Middle East gets its ‘first’ bar show
The first edition of the Gulf Bar Show (GBS) will take place on 7-8 April at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah hotel.
Its organisers claim the event, which will be annual, is the ‘first’ dedicated bar and beverage trade show in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Co-founder Hugo Goncalves said: “We have created GBS to celebrate the vibrant bar culture of the region and to provide a platform where industry professionals, brands, and enthusiasts can come together to share ideas, showcase talent, and elevate the standards of the bar scene.
“Our goal is to make this a cornerstone event that highlights the creativity and innovation shaping the future of the industry in the Gulf.”
The show aims to position the region at the forefront of the global beverage industry, providing a universal platform for sector professionals and brands to collaborate, innovate, and explore regional and global trends.
The event space will cover more than 4,500 square metres, with more than 200 exhibitors attending, both global and regional.
Alongside more than 30 seminars, masterclasses, tasting sessions, workshops, and symposiums, GBS will also host competitions and industry awards.
Co-founder Sebouh Tato added: “Inspired by the wisdom of the Spanish saying, ‘The shrimp that sleeps is carried away by the waves,’ we are reminded that passion and dedication can never rest. It’s not enough to merely endure; we must rise with purpose and a heightened sense of awareness.
“For over three decades, I’ve been dedicated to building something truly remarkable. Now, alongside the incredible team behind GBS, I’m ready to channel that momentum, push boundaries, and surpass expectations.
“Let us not be the sleeping shrimp, but those who embrace the waves with unwavering purpose, driving our collective vision to extraordinary new heights.”
Themed areas at the show will include The Terrace, with a cigar lounge; Les Apéritifs; Cold Sober; and Planet-Loving/Wellness spaces.
The Main Hall will focus on Tech & Liquor, while the MENA Heritage Hall will showcase regional brands and products.
Additional areas include the Networking Hall, the Think Tank, Tasting Rooms, Startup Corner, NET Networking for sponsors, and Laze Away for breaks.
Other spaces will focus on mental health awareness and support for industry professionals, including wellness workshops, quiet zones, and discussions about work-life balance and industry pressures.
The show will also align with the UAE’s sustainability goals through a partnership with Green Sheikh, which supports local reforestation efforts. It will also collaborate with B Corp consultants to establish sustainable practices for trade shows in the region, setting benchmarks for waste reduction, energy efficiency and responsible sourcing.
Last year, Africa hosted its first biannual cocktail festival, Ajabu. The event is set to return to two cities in 2025.
Related news
Neurita gains UK on-trade listings
