Tag: World of Coffee Dubai

Exhibitor Registrations Open for World of Coffee Dubai 2027

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Dubai — Qahwa World

DXB Live, the organizer of World of Coffee Dubai, has announced the opening of registrations for World of Coffee Dubai 2027, following the strong results achieved by the 2026 edition. Organizers confirmed that 50% of the exhibition space has already been reserved, prompting exhibitors to secure their participation early in what is considered the MENA region’s leading specialty coffee exhibition.

The fifth edition of the exhibition, World of Coffee Dubai 2026, recorded significant participation from across the global coffee sector. The event covered 20,000 square meters at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together companies, producers, and industry professionals in a platform dedicated to trade, innovation, and partnerships.

Organizers reported more than 20,000 visits during the three-day event, with participation from over 2,100 brands and companies representing the international coffee industry. The exhibition also hosted more than 75 coffee producers from over 80 countries, alongside nine national pavilions, including first-time participation from Kenya and Peru.

During the event, 14 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) were signed, reflecting growing cooperation between companies and institutions operating in the specialty coffee sector.

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

The exhibition program included four international championships covering the Barista, Latte Art, Roasting, and International Cevze/Ibrik categories. The competitions brought together professional competitors from different countries and highlighted the technical skills associated with specialty coffee preparation.

The event also featured three specialized auctions that connected buyers with selected micro-lot coffees and professional coffee equipment. In addition, the Producer Village included 14 dedicated spaces presenting coffee cultivation practices from different producing regions.

The next edition, World of Coffee Dubai 2027, is scheduled to take place January 26–28, 2027, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, across Za’abeel Halls 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6.

Organizers indicated that preparations for the upcoming edition include expanding the exhibition space by more than 5,000 square meters, a step aimed at accommodating the continued growth of the coffee sector and the increasing demand for participation from companies and producers.

The 2026 edition received support from a number of industry partners, including DMCC Coffee Centre, IRM Flavour Design, Alpro, Gold-Pood, Mokha, Sulalat, The Rompeplan, and Tasteful.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

Simonelli Group at World of Coffee Dubai with Victoria Arduino and 3TEMP

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Qahwa World

From January 18 to 20, Simonelli Group will be a key player at World of Coffee Dubai (Stand ZN5-4). During the event, the Group will present a comprehensive vision of coffee evolution — from espresso to brewing — through its brands Victoria Arduino and 3TEMP.

  • Victoria Arduino: Where Aesthetics Meets Taste

The Victoria Arduino space at WOC Dubai is designed as an immersive experience, where aesthetics and cutting-edge technology come together to redefine the contemporary espresso ritual.

  • Not to be missed:

Eagle One – Official Espresso Machine of the UAE Barista Competition
Eagle One will stand alongside the best baristas in the region during one of the world’s most prestigious competitions. Iconic, sustainable, and performance-driven, Eagle One represents a new generation of espresso machines, designed to ensure precision, energy efficiency, and excellence in the cup — even at the highest competitive levels.

Victoria Arduino Exclusive Party: L’Atelier Arrives in Dubai
On January 18 at 7:00 PM, Victoria Arduino invites guests to its Experience Lab in Dubai to discover L’Atelier, a new narrative space dedicated to creativity, craftsmanship, and timeless design.
Inspired by the world of luxury ateliers, this project redefines customization, transforming each coffee machine into not only a professional tool, but a unique design piece.
Subscribe here to reserve your spot at the Exclusive Party in Dubai – Victoria Arduino.

Tasting Experiences with Leading Roasters
At Stand ZN5-4, Victoria Arduino will host a series of tasting sessions featuring some of the most important partners in the coffee world. The program includes roasters such as Peet’s, Dukamo, Goldbox, Base Coffee, and Caffeine Lab.
Partners will rotate in a relay of sensory experiences, supported by the Black Eagle Maverick and E1 Prima PRO espresso machines.

Beyond delivering excellence in the cup, Victoria Arduino coffee machines are true design and communication elements, expressing values of aesthetics, precision, and innovation.

  • 3TEMP: Brewing Culture

Simonelli Group’s journey at WOC Dubai continues with 3TEMP, the brand redefining professional brewing. Born from filter coffee culture and designed to offer extraction freedom — hot, cold, or concentrated — 3TEMP introduces boilerless, cloud-connected brewers defined by a sustainable design approach.

At Stand ZN5-4, 3TEMP will host a series of tasting sessions with leading coffee partners, featuring roasters such as Source Coffee, Julith, Benchmark, Joud, Roots by Earth, and Subko.

This year at World of Coffee Dubai, 3TEMP accompanies the journey of the WOC Runners, offering unique tastings and cutting-edge coffee experiences. From hot filter coffee to cold or concentrated brews, every extraction becomes a healthy and functional ingredient — ideal for athletes looking to enhance performance.

The first WOC Runners 2026 event will take place on Monday, January 19 at 6:30 AM (Dubai time) at Salt Kite Beach. The 5-kilometer run, open to coffee lovers from around the world, will follow a scenic out-and-back course along Kite Beach.
To participate, sign up here.

3TEMP empowers a new generation of baristas and consumers, promoting a conscious and contemporary approach to coffee.
It’s not just brewing. It’s Brewing Culture.