Category: News

Colombian Coffee Day Celebrated at Dubai Coffee Museum

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Dubai – Serkan Oral

The Embassy of Colombia in the United Arab Emirates, in collaboration with the Coffee Museum Dubai, hosted Colombian Coffee Day, welcoming coffee professionals, enthusiasts, and guests to a cultural celebration dedicated to one of the world’s most renowned coffee origins.

The event took place at the Coffee Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, and highlighted Colombia’s rich coffee heritage under the theme:
“Honoring Colombian coffee for its signature smoothness and layered sensory richness, a flavor legacy embraced as a global standard of excellence.”

During the ceremony, Khalid Al Mulla, founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Coffee Museum, spoke about the exceptional quality of Colombian coffee, noting that it is often a central reference point in coffee discussions and professional conversations.

H.E. Luis Miguel Merlano Hoyos, Ambassador of Colombia to the United Arab Emirates, also addressed attendees, expressing his appreciation for hosting Colombian Coffee Day at the Coffee Museum and warmly welcoming coffee lovers who gathered to celebrate Colombia’s coffee culture.

Colombian Coffee Day serves as a tribute to the dedication of coffee growers and highlights the Coffee Cultural Landscape of Colombia, which has been recognized as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site. Traditional brewing methods were also highlighted during the event, including preparation using the olleta, a traditional pot used to brew coffee as an unfiltered infusion.

Colombia remains one of the world’s leading coffee-producing countries. The coffee sector not only supports thousands of farming families, but also plays a vital role in driving economic development across the country’s coffee-growing regions.

The Coffee Museum Dubai, located at Villa 44 in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, is a specialized cultural venue founded by coffee expert Khalid Al Mulla. The museum showcases the history and global culture of coffee through antique roasting tools, regional brewing methods—including Arabic and Ethiopian traditions—a dedicated library, and an in-house café. Designed as a refined yet intimate space, the museum offers a relaxed atmosphere with a simple oriental aesthetic, aligned with international standards.

Khalid Al Mulla also serves as the national coordinator of the Specialty Coffee Association UAE chapter.

H.E. Luis Miguel Merlano Hoyos, who assumed office in July 2023, is Colombia’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. Based in Abu Dhabi, his work focuses on strengthening bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange between Colombia and the UAE.

Colombian Coffee Day is also an occasion on which Colombians celebrate not only the quality of their coffee, but also the founding of the National Federation of Coffee Growers, a cornerstone institution in the country’s coffee history.

Brazil Coffee Export Revenue Hits Record Despite Falling Volumes

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Brazil’s coffee export revenue reached a historic high of $15.6 billion in 2025, despite a significant decline in shipment volumes, according to the latest report from Cecafé, the Brazilian Coffee Exporters Council.

Released on January 19, the report shows that total coffee exports fell by more than 10 million 60-kilogram bags, dropping from a record 50,584,170 bags in 2024 to 40,049,222 bags in 2025—a decrease of over 20 percent. Even so, the 2025 figure remains higher than exports recorded in any year between 2020 and 2023.

Cecafé President Márco Ferreira attributed the surge in export earnings to steadily rising coffee prices throughout 2025. He noted that higher average monthly prices, combined with continued investment by Brazilian growers in technology, innovation, and quality, helped elevate both the standard and market value of Brazilian coffee.

The report also highlights the impact of United States tariffs, which led to a 55 percent decline in exports to the U.S. between August and November. The tariffs included a 40 percent national emergency levy, introduced on July 30, alongside a 10 percent reciprocal tariff. Both measures were lifted on November 12.

As a result of reduced U.S. demand, Germany emerged as Brazil’s largest coffee importer in 2025, followed by Italy, Japan, and Belgium.

Looking ahead, Ferreira expects Brazilian coffee exports in 2026 to once again exceed 40 million 60-kilogram bags, reinforcing the country’s position as the world’s largest coffee producer. By comparison, the record 2024 harvest generated approximately $12.5 billion in export revenue, while the 2023 crop earned $6.2 billion.

Italy Highlights Culinary Diversity and Sustainability at Gulfood 2026

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UNESCO-Recognised Italian Cuisine Anchors Italy’s Presence at the World’s Leading Food Event

Dubai, UAE  – Qahwa World

Italy will take centre stage at Gulfood 2026, the world’s largest food and beverage trade show, running from 26–30 January across two venues: the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. The Italian Trade Agency (ITA), in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will showcase the nation’s culinary heritage and sustainable food practices.

A total of 22 companies will exhibit within the Italian Food Lab, complemented by 311 Italian exhibitors across the Italian Pavilion, reflecting Italy’s strong and diverse presence at the 31st edition of the event.

Italy’s participation is underscored by the recent UNESCO recognition of Italian cuisine, formally titled “Italian cooking between sustainability and biocultural diversity”, which has been inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This makes Italian cuisine the first national culinary tradition worldwide to receive this distinction, recognising it as a living cultural system rooted in agricultural landscapes, biodiversity, seasonal produce, and the intergenerational transmission of knowledge.

At Gulfood 2026, Italy will highlight the cultural, agricultural, and sustainable foundations of its food heritage. The Italian Food Lab will serve as an experiential hub, featuring live cooking demonstrations and gastronomic masterclasses led by Italian chefs based in the UAE and internationally. Visitors will be able to explore Italy’s regional culinary diversity, high-quality ingredients, and production practices that balance tradition with sustainability.

Trade figures underscore Italy’s established market presence in the UAE. In the first eleven months of 2025, Italy exported €416.9 million in food and beverage products to the UAE, following a total export value of €447 million in 2024. Leading categories include beverages (€76.5 million), cereal, flour, and starch-based preparations (€55.8 million), and dairy products (€32 million), demonstrating steady demand across retail, hospitality, and foodservice sectors.

“Italian cuisine goes beyond taste, reflecting a strong bond between people, tradition, and sustainability,” said H.E. Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE. “Gulfood is a key platform to share this heritage, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, with partners and consumers across the UAE.”

Valerio Soldani, Italian Trade Commissioner to the UAE and Oman, added: “Italy’s food and beverage exports to the UAE reflect a mature and discerning market. Gulfood 2026 allows us to translate this value into experience, through the Italian Food Lab, masterclasses, and direct engagement, showcasing the cultural depth, diversity, and sustainability that now carry formal international recognition.”

Visitors to Gulfood 2026 are invited to experience the Italian Food Lab and its programme of masterclasses throughout the exhibition, offering an authentic insight into Italy’s rich food and agricultural heritage.

Dubai Coffee Auction 2026 Concludes with Over $70,000 in Sales

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Dubai, UAE – Qahwa World

The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) concluded the second edition of the “Dubai Coffee Auction,” with total specialty coffee sales exceeding $70,000, reflecting continued global demand for high-quality, traceable coffee.

The auction featured coffee from 13 different producing countries, marking the widest geographic range ever represented in a single coffee auction. Notably, the event included the first international sale of coffee from the continental United States and recorded the second-highest auction price for Bolivian coffee, highlighting strong international competition among buyers.

Held as part of the World of Coffee Dubai 2026, the auction attracted buyers from across the global specialty coffee market, with 1,364 bids submitted. The platform provided producers with a transparent and organized marketplace to reach international buyers directly.

This edition was part of a three-auction program over the Expo’s three days, including the “Coffee Equipment Auction” and the “Microlot Auction,” culminating in the “Exhibitors’ Coffee Auction,” showcasing a diverse range of coffees to an international audience.

DMCC’s Coffee Centre, located in the Jebel Ali Free Zone, offers integrated facilities including storage, processing, roasting, logistics, and training, connecting producers from Latin America, Africa, and Asia with global markets efficiently.

The World of Coffee Dubai 2026 ran from January 18 to 20 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, featuring over 2,100 companies and brands from the global specialty coffee industry.

Peet’s Coffee to Close Several San Francisco Locations

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Peet’s Coffee is set to close multiple San Francisco locations, including its Polk Street café at 2139 C Polk St., as part of a broader restructuring expected to take effect by the end of January 2026.

A spokesperson for Peet’s confirmed the closures, emphasizing that the company is adjusting its operations to align with long-term growth strategies and current market conditions. Specific details regarding the total number of affected stores or their exact locations were not disclosed.

“These decisions reflect our ongoing commitment to sustainable growth while honoring the quality and heritage that have defined Peet’s for more than 60 years,” the spokesperson said. “We are deeply grateful to our employees and loyal customers and remain focused on innovation and excellence in every cup.”

Peet’s opened its Polk Street location in 1993 and currently operates more than 20 stores throughout San Francisco. Reports indicate that additional locations, including those at 919 Cole St. and 2257 Market St., are also expected to close this month.

The closures coincide with an $18 billion acquisition of Peet’s parent company, JDE Peet’s, by Keurig Dr Pepper, a deal slated to finalize later this year.

This wave of store reductions reflects broader shifts in the coffee industry as chains adapt to evolving market conditions and corporate restructuring plans.

MICE 2026 Reveals Exhibitor Line-Up in Melbourne

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Melbourne – Qahwa World

The Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE) has officially revealed its exhibitor line-up for 2026, offering industry professionals an early look at what to expect when the event takes place from 26–28 March 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Recognised as one of the leading trade exhibitions for the global coffee and hospitality sectors, MICE continues to serve as a key meeting point for roasters, café operators, equipment manufacturers, and suppliers from around the world.

With the exhibitor directory now live, attendees can begin planning their visit and identifying the brands, technologies, and solutions most relevant to their business needs. The show floor will feature a broad mix of coffee roasters, machinery specialists, ingredient suppliers, and service providers, creating a comprehensive showcase of the industry.

The strength of the event is further reflected in its sponsor and partner support, which highlights the expo’s ongoing relevance within the international coffee community. Backing from established brands and industry organisations reinforces MICE’s role in showcasing current trends and future direction across coffee and hospitality.

Across the exhibition space, visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with equipment manufacturers, grinder specialists, milk and ingredient suppliers, and packaging and technology providers. This face-to-face interaction allows businesses to evaluate options efficiently and make informed decisions with confidence.

The 2026 edition will once again feature hands-on demonstrations of brewing equipment and café workflow solutions, alongside curated areas dedicated to coffee tasting and roasting. These platforms enable attendees to compare products, explore sourcing conversations, and better understand performance across espresso and milk-based beverages.

In addition to product discovery, MICE 2026 brings together suppliers focused on sustainability, automation, packaging, and digital systems designed to support café and roastery operations. The event offers a practical environment for operators seeking solutions that improve efficiency and scalability.

With a focus on quality presentations, clear navigation, and meaningful engagement, MICE 2026 aims to deliver strong commercial value for attendees. As the exhibitor line-up is confirmed, industry professionals are encouraged to plan their visit early to maximise opportunities across the three-day event.

MICE 2026 is set to deliver insight, connection, and business-focused outcomes for the global coffee community.

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concludes its fifth edition with a record 20,000 visits

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  • 50% of the exhibition space for the sixth edition next year has already been booked
  • Brazil and other countries have announced an increase in their national pavilion spaces for the next edition
  • Results of the three live auctions announced
  • Winners honoured in the four championship categories, Best New Product, and Best Design Award
  • Jean Espanti from the United Arab Emirates crowned champion of the Cezve/Ibrik World Championship
  • Adam Rubin from Benchmark Coffee named Best Barista in the UAE
  • Jomar Morales from Benchmark Coffee takes first place in the Latte Art Championship
  • Nizam Basha Luwang from Espressi named Roaster of the Year
  • Sage wins the Best New Product Award
  • Coffee Market Innovations (CMI) wins the Best Design Award

Dubai – Qahwa World

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concluded yesterday at the Dubai World Trade Centre, announcing the winners of the local and international championships and competitions, as well as the results of the auctions held on the first and third days. The fifth edition of the exhibition was a remarkable success, recording over 20,000 visits from specialty coffee professionals across more than 80 countries., reflecting the continued growth of international attendance and global participation, and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading hub for the specialty coffee industry.

The fifth edition also witnessed the signing of a three-year partnership agreement to organise the Bahrain Coffee Festival between DXB LIVE, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), and Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB). The festival’s inaugural edition achieved strong success, positioning it as a platform that combines trade and consumer-focused activities, including workshops, live coffee preparation, championships, and interactive experiences, with the aim of engaging a wider community of coffee enthusiasts, families, and the general public. The opening day also saw the signing of a five-year partnership agreement between World of Coffee Dubai and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), extending the collaboration through 2031.

As the 2026 edition ended yesterday evening, DXB LIVE, the integrated event management and experiential agency of the Dubai World Trade Centre and organiser of the event, confirmed strong demand for exhibition space in the next edition. 50% of the exhibition space for the sixth edition of World of Coffee Dubai 2027 has already been booked. The next edition is scheduled to take place from 26–28 January 2027 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The final day marked the conclusion of four championship competitions, including three UAE national titles and the World Cezve/Ibrik Championship, recognising technical excellence, consistency, and performance under internationally recognised standards.

In the UAE National Barista Championship, Adam Ruben (Benchmark Coffee) was crowned National Champion, with Nooran Albannay (Coffee Architecture) securing second place and Serkan Sagsoz (Julith Coffee) placing third, following assessments across espresso, milk-based beverages, and signature drinks.

The UAE National Latte Art Championship recognised excellence in creativity, control, and technical precision, with Jhomar Morales (Benchmark) taking first place, followed by Mark Lyster Gimeno (Heaf) and Win Min Htike (Jebena Specialty Coffee) in second and third positions respectively.

The UAE National Roasting Championship concluded with Nizam Pasha Lolowang (Espressi) awarded first place, with Ajeyudu Pathuri (Brewing Gadgets) securing second place and Raha Shahsavar (Crack Coffee Roastery)placing third, recognising excellence in roast development, flavour profiling, and consistency.

At the international level, the World Cezve/Ibrik Championship crowned Jane Espante (United Arab Emirates) as the 2026 champion, followed by Angel Kotsifakis (Greece) in second place and Waël Hachem (France) in third. The championship celebrates one of the world’s oldest coffee brewing traditions through contemporary specialty coffee standards.

Innovation and creativity were celebrated through the event’s awards programme. The Best New Product Award was presented to Sage for The Oracle Dual Boiler, recognising innovation in coffee equipment and brewing technology. The Coffee Design Award was awarded to Coffee Market Innovations (CMI), celebrating excellence in stand design, creativity, and brand presentation on the exhibition floor.

Key commercial results were confirmed through the Dubai Coffee Auction programme, with the Dubai Coffee Equipment Auction on Day One and the Exhibitors’ Coffee Auction on Day Three, organised by DXB LIVE with DMCC, delivering major milestones including a Bolivian coffee reaching USD 386 per kilogram (the origin’s second highest price on record), the first ever continental U.S. coffee offered at auction setting a new price benchmark, and a record diversity of 13 origins represented in a single auction, reinforcing World of Coffee Dubai’s role as a transparent, trade driven marketplace for global buyers and producers.

Commenting on the fifth edition, Khalid Al Hammadi, Executive Vice President of DXB LIVE, said: “World of Coffee Dubai has firmly established itself as a platform where the specialty coffee industry comes together to celebrate excellence, exchange knowledge, and conduct meaningful business. The remarkable growth in visitor numbers, along with the strong early demand for exhibition space for the 2027 edition, reflects the role of both Dubai and the event as a hub connecting markets, talent, and opportunities.”

Over the course of three days, World of Coffee Dubai 2026 brought together more than 2,100 exhibiting companies and brands from 78 countries, serving as a key meeting point for producers, roasters, manufacturers, buyers, and decision-makers across all stages of the specialty coffee value chain. The final day shifted the focus from engagement to recognition, with a formal celebration of professional excellence, innovation, and achievements within the sector.

As World of Coffee Dubai 2026 concludes, the fifth edition stands as its largest and most internationally diverse to date, underscoring Dubai’s growing influence as a global hub for specialty coffee trade, professional excellence, and innovation.

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, the premier event management and experiential agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) offers a comprehensive range of services, providing innovative solutions for all types of events and experiences both within the UAE and internationally. Over the years, DXB LIVE has successfully created a fully integrated and globally recognized experiential environment, driven by its state-of-the-art in-house production facilities and advanced technical expertise. The team covers strategic concept

Jhomar Morales Crowned Champion of the UAE National Latte Art Championship 2026

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Jhomar Morales of Benchmark Coffee has claimed first place in the UAE National Latte Art Championship during the fifth edition of World of Coffee Dubai 2026, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The championship recognized creativity, precision, and technical excellence in crafting milk-based coffee beverages, a highlight among the four national and international competitions featured at the event.

Morales was followed by Mark Lyster Gimeno from Heaf in second place, and Win Min Htike from Jebena Specialty Coffee in third, after rigorous evaluations based on artistic design, milk texture, coffee balance, and overall presentation.

The UAE National Latte Art Championship is part of the wider set of competitions held at World of Coffee Dubai, which also included the UAE National Barista Championship, the UAE National Roasting Championship, and the World Cezve/Ibrik Championship. At this year’s event, Adam Rubin from Benchmark Coffee was crowned UAE National Barista Champion, while Nizam Basha Luwang from Espressi was named Roaster of the Year, and Jane Espante from the UAE won the Cezve/Ibrik World Championship.

World of Coffee Dubai 2026 brought together over 2,100 exhibiting companies from 78 countries, attracting more than 20,000 visitors from across the globe. The event also celebrated innovation through awards such as the Best New Product Award, won by Sage for the Oracle Dual Boiler, and the Coffee Design Award, awarded to Coffee Market Innovations (CMI).

The exhibition confirmed strong demand for next year’s edition, with 50% of the space already booked and several countries, including Brazil, announcing an increase in their national pavilion areas.

Jhomar  Morales’ victory underscores the growing expertise and creativity of UAE-based baristas in the global specialty coffee scene, reflecting Dubai’s emerging position as a hub for coffee excellence and innovation.

World of Coffee Dubai 2027 is scheduled to take place from 26–28 January 2027 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

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.

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.