Attending Gulfood 2025 in Dubai from February 17-21 was, as always, an enriching experience—one that seamlessly blended business, networking, and the unmistakable glamour of Dubai. This year, the event was bigger than ever, reaffirming its position as the world’s leading F&B trade show, where global trends take shape, and industry leaders converge.
The F&B Leadership Summit 2025 at the Etihad Museum set the tone for the week. Thought leaders like Saleh Lootah and Maryam AlBastaki provided deep insights into the evolving food landscape, sustainability, and the shifting dynamics of supply chains. Their perspectives were thought-provoking, underscoring how the UAE is positioning itself at the forefront of food security and innovation.
As part of the CII delegation from India, my visits to the India Pavilion and key exhibitors from around the world reinforced India’s growing stature in the global food trade. The presence of cutting-edge agri-tech solutions, dairy innovations, and alternative proteins highlighted how the sector is rapidly evolving. Conversations with exporters and policy-makers painted a promising picture for India’s role in shaping the future of F&B.
A key moment of the visit was my interaction with Chirag Paswan, India’s Minister for Food Processing. His vision for India’s food sector—rooted in modernization, value addition, and expanding global footprints—was compelling. His emphasis on streamlining regulations, boosting food exports, and attracting investments underscored how the government is aligning policy with industry needs. Given his leadership in this crucial sector, it was insightful to hear his thoughts firsthand on where India is headed in the global F&B space.
Santosh Sivan, the Indian Consul General in Dubai, was a gracious host, adding warmth to the formal engagements and reinforcing the strength of Indo-UAE ties.
Dubai’s evenings, as expected, were a mix of formal dinners and casual meetups, offering the perfect backdrop to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. The city’s dazzling energy made each conversation—whether about business, cricket, or shared memories—more vibrant.
Serendipitous encounters are always part of such trips, and this time, I found myself in chance meetings with Wasim Akram and Muttiah Muralidaran, two cricketing legends. With the ongoing cricket tournament in the background, these moments were a reminder of how Dubai seamlessly brings together people from different worlds, be it business or sports.
Gulfood has always been more than an exhibition—it’s an ecosystem where ideas flow, collaborations take root, and the future of F&B is shaped. As I wrap up this year’s visit, I carry back not just insights and connections, but also a renewed appreciation for how global trade, diplomacy, and even cricket can intersect in the most unexpected yet meaningful ways.
Until next time, Dubai.
