE and winning on home ground in Dubai, she said the moment was deeply meaningful. “The UAE gave me the space to grow, learn, and dream bigger. Winning here feels like giving something back to the place that shaped my professional journey.”

As for the impact of the title on her future, Espante emphasized the responsibility that comes with it. “I want to teach more, share knowledge, and show that traditional coffee is not just part of the past—it has a real place in the future of the industry.”

She concluded with a message to future competitors: “Respect the craft, but don’t erase yourself. Learn the rules deeply, then let your story guide how you present them. Honesty is always felt in the cup.”

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 Concludes with Record Engagement

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concluded today at the Dubai World Trade Centre, closing a dynamic three-day programme focused on trade, professional learning, and origin engagement. Organised by DXB LIVE in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the event reinforced its role as a global hub for the specialty coffee industry.

Following a record-breaking opening day, Day Two sustained high engagement across Za’abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, and 6. Producers, roasters, buyers, and suppliers participated in business meetings, live cuppings, technical demonstrations, and networking sessions throughout the exhibition floor.

A key highlight was the World Class Auction, part of the Dubai Coffee Auction programme curated with M-Cultivo. Buyers sampled and bid on high-quality, traceable coffees in real-time, with the top lot—a Natural Geisha—selling for $3,075 per kilogram, reflecting the premium placed on exceptional origin coffees.

The Producer Panel showcased dialogues between origin representatives and industry stakeholders, exploring market access, value creation, and evolving producer–buyer relationships. Discussions emphasized sustainability, transparency, and long-term partnerships as central to the specialty coffee value chain.

Competitive programmes also drew attention. The Roasting Championship advanced into its technical evaluation phase, while the Cezve/Ibrik Championships 2026 celebrated traditional brewing methods through a modern specialty coffee lens.

Exhibitors praised the commercial impact of the event. Sanjeev Dinesh Fernando from Alpro said participation generated strong business leads, while Mohamed Alhammadi, Co-Owner of Tajer Coffee, described their first-time presence and sponsorship as exceeding expectations.

Reflecting on the event, Shouq Bin Redha, Exhibition Manager of World of Coffee Dubai, said:
“World of Coffee Dubai functions as a working marketplace for the specialty coffee sector. From live auctions and producer dialogues to championship progression and educational sessions, the programme delivers practical exchange and quality-driven trade outcomes.”

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concluded with the final Exhibitors’ Coffee Auction, championship awards, and ongoing educational sessions, leaving participants inspired and connected as the region’s premier specialty coffee event.

For more information, registration, and the full programme, visit: www.worldofcoffeedubai.com.

France Brings 110 Brands to “Gulfood 2026” Across Two Dubai

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Business France, the French national agency for international economic development, announced its largest-ever participation at Gulfood 2026, featuring 110 French brands across four pavilions under the “Taste France” banner.

This year, the exhibition is held at two main venues: Dubai World Trade Centre and Expo Dubai, with French participants showcasing a wide range of food and beverage products, including dairy, meat, poultry, seafood, beverages, and international food specialties.

  • French Participation by Venue:

Expo Dubai – Global Foods Platform 8-80: 67 companies

Dubai World Trade Centre: 43 companies, organized by sector:

Dairy: Sheikh Rashid Hall, Stand R-H47

Meat, poultry, seafood: Sheikh Saeed Halls, Hall 3

Beverages: Za’abeel 5 Hall, Stand Z5-J21

The French pavilions focus on four key sectors and feature new launches and exclusive innovations, including packaging and portion sizes suited to fast-paced lifestyles, health-oriented products, and premium items combining taste and functional benefits.

Commenting on the participation, Axel Barrau, General Manager of Business France in the Middle East, said:
“Gulfood 2026 provides a strategic opportunity to showcase France’s strengths in agri-food, highlighting products that meet the evolving needs of the regional market, with a focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation.”

  • UAE Market Context:

The UAE imports approximately 85% of its food needs, valued at over €21.4 billion in 2024, with rising demand for ready-to-eat meals, premium and functional foods, certified organic and plant-based products, and e-commerce-friendly items.

  • Visitor Experience at the French Pavilion:

Visitors can access live cooking demonstrations, interactive tastings, and artisanal coffee and tea sessions, alongside products tailored to practical consumer needs in the region.

  • Business France Digital Marketplace:

The platform connects global buyers with over 2,800 certified French suppliers and more than 28,000 products. Around 350 regional buyers have already joined, supporting long-term business partnerships.

  • About Business France:

Business France is a French government agency promoting exports and foreign investment in France. It manages the international internship program V.I.E and operates a global network in 55 countries. In 2024, it contributed to €1.8 billion in additional exports for French SMEs and mid-sized companies and supported the creation or maintenance of over 31,010 jobs.

Jane Espante Crowned 2026 World Cezve/Ibrik Champion in Dubai

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Jane Espante of the United Arab Emirates has been named the 2026 Cezve/Ibrik Champion following the conclusion of competition in Dubai. The title was officially revealed on January 20, 2026, during a live ceremony on the World of Coffee Dubai stage, launching the 2026 World Coffee Championships season.

The championship took place from January 18 to 20, 2026, as part of the Dubai World Coffee Championships, where finalists demonstrated mastery of one of coffee’s most historic brewing methods. Espante secured first place after a strong final-round performance, earning top honors in the opening championship event of the year.

Held during the largest-ever edition of World of Coffee Dubai, the Cezve/Ibrik Championship highlights a brewing tradition that spans centuries. Using the traditional cezve—also called an ibrik—competitors draw from techniques rooted in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, blending precision, sensory quality, and cultural storytelling in their routines.

World of Coffee Dubai is produced by DXB Live in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). The event continues to grow as a major international gathering for specialty coffee professionals, reflecting the Middle East’s expanding influence within the global coffee sector. Hosting the championship in Dubai underscores the city’s connection to coffee heritage while reinforcing its role as a center for innovation, trade, and cultural exchange.

Khalid Al Mulla, National Coordinator of the UAE Coffee Championships, praised the competitors, noting that the event showcases the craftsmanship and cultural depth behind cezve coffee. He highlighted the dedication and respect for tradition demonstrated throughout the competition and congratulated the winners for preserving this historic brewing style.

Final Results – 2026 Cezve/Ibrik Championship

1st Place: Jane Espante (United Arab Emirates)

2nd Place: Angel Kotsifakis (Greece)

3rd Place: Wael Hachem (France)

The Dubai World Coffee Championships continue to support the broader mission of the World Coffee Championships by fostering collaboration, education, and innovation, while offering coffee professionals a global platform to share their skills and inspire future leaders in the industry.

Complete rankings and full performance replays are available through official World Coffee Championships media channels.

Mokha 1450 Launches Rare Cuban Coffee in Dubai for the First Time

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Year after year, Mokha 1450 continues to reinforce its distinctive annual tradition of celebrating innovation and achievement, while honoring the creators behind them—its exceptional team. As a leading name in the luxury specialty coffee sector in Dubai and the UAE, the brand remains committed to showcasing excellence at every level.

This annual celebration traditionally takes place on the sidelines of the World of Coffee Dubai exhibition, bringing together an elite group of industry leaders, including farmers, producers, traders, coffee professionals, and coffee enthusiasts from around the world. Beyond recognizing the team’s efforts, the event also marks the launch of a rare and prestigious specialty coffee edition each year.

This year, Mokha 1450 unveiled its latest limited release: the rare Cuban coffee “Extra Turquino Lavado,” considered one of the finest and rarest coffees in Cuba. The coffee originates from the Nipe–Sagua–Baracoa region, a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site listed as the “Archaeological Landscape of the First Coffee Plantations in the Southeast of Cuba.”

  • Unprecedented Attendance

This year’s celebration stood out for its unprecedented attendance, both in scale and caliber. The event welcomed senior officials, entrepreneurs, and leading figures from the global coffee industry, alongside coffee lovers and members of the Dubai and UAE community.

In his keynote address, Mr. Garfield Kerr, CEO of Mokha 1450, welcomed guests and described the event as exceptional, marking a significant transitional phase in the brand’s journey.

Kerr began by congratulating Mr. Andrew Tully on his appointment as President of the Specialty Coffee Association and welcomed a former SCA president, thanking both for their presence and support.

He stated: “The World of Coffee exhibition has been truly outstanding. If you’ve enjoyed this exceptional organization, the credit goes to Mr. Khaled Al Mulla, Chairman of the Specialty Coffee Association UAE. Much of the hard work happens behind the scenes, and that effort is the key to this event’s success.”

He added a special note of thanks to Mr. Andres, saying: “While everything looks perfect upon arrival, there are major challenges behind the scenes. Thanks to Khaled and Andres, everything comes together seamlessly in the end.”

Kerr emphasized that Mokha 1450’s message this year was also directed at newcomers to the coffee industry:
“The greatest minds in coffee are gathered here. If you’re looking to validate investing in this sector, this is the place to be. We meet every year to showcase innovation and shape the future of coffee.”

  • Arabic Coffee and the Palace Recipe

Garfield Kerr revealed that this year’s innovation at Mokha 1450 was crafted by Ms. Sigrid Ballard, featuring a creative reinterpretation of Arabic coffee.

“Many of our guests have never tasted Arabic coffee before, so we created a coffee cocktail inspired by it—perhaps for the first time, to my knowledge. I firmly believe that understanding any new innovation begins with tasting the original.”

He explained that Mokha 1450 had previously avoided serving Arabic coffee due to its deeply personal and cultural nature. That changed after a unique experience with a coffee-loving minister, during which a special Arabic coffee recipe was prepared inside a palace in Abu Dhabi.

“After returning to Dubai, we received a call requesting that exclusive palace recipe. This is the coffee we are serving you today, alongside Sigrid’s newly developed blend for comparison.”

Kerr noted that while “Crystal Coffee” remains one of Mokha 1450’s most iconic innovations, the Arabic coffee project holds a special place within the brand.

  • A Human Gesture and Special Tribute

In a heartfelt and dignified gesture, Kerr paid tribute to Julian, one of Mokha 1450’s earliest team members, who is no longer with the company but played a foundational role in its success.

“Julian was our first manager, and everything Mokha 1450 has achieved today is thanks to him. He challenged traditional coffee rules and relied on experimentation rather than theory alone.”

Kerr added that Julian possesses one of the finest palates in the industry, having won the UAE Coffee Tasting Championship and reached the semifinals of the World Championship. He now resides in London, where he works as a senior coffee roaster.

  • The Rare Cuban Coffee

Kerr concluded his speech by presenting this year’s rare coffee release, praising the efforts of Joey, a member of the Mokha 1450 team.

“We always strive to offer exceptionally rare coffees, and Cuban coffee is a perfect example. To my knowledge, we are the only specialty coffee café in Dubai serving Cuban coffee.”

He revealed that sourcing this edition required three years of continuous effort, beginning with initial contact with the Cuban Embassy during Expo, and expressed his hope that guests would truly enjoy this extraordinary coffee.

Mohammed bin Rashid visits World of Coffee Dubai 2026

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Dubai – Qahwa World

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today visited the fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai, which opened at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) on 18th January and runs until 20th January 2026.

During the visit, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed, accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, toured several pavilions displaying a wide range of exhibits.

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed was apprised by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, about the scale and impact of the exhibition. Organised by DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), World of Coffee Dubai 2026 brings together more than 2,100 exhibiting companies and brands from 78 countries, marking the largest and most internationally diverse edition of the exhibition since its launch.

Providing tremendous opportunities for the sustained growth of an economic sector focused on one of the world’s most widely traded products, the coffee industry creates significant economic value and the exhibition is a key platform bringing diverse industry stakeholders together under a common umbrella. An estimate provided by statista.com puts the global coffee sector’s projected revenue for 2026 in the vicinity of $495.70 billion. Spanning various stages of the value chain, from cultivation and production to distribution and consumer markets, the exhibition showcases a wide variety of equipment used in coffee processing, roasting, and brewing.

Significant demand

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Khalid Al Hammadi, Senior Vice President of DXB LIVE, on the continued growth of World of Coffee Dubai over five editions. Since its launch, the exhibition has expanded significantly in scale and international participation, growing from a regional platform into a globally recognised meeting point for the specialty coffee industry. The 2026 edition spans more than 20,000 square metres, reflecting sustained growth driven by rising demand across the Middle East and North Africa.

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 reflects growing global interest in specialty coffee and Dubai’s role as a hub connecting producing countries with international buyers and manufacturers, bringing together leading producers, equipment manufacturers, roasters, and traders from both established brands and emerging markets. The exhibition features three live coffee auctions, international championships, workshops, and educational programmes, alongside extensive trade and networking opportunities for industry professionals.

Michael Sheridan in an Exclusive Interview with Qahwa World

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CQI CEO Speaks Candidly About Coffee, Community, and 2026 Goals

Dubai – Ali Alzakary

2025 was a year of transformation and challenge for the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI). From transitioning its flagship program, the Q, to SCA, to navigating the sudden loss of USAID funding—the largest donor in CQI’s history—CEO Michael Sheridan reflects on how these shifts shaped the organization’s mission and approach. Amid historic market volatility, Sheridan discusses the importance of recommitting to CQI’s goal of supporting coffee producers, promoting measurable impact for farmers—especially women—and evolving coffee education to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry. He also shares insights from global conversations on the biggest concerns in the coffee community, including risk reduction, community engagement, and strategies to create meaningful impact.

Join us in this valuable interview to hear directly from Michael Sheridan about CQI’s vision for 2026 and beyond.

  • What did 2025 teach you, and how is that changing your approach for 2026?

Last year was a really consequential one for CQI. We transitioned our biggest program, the Q, to SCA against the backdrop of the shuttering of USAID, which was the biggest source of public funding for development work in coffee communities and the largest donor in CQI’s history. At the same time, the coffee market was experiencing the largest and most sustained rally anyone has ever seen, which caused lots of disruption in the market and undid years of work on trading relationships based on mutual commitment to quality.

We understood in 2025 that we were entering a new phase in CQI’s work, and that effectively advancing our mission in this new context would require thinking carefully about CQI’s role in the coffee ecosystem and listening carefully to members of the community. We are still in this process of reflection and consultation, but two things are clear.

First, we are recommitting to our mission: we are focused on market-based support for coffee producers. Second, we know we can’t get there alone. We know that the changes we introduced last year were disruptive in our community, and we know we need to build that community to be successful. We are working to create new approaches for collaboration with individuals and coffee companies, and expect to be in a position to talk more about those in the coming weeks.

  • How do you know you’re truly making a difference for farmers, especially women?

One of the things I love about this work is how measurable it can be. I got my start in coffee working for an international development agency where many of my peers were working on programs that measured change over very long time horizons. Their work in peacebuilding, gender equity, and social change was as hard to measure as it was important. In contrast, I was always grateful that my work to support coffee producers had annual metrics tied to the coffee cycle: production, average price, gross coffee income, etc.

While some of the structural changes we want to be part of at CQI related to equitable value distribution may require long-term commitment, every year brings an opportunity to check in on how well we are advancing our mission to improve the quality of coffee and the lives of the people who produce it. The mechanism that links those two elements of our mission (one, the improvement of quality, and the other, improvement of lives) is the market. Buyers can convert improvements in quality into improvements in seller livelihoods every coffee cycle by increasing rewards (e.g., premium prices, increased purchase volume, etc.), reducing risks (e.g., longer-term commitments, multi-grade purchases, etc.), or both. This is part of the reason we will be more intentional about engagment with industry parters in 2026 and beyond — to try to ensure quality improvements translate into improvements in the lived realities of the people who grow our coffee.

Women play a prominent role in our thinking about impact. As you may know, CQI has a long history of promoting women’s participation in the benefits generated by coffee. Long before my time, visionary leaders at CQI created the Partnership for Gender Equity, which evolved into an independent organization called Equal Origins that is doing groundbreaking work in this space. We have consistently supported women’s participation over the years, and investment in educational activities by and for women has been a throughline in our project investments over the past two years. I expect more of the same in 2026, which has been designated the International Year of the Woman Farmer by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization.

  • How must coffee education evolve to stay relevant right now?

I think coffee education has never been more necessary. There has been so much disruption in recent years — accelerated climate change, historic market volatility, rapidly changing market preferences, sharp changes in policy, and public disinvestment in coffee communities have all created the need for recalibrating traditional approaches, and in many cases that means education to meet new challenges and seize new opportunities.

At CQI, we are thinking hard about the what, how, and who of our educational work. I think the “what” is the relevance question you ask: what are the specific topics that will position producers and other supply stream actors to respond effectively to changes in the operating environment? In a global marketplace in which processing is as important as it has been in our lifetimes, we see lots of opportunities to deliver new and improved content through our Post-Harvest Processing Program that is timely and relevant. We are also eyeing new tools and content relevant to coffee quality beyond post-harvest processing that aim to address pain points that have surfaced in our conversations over the past few months.

Additionally, we are exploring the “how,” seeking ways to deliver educational content that are efficient and accessible. In some cases, that will likely mean creating new content for digital delivery or digitalizing existing analog content. In other cases, it will mean delivering in-person education in shorter-form classes that are not designed to lead to certification but directly to field-level impact through the adoption of good practices.

Finally, we are acutely aware that we need to evolve the “who” and certify more instructors who live and work in the places where coffee is grown. Localising coffee education will be a key to unlocking access.

  • From your global talks, what’s the no. 1 concern you’re hearing from the community?

We have spent the last few months conferring with leaders from the coffee sector to inform the next phase of CQI’s work — producers, processors, traders, roasters, educators, and others. The one thing that seemed to be on everyone’s mind was risk — market risk, price risk, production risk, risk related to quality, etc. As we think about how we can best support coffee producers and the entire coffee community in 2026 and beyond, we find ourselves thinking a lot about how we can partner with actors all along the supply stream to help reduce risk, most especially the smallholder producers who are generally least equipped to bear it. In a market where there is a lot of attention paid to way quality improvement can increase the rewards and premiums growers earn, there may be less appreciation for a focus on risk reduction, but it can help us deliver on our mission to improve the lives of producers every bit as much as increased rewards.

  • At the end of 2026 — what does a “win” look like for CQI?
Well, I think part of the answer is related to your question above about measuring our impact — the outcomes of the work will speak for themselves. But I think an important part of the answer is also related to the process — how effective we are at building community engagement in our work will go a long way to defining how successful we can be. I know that if we can manage to enlist the best of the CQI community in this effort with us, we are going to create real opportunity for producers while addressing pain points in the industry. That sounds like success to me!

 

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Dubai Remains the Only Destination for “World of Coffee” in the Middle East

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Dubai – Ali Alzakary

In an exclusive conversation with Qahwa World, Mr. Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association, shared key insights on the growth and future of the “World of Coffee” exhibition, confirming that Dubai remains the sole destination for the show in the foreseeable future. He also spoke candidly about the transition following the end of the partnership with the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) and the strong rollout of the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) system.

Apostolopoulos highlighted that this year marks the fifth edition of the “World of Coffee,” which has grown tremendously. The number of exhibitors and attendees has surpassed any previous year, already 30% higher than before. He emphasized that the exhibition offers a unique opportunity for professionals to meet and conduct business. While it is fundamentally a trade show, it also fosters a sense of community and highlights the booming specialty coffee industry in the region.

“What we bring is a unique opportunity for people to come together and trade. At its core, this is a trade show, but it’s also about fostering a sense of community and showcasing how the specialty coffee industry is booming in the region. The Middle East has become one of the fastest-growing regions for specialty coffee in recent years, and you can feel that energy here at the show,” said Apostolopoulos.

Regarding the possibility of hosting editions in other Middle Eastern countries, Apostolopoulos confirmed that Dubai remains the ideal hub. He noted their ongoing partnership with DXB Live in Dubai, which will be renewed this year. Dubai provides excellent access from across the Middle East and the world, making it ideal for exhibitors and attendees. He added that while other countries may be considered in the future, this is not part of any immediate plans.

“At the moment, we have a partnership with DXB Live for Dubai, which we’re renewing this year. Dubai is a great hub with excellent access from across the Middle East and the world, making it ideal for exhibitors and attendees. Maybe in the future we’ll consider other countries, but not in the immediate plans,” said Apostolopoulos.

Apostolopoulos also discussed developments in the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) system. He mentioned the transitional phase following the partnership with CQI and confirmed that many participants have already moved to the new program. There are now over 10,000 new Q graders and significantly more instructors, particularly in producing countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam, which he recently visited. He stressed that the system allows producers to communicate clearly and objectively about the intrinsic and extrinsic attributes of coffee, while the trade sector explores how best to use the CVA framework to capture the quality of every coffee in everyday transactions.

“There has been some transition after our partnership with CQI, but many people have already moved to the new program. We now have over 10,000 new Q graders and significantly more instructors, especially in producing countries. We’re making targeted efforts to increase instructors in places like Colombia, Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam, where I was recently. Producers are seeing the value because you can communicate more clearly and objectively the attributes that are intrinsic and extrinsic to the coffee. The trade is figuring out the next steps of how to use the CVA paradigm and the new evaluation for quality and capturing the picture of every coffee in everyday trade,” said Apostolopoulos.

He affirmed that CVA benefits the industry as a whole, helping capture and share detailed data on coffee with producers and buyers, enabling clearer communication and maximizing coffee value.

“Absolutely. That’s the idea. CVA is part of the evolution of our understanding of coffee. We now care about more aspects of coffee than ever before, and CVA helps capture that information and share it with producers and buyers. This allows everyone to communicate more clearly and find ways to maximize the value of coffees,” said Apostolopoulos.

 

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 Kicks Off at DWTC

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Qahwa World

The fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai officially opened today at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), marking a major milestone for the Middle East’s specialty coffee industry. Organised by DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), the event opened with more than 2,100 exhibiting companies and brands from 78 countries, delivering its largest and most internationally diverse edition to date.

A key milestone on day one was the signing of a five-year extension agreement between World of Coffee Dubai and the Specialty Coffee Association, extending the partnership until 2031. The agreement formalises a long-term collaboration to support specialty coffee competitions, education programmes, and professional standards at the event. The MoU was signed by Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE, and Yannis Apostolopoulos, Chief Executive Officer of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), reinforcing World of Coffee Dubai’s position as a stable, internationally aligned platform within the global specialty coffee calendar.

Following the opening programme, activity spread across the exhibition floor, which spans more than 20,000 square metres across Za’abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, and 6. Exhibitors from producing origins and consuming markets showcased green coffee, roasting and brewing technologies, equipment, packaging solutions, and café innovations, representing every stage of the specialty coffee value chain.

Key features activated on day one included the Roasters Village and Producers’ Village, where roasters and origin producers engaged directly with buyers, importers, and industry professionals. The Brew Bar and Cupping Rooms hosted tastings and sensory sessions throughout the day, while the SCA Community Lounge served as a central hub for networking and knowledge exchange. Live activity at the competition stages also drew strong interest from visitors.

The opening day also highlighted the depth of innovation and collaboration across the exhibition. A World of Coffee exclusive collaboration between Oatly and Yaba, a modern Iraqi restaurant based in Al Wasl, introduced a new approach to coffee beverage creation by applying culinary steeping techniques to extract flavour, alongside distinctive elements such as nut crème and saffron-infused bubbles.

Equipment innovation featured prominently, with Coffee Desk, the exclusive Middle East distributor for leading brands including Fellow, unveiling the first global showcase of Fellow’s upgraded Espresso Series 1, ahead of its commercial release later this year. The launch reflected growing demand for high-performance, accessible equipment within the specialty coffee sector.

Commercial activity commenced on day one with the Dubai Coffee Equipment Auction organized by DXB LIVE in collaboration with DMCC, a dedicated one-day auction showcasing specialised and customised coffee equipment from exhibitors at World of Coffee Dubai. Curated in collaboration with M-Cultivo, the auction featured pre-qualified equipment presented through live demonstrations and inspections on the show floor, followed by a live, lot-by-lot auction led by an auctioneer. Designed to connect equipment manufacturers with serious buyers, the auction provided a focused platform for innovation, craftsmanship, and price discovery within the regional specialty coffee market.

Reflecting on the opening day, Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President at DXB LIVE, said: “World of Coffee Dubai continues to grow in scale, diversity, and international relevance. The strong participation seen on the first day, together with the signing of a five-year partnership agreement with the Specialty Coffee Association, reflects the event’s maturity and its importance as a global platform for trade, education, and professional exchange.”

In a further milestone for the wider coffee events portfolio, Khalid Al Hammadi also signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding related to the Bahrain Coffee Festival. The agreement covers the organisation of the festival as a curated B2C and B2B experience featuring workshops, live brews, competitions, and immersive activations. The Bahrain Coffee Festival aims to engage the wider community by inviting coffee lovers, families, and the public to explore the diversity of coffee, while spotlighting both local and international brands.

During day one, DXB LIVE also announced plans to expand its coffee-focused event portfolio through the launch of dedicated coffee festivals in Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia. Developed as a separate DXB LIVE IP, the regional festivals will build on the growing momentum of specialty coffee across the GCC while complementing World of Coffee Dubai’s role as the flagship international trade platform.

Exhibitors highlighted the value of the event’s international reach and professional audience. Denkayehu Dessalegn Head Roaster and Quality Control at Roasters, said: “World of Coffee Dubai provides an important platform for regional specialty coffee brands looking to scale internationally. This is our first participation at the event, and it allows us to introduce what we have been developing over the past four years to a global industry audience.”

 

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 continues through 20 January, with upcoming days featuring the Microlot Coffee Auction, the Exhibitors’ Coffee Auction, championship finals, workshops, and further industry announcements.

For visitor registration, media accreditation, and the full programme, please visit:
www.worldofcoffeedubai.com

 About World of Coffee Dubai

World of Coffee Dubai (WOC Dubai) is the premier coffee trade show for exhibitors and visitors looking to break into the Middle East’s burgeoning coffee industry. The event showcases popular features like the Roaster Village, engaging lectures, the Cupping Room, the SCA UAE National Championships, the Coffee Design Awards, the Best New Display Product Competition, Brew Bar, and the SCA Community Lounge, where buyers and sellers come together to reconnect and establish new business relationships. The exhibition welcomes local, regional, and global professionals in the coffee industry including producers, manufacturers, traders, farmers, international experts, distributors, small and medium companies, coffee shops, roasters, hotels, and coffee enthusiasts from around the world.

About SCA

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is the world’s largest nonprofit, membership-based trade association in the coffee industry. Representing thousands of coffee professionals globally from producers to baristas, the organization is built on foundations of openness, inclusivity, and the power of shared knowledge, fostering an international coffee community to make specialty coffee a thriving, equitable, and sustainable activity for the entire value chain. From coffee farmers to baristas and roasters, our membership spans the globe, encompassing every element of the coffee value chain. The SCA acts as a unifying force within the specialty coffee industry and works to make coffee better by raising standards worldwide through a collaborative and progressive approach.

 About DXB LIVE:

DXB LIVE is the integrated event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre. With its creative, technical, and operational expertise, DXB LIVE delivers world-class events of all types, including exhibitions, conferences, festivals, recreational activities, national occasions, major corporate events, as well as high-end and private weddings.zThe agency provides services for more than 100 major events annually, designing and building over 500,000 square feet of exhibition stands and delivering complex live events and conference solutions. DXB LIVE also offers strategic consultancy to associations and international organizations, while organizing large-scale trade exhibitions and public events.

Rapidly expanding its footprint, DXB LIVE is strengthening its position among the world’s leading event companies through strong alliances with top international event organizations. Its combined services create exceptional experiences that connect brands with their audiences across the UAE, GCC, Middle East, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.