Sheikh Maktoum Highlights Dubai's F&B Innovation At Gulfood 2024
H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance, recently visited the 29th edition of Gulfood, the premier annual global food and beverage (F&B) sourcing event. During his tour, Sheikh Maktoum emphasized Dubai's pivotal role in driving innovation, sustainability, and excellence within major global industries. He remarked that Gulfood 2024 serves as a testament to Dubai's influence as a catalyst for growth in the worldwide sector.
Sheikh Maktoum underscored the significance of this year's event in creating new opportunities, partnerships, and insights that promise to bolster the global F&B ecosystem and supply chain. He pointed out that such events are instrumental in furthering the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the city’s GDP and position it among the top three urban economies globally.

The extensive international participation at Gulfood highlights Dubai's capacity to establish platforms that facilitate market connections and gather talent, investors, and innovators from around the world. This convergence is seen as a key driver for unlocking potential in critical industries. Sheikh Maktoum's visit was accompanied by Helal Al Marri, Director-General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA).
Gulfood 2024, held from 19-23 February, attracted 5,500 exhibitors and visitors from 190 countries. Sheikh Maktoum explored a broad array of products, services, and technological innovations aimed at reducing costs, enhancing efficiency, cutting down food waste, promoting sustainability, and strengthening supply chains within the F&B industry.
This year’s edition of Gulfood not only showcased the latest trends and ideas shaping the future of the food industry but also reinforced Dubai's strategic position in facilitating global industry advancements. The event's success in drawing vast global participation underscores the emirate's effectiveness in connecting diverse markets and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
With inputs from WAM