Netherlands At Gulfood 2026: 72 Dutch Companies Showcase Dairy, Meat And Beverages In Dubai

Seventy-two Dutch companies are taking part in Gulfood 2026, underscoring rising Dutch interest in the UAE and wider regional food and beverage markets. Exhibitors view the event as a strategic entry point for trade with Gulf states and neighbouring regions.

Caroline Cramer, Managing Director of Orange Exhibition Management and organiser of the Dutch pavilion, said that Dutch participation is divided between Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai, with most exhibitors based at the Dubai World Trade Centre location.

According to Cramer, around 20 Dutch companies are displaying products at the Expo City Dubai venue, while the remaining participants occupy stands at Dubai World Trade Centre. The Dubai World Trade Centre exhibitors mainly target dairy, meat, seafood and beverage segments aimed at international and regional buyers.

The Dutch pavilion itself features 27 businesses that specialise in meat and dairy products, alongside companies active across other food categories and beverages. This mix highlights the importance of animal protein and dairy exports for Dutch industry, while also showcasing a wider portfolio to meet varied regional demand.

Cramer reported a 50 percent increase in exhibition space allocated to Dutch participants compared with earlier editions. The number of Dutch companies rose to 72, up from 65 last year, indicating stronger commercial interest in the Gulf and a deeper commitment to the UAE market.

The Netherlands has been represented at Gulfood for about 25 years, with Cramer describing the long-running participation as a response to the event’s global profile and international reach. Dutch producers, especially in dairy, regard the fair as an efficient point for regular engagement with trade partners.

Gulfood 2026 strategic role of Dubai and Dutch products

Cramer noted that Dutch products, and dairy items such as cheese in particular, hold a firm worldwide reputation for quality and reliability. Dutch companies see the UAE as a suitable base to grow business and secure lasting partnerships across regional food and beverage markets.

Cramer also stated that Dubai acts as a commercial bridge between Asia and Europe and serves as a key access route to Gulf markets. Dutch exhibitors therefore view Gulfood participation as strategically important for expanding regional reach while keeping a consistent presence in a major global trade hub.

With inputs from WAM