The Gulf Bar Show: Middle East's First Dedicated Bar Trade Event Set For April 2025

Dubai is about to host its most significant hospitality event yet. And no, it's not another luxury food festival. This time, the bar and beverage world is stepping into the spotlight.

For the first time, the Middle East is getting its own dedicated bar and beverage trade show, and it's set to shake up the industry like never before. The Gulf Bar Show (GBS) is coming to Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, on April 7-8, 2025, and its lineup of global icons is nothing short of extraordinary.

Imagine this: some of the biggest names in mixology, the pioneers of sustainable bartending, the legends of hospitality, and the business minds shaping the future of bars—all under one roof, for two days of masterclasses, tastings, workshops, and networking.

Here's why The Gulf Bar Show is poised to be a game-changer for the MENA region's hospitality industry.

GBS isn't just another trade expo—it's a knowledge hub, bringing world-renowned bartenders, thought leaders, and industry innovators to the Middle East. Some of the biggest names in the business will be leading exclusive masterclasses and discussions, sharing their expertise on everything from cocktail craftsmanship to bar sustainability.
- Salvatore 'The Maestro' Calabrese – The man who redefined the art of cocktail making. With a career spanning over 40 years, Calabrese will take attendees through the history and future of mixology, offering insights only a legend could provide.
- Tony Abou-Ganim – A household name in the U.S. bar scene, Abou-Ganim is known for elevating cocktails to an art form. Expect an expert-level breakdown of spirits, flavor pairings, and advanced cocktail techniques.
- Peter Dorelli – Former head bartender of The Savoy, Dorelli brings over 50 years of hospitality expertise to Dubai. His focus? Perfecting the guest experience and mastering the art of service.
- Dré Masso & Jean Trinh – Two of the biggest names in sustainable bartending, these industry visionaries will explore how eco-conscious practices can redefine modern bars—without sacrificing creativity or experience.
- Julio Bermejo – The world's leading Tequila ambassador, Bermejo will take guests on a deep dive into Mexico's most iconic spirit, its evolution, and its global rise in popularity.
- Jared Brown & Anistatia Miller – Cocktail historians with an unmatched knowledge of spirits, these two will guide attendees through the legacy of cocktails and the power of storytelling in bartending.
- Angus Winchester – A world-renowned bar consultant and educator, Winchester will deliver hard-hitting insights on long-term success in the bar business, covering everything from branding to operational excellence.
- Priyanka Blah & Danil Nevsky – Two of the industry's sharpest minds will examine the global evolution of bars, the impact of social media and digital culture, and the future of storytelling in hospitality.

"The hospitality scene in this region is booming—it's an exciting time to be a part of it. The Gulf Bar Show will help us push boundaries and elevate the industry to new heights." – Dré Masso, Co-Creator, Altos Tequila.

More Than Just a Trade Show—This is a Movement

Unlike traditional beverage expos, The Gulf Bar Show is built around education, innovation, and meaningful industry connections.

From deep dives into spirits to cocktail craftsmanship, bar sustainability, and new hospitality models, attendees will walk away with insider knowledge from the industry's best.

- Live Tasting & Cocktail Sessions
Expect exclusive tasting sessions where world-class bartenders showcase their signature techniques and new cocktail innovations.

- 200+ Global Exhibitors
The event will feature cutting-edge brands, the latest bar technology, and premium spirits—giving bartenders and hospitality professionals direct access to the latest industry trends and innovations.

- Business Strategy & Innovation Talks
Industry pioneers will share insights on branding, digital storytelling, and bar operations, ensuring bar professionals stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving market.

- Sustainability in Hospitality
With eco-conscious practices becoming a priority, leaders in the field will break down how bars can embrace sustainability—without compromising on creativity or profitability.

- Networking Like Never Before
From top bartenders to brand leaders and investors, The Gulf Bar Show will serve as the ultimate meeting point for anyone serious about the future of hospitality in the MENA region.

"It is about time the Middle East had its own bar and beverage show—this event is going to showcase not just the talent already in the region, but also provide the tools needed for continued growth." – Angus Winchester

The Middle East is already home to some of the world's most luxurious hotels, bars, and nightlife destinations. But until now, there hasn't been a dedicated platform for education, innovation, and networking within the bar and beverage industry.

This event marks a turning point—bringing legitimacy, global attention, and long-term investment into the region's growing hospitality sector.

With Dubai quickly becoming a global hub for culinary and nightlife excellence, GBS is setting the stage for the region's bars, bartenders, and beverage brands to compete on an international level.

The Gulf Bar Show isn't just another industry event—it's a milestone for the MENA region's hospitality sector. If you're a bartender, mixologist, brand ambassador, hospitality professional, or beverage industry leader, this is the one event you can't afford to miss.
- Event Dates: April 7-8, 2025
- Location: Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
- For more details and to secure your spot, visit: www.gulfbarshow.com
Follow @gulfbarshow on Instagram and Gulf Bar Show on LinkedIn for the latest updates.
This is more than a show. This is the future of bar culture in the Middle East.