Dubai: Coffee consumption across the Middle East is accelerating, reinforcing the region's position as a dynamic and advanced specialty coffee market. This momentum comes as World of Coffee Dubai gears up for its fifth edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 18th to 20th January 2026, reflecting a regional transformation in coffee consumption patterns, supply chains, and trade mechanisms.
According to Emirates News Agency, the exhibition is organized by DXB LIVE, in partnership with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). The event has expanded significantly, growing from 5,000 square metres in 2022 to over 20,000 square metres in 2026, highlighting the rising demand for specialty coffee across the Middle East and North Africa. This growth is being driven by the expansion of caf© culture, increased interest in coffee origins, and the rise of premium consumption.
The UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to lead this transformation. The UAE's coffee market exceeds AED12 billion (approximately US$3.2 billion), with Dubai strengthening its position as one of the world's most caf©-dense cities. This is supported by a marked increase in out-of-home coffee consumption, particularly in caf©s and restaurants, accounting for approximately 93% of total coffee spending, one of the highest rates globally.
In Saudi Arabia, the market hosts over 5,100 branded caf©s, representing nearly half of all branded caf©s in the region. Daily consumption exceeds 36 million cups of coffee, with the total number of registered caf©s surpassing 61,000, ranging from specialty caf©s to traditional coffee majlis.
Meanwhile, North African and Levant markets, particularly Egypt and Morocco, are witnessing notable growth. Coffee consumption in Egypt has doubled over the past five years, while Morocco recorded a 23% increase in coffee imports in 2024. Across the region, the branded caf© sector has grown by more than 11%, driven by a youthful population, with over 60% under the age of 35, who increasingly view coffee as a lifestyle, cultural experience, and form of personal expression.
The expansion of World of Coffee Dubai marks a new phase of maturity for the region's coffee ecosystem, now operating on a greater scale and within a more integrated framework. From wholesalers and tech-driven startups to fully integrated roasteries, the Middle East coffee sector is rapidly evolving toward a sustainable and interconnected network uniting producers, buyers, and innovators.
Khalid Al Mulla, Chairman of the Specialty Coffee Association - UAE Chapter, noted that the region's growth is reflected not only in the proliferation of caf©s or consumption figures but also in the infrastructure being developed across the value chain. Shouq bin Redha, Director of World of Coffee Dubai, highlighted the emergence of a new generation of entrepreneurs, producers, and importers driving innovation, sustainability, and long-term growth in the sector.
While caf© culture continues to draw attention, the supporting infrastructure is evolving rapidly. Green coffee imports across the GCC have increased, with Dubai emerging as a regional re-export hub, where re-export values exceeded AED3.5 billion in 2024, supported by investments in warehousing, cupping laboratories, quality control centres, and specialized trading platforms.
World of Coffee Dubai 2026 continues to play a pivotal role in driving this growth, with its upcoming edition set to attract leading coffee companies and brands worldwide. The event will feature three coffee auctions, local and international championships, and accredited workshops and educational programmes, while exhibitors will showcase the latest innovations and advanced technologies across every stage of the coffee value chain.