Celebrating the best of MENA’s bar scene
Dubai’s drinks scene is getting a major shake-up this March as the Gulf Bar Show (GBS) returns for its second edition, promising two packed days of talks, tastings and international bar takeovers.
Taking over Madinat Jumeirah Conference & Events Centre on March 30 and 31, 2026, the event runs daily from 12pm to 9pm and is set to double in size following its successful debut last year. Still the first and only dedicated bar and beverage trade show in the MENA region, GBS 2026 revolves around the theme The Bar Craft, celebrating the skill and creativity behind world-class drinks and hospitality.
For the Regional Bar Scene
Built around the pillars of culture, craftsmanship and community, this year’s show is expanding to a
n impressive 8,000 square metre exhibition space. More than 175 exhibitors and over 3,000 visitors from MENA, Eastern Europe and Central Asia are expected to attend.
Co-founder Hugo Goncalves describes the event as more than just stands and showcases. “It’s about energy – the kind you get when the people shaping the industry are in the same room,” he says, promising immersive activations that spotlight technique, storytelling and innovation.
Tastings, Seminars and Star Speakers
Education remains at the heart of the programme. Across the two days, visitors can tap into more than 20 seminars, workshops and talks, alongside 12 guided tastings led by some of the drinks world’s most respected figures.
Big names taking the stage include cocktail legend Salvatore Calabrese, Philip Duff, Lauren Mote and Ed Cottrell. Joining them are new speakers such as Charlotte Voisey of Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, author and bartender Tristan Stephenson, Global Rum Ambassador Ian Burrell and award-winning talents including David Rios and Márcio Silva.
Major industry partners feature brands such as Bacardí, Campari Group, Diageo and Pernod Ricard, alongside category sponsors including Red Bull and NUDE Glassware, delivered in collaboration with MMI and A&E.
Across the City
The action won’t be limited to Madinat Jumeirah. A Dubai-wide programme of more than 20 guest shifts and special events will roll out across the city, bringing international bartenders into some of Dubai’s top venues for exclusive collaborations.
GBS 2026 will also host the World Class Regional Final and a joint activation with Tales of the Cocktail and the Spirited Awards, further cementing Dubai’s growing status on the global bar calendar. Co-founder Sebouh Tato says the industry response has been overwhelming, calling this year’s edition “bigger and more impactful”.
Image credit: Pinterest
Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
Contact me: zainab@nommemag.com
