DUBAI (ALETIHAD)
The curtains have closed on World of Coffee Dubai 2024, another successful event organised by DXB Live in collaboration with the Specialty Coffee Association, leaving the UAE beaming with pride. The exhibition witnessed an extraordinary turnout, with more than 13,000 specialised visitors, reflecting a remarkable 30% growth compared to the previous year.
National Barista Championship and Latte Art Winners
The highlight of the closing day was the UAE National Barista Championship, where the most skilled baristas in the country showcased their talents, vying for the coveted title and the chance to represent the country at the World Barista Championship. Michaela Rnazol from Typica Cafe clinched the first-place victory, followed by Kemal Risyad from Archers Coffee in second place, and Nooran Al Bannay from Coffee Architecture securing the third spot.
In the Latte Art category, Mondrick Alpas from Gold Box Roastery claimed the top spot, with Angelo Lagata from Number Five Gate in second place, and Jatfikly Raymond Ampuan from DRVN by Porsche taking third place.
The closing day also featured three engaging lectures, enriching the event’s educational component. Demian and Mergen of Abro initiated the discussions, while Ben Hilt, AST Director at the Specialty Coffee Association, delved into the details of the New Specialty Coffee Association Skills Diploma. Andreas Zehnder delivered a thought-provoking lecture on 'The Economics of Coffee Extraction Plants: Analysing Returns on Sustainability Investment.'
DXB LIVE Senior VP Comments
Khalid Al Hammadi, Senior Vice President of DXB LIVE, expressed his satisfaction with the event, stating, “The latest edition of the World of Coffee Dubai 2024 exhibition has generated significant interest among stakeholders and enthusiasts in the coffee industry, drawing participation from international contributors, who showcased their products and equipment.”
Speaking about this year’s event, he said “This edition mainly focused on sustainability of the coffee industry while fostering coffee culture among consumers by providing educational platforms covering coffee varieties and preparation methods. The exhibition reflected a remarkable turnout, with visitors numbering nearly four times that of the inaugural edition of the event.”
Al Hammadi voiced his company’s excitement to work on the fourth edition of this event for the year 2025, “given the remarkable success achieved by this year's edition.”
Kyrgyz Republic Consul General Extends Invitation to Emirati Companies
During his visit, Timur AbdiJalil, the Consul General of the Kyrgyz Republic in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, highlighted the increasing trade and investments between Kyrgyzstan and the UAE. He expressed his admiration for “high-quality” Emirati coffee and extended an invitation to UAE coffee companies participating in the exhibition to explore opportunities in Kyrgyzstan.
“The volume of trade between the Kyrgyz Republic and the United Arab Emirates has witnessed a significant increase during the first 10 months of 2023, registering a twofold increase compared to the same period in 2022. In addition, UAE investments in Kyrgyzstan have surged to USD 31,422,000, nearly tripling the investment made in 2022,” he said.
World of Coffee Dubai 2024 saw the participation of over 1,650 exhibitors and brands from 51 countries across 15,000 square meters, solidifying its status as a pivotal international hub for the coffee industry. The exhibition fostered valuable connections and collaborations among local, regional, and international companies and brands. The anticipation for the fourth edition is already building, set to take place from February 10 to 12, 2025.