Latest news with #Gulfood2025
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
What's cooking in the Gulf? Health, heritage and premium imports reshape GCC dining
Healthier meals, fusion menus, and premium food imports are defining how Gulf residents eat in 2025/Representative Image TL;DR: GCC consumers are shifting toward healthier, experience-led dining, favouring plant-based, functional, and fusion cuisine . Technology is reshaping dining from digital menus and loyalty apps to cloud kitchens and delivery-first models. The region's appeal for culinary tourism is growing, boosted by premium events and immersive food experiences. Imported staples from organic produce to halal meat and gourmet goods—are flourishing, supported by rising incomes and diverse expat communities. In 2025, GCC countries, from Abu Dhabi to Muscat are redefining their culinary identities. Driven by heightened wellness awareness, tech adoption, and global travel aspirations, diners are no longer satisfied with traditional meals; they seek knowledge, novelty, and convenience. Concurrently, the region is importing more health-oriented and halal-certified foods than ever before to meet these evolving preferences. Here's how consumer habits and food trade are reshaping the GCC's food scene. Health-Centric Dining Takes Center Stage A surge in wellness consciousness continues to reshape menus across the Gulf. According to Global Trend Monitor, diners now prioritize nutrient-rich, organic, and plant-based options, looking beyond taste to wellness impact. GCC governments support this shift such as Saudi and UAE initiatives promoting preventive health which encourages food businesses to integrate functional ingredients like probiotics, adaptogens, and collagen into their offerings. At Gulfood 2025, plant-based innovations dominated the event, with over 150,000 new products targeting vegan and vegetarian consumers. Many restaurants now feature vegan bowls, gluten-free desserts, and artisanal salads, reflecting diners' demand for healthy, guilt-free indulgence. Fusion, Experience & Tech-Driven Dining Blend Seamlessly Menus in 2025 are increasingly global. The GCC's cosmopolitan fabric has birthed a culinary blend, melding local Emirati or Saudi ingredients with international techniques to create authentic fusion dishes that resonate with both locals and expats. Dining is now as much entertainment as it is nourishment. According to Global Trend Monitor, immersive experiences; from chef's tables and thematic pop-ups to interactive workshops are drawing patrons seeking more than just meals. Luxury events like Taste of Dubai even highlight theatrical dining and multi-sensory stations. These experiences are supported by technology. Restaurants employ mobile reservations, digital menus, and data-driven loyalty programs, fulfilling modern expectations and capturing valuable customer behaviour insights. Delivery-First & Cloud Kitchens Boom The rise of food delivery apps such as Talabat, Careem NOW, and Noon Food has revolutionized the industry. Brands across Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha are racing to establish ghost kitchens—delivery-only operations designed for efficiency and speed. These cloud kitchens offer specially optimized flavours, portioning, and cold-chain supply to maintain quality during transit. Source International, a supply chain firm, reported a 30% sales boost at a Qatari cafe after introducing vegan bowls tailored for delivery. At Dubai Food Festival 2025, ghost kitchens and JIT (just-in-time) ingredient models took center stage, reflecting the logistics shift underpinning modern dining. Culinary Tourism & Premium Food Exports The Gulf is emerging as a gastronomic destination as well as an importer of fine foods. Investment in Michelin-level experiences, upscale food festivals, and food tourism is spotlighted by the UAE's role in the Michelin Guide Awards 2025, with a global jury praising Dubai's evolving culinary scene. Visitor-focused food tours like desert dining experiences and local market explorations are increasingly woven into tourism offerings. On the import front, Rowyal projects strong demand in 2025 for health-oriented and premium goods: Organic fruits and vegetables, superfoods, and plant-based proteins. Halal-certified convenience meals, meats, and sweets. Specialty items like artisanal cheeses, premium coffees and teas, truffles, and caviar. This demand mirrors rising incomes and the region's cosmopolitan appetite. Sustainability & Local Adaptation GCC governments are bolstering domestic food production to complement imports. A Research and Markets analysis notes investments in desalination-backed farms, vertical agriculture, and new dams, in efforts to secure food supply. For example, Bahrain is expected to record the highest food consumption growth in GCC, with a significant GDP rise between 2024 and 2030. At the same time, imported foods often feature eco-friendly packaging and transparent sourcing to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Plastic reduction programs and biodegradable containers are becoming standard in the premium and organic categories. What's Next in GCC Dining Trends Looking ahead, the GCC's dining scene is poised for further evolution driven by technology, sustainability, and local innovation. Restaurants are increasingly integrating AI-powered personalisation tools, enabling customised menus tailored to customers' health data, preferences, and dietary restrictions. The farm-to-table movement is gaining ground with the rise of vertical farming and hydroponic solutions across the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which aim to reduce dependency on imported produce while ensuring freshness. Sustainability is also becoming central, with new regulations expected by late 2025 to mandate eco-friendly packaging in the food industry, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the adoption of crypto and contactless payments is accelerating, especially in premium dining venues in Dubai and Riyadh, reflecting the region's embrace of fintech trends. Additionally, governments are investing in culinary education and talent development, Saudi Arabia's Culinary Arts Commission, for example, is actively nurturing local chefs and enhancing the Gulf's capacity to offer world-class, homegrown gastronomy. The GCC's food landscape in 2025 is undergoing a significant transformation: diners are embracing healthier choices, immersive experiences, and tech solutions; businesses are optimizing for delivery and sustainability; and the region is successfully expanding its fine food imports in line with evolving consumer tastes. For local operators, success lies in balancing health, authenticity, innovation, and convenience. For global exporters, aligning with GCC demand means offering halal certification, nutritional value, functional benefits, eco-packaging, and authenticity.
Malaysian Reserve
03-06-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Bella Sun Luci Goes Global At Gulfood Exposition
CHICO, Calif., June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Bella Sun Luci product line has expanded to new international markets, continuing its global growth showcased in Dubai at Gulfood 2025. This expansion represents a key milestone in Mooney Farms' continued global growth. From humble beginnings, the Mooney family began selling their products at farmers' markets forty years ago and is now selling internationally. The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence is the key to its success. While sun-dried tomatoes are produced globally, it's Bella Sun Luci's rich, California-grown flavor that's capturing consumer attention and fueling a surge in market demand. This dynamic expansion follows Mooney Farms' successful market entries in the Philippines, Canada, Mexico, and South America. With global demand rising for healthier, cleaner food choices, Bella Sun Luci's California sun-dried tomatoes are striking a chord with international consumers seeking bold flavor and premium quality. Bella Sun Luci sun-dried tomatoes are gaining global attention due to the innovative approach Mooney Farms takes in crafting every jar. The process of making sun-dried tomatoes in California is different from the methods used in other countries. Traditionally, sun-dried tomatoes have an overly salty and pungent taste, often a result of salt-heavy drying techniques. In contrast, Mooney Farms uses a process that creates a naturally sweet sun-dried tomato without added salt. Bella Sun Luci tomatoes are sun-dried in California, never coated in salt, and always packed with the finest ingredients. Mooney Farms' unique technology and drying techniques continue to set its products apart in a growing global market. The result is a sun-dried tomato that's naturally flavorful, rich in antioxidants, and perfectly suited for today's health-forward kitchens. Mooney Farms is a vertically integrated company and oversees every step of the process from seed to jar. They use the finest ingredients in all of their products. Unlike competitors who rely on gas ovens, Mooney Farms harnesses the power of the California sun, using 100% natural energy to dry their tomatoes. Our California sun-dried tomatoes are crafted with unmatched quality. Unlike many other sun-dried tomato products on the market, Bella Sun Luci sun-dried tomatoes are always packed in olive oil—never seed oils—prioritizing the health-conscious choices of today's consumers. The brand's global growth is further fueled by the influence of social media, which has allowed Bella Sun Luci to connect with audiences around the world through recipes, nutrition tips, and culinary inspiration. On this global stage, the brand continues to gain recognition, especially among health-conscious consumers seeking clean, flavorful ingredients. Bella Sun Luci fits perfectly into this growing worldwide demand for healthier food options, offering a premium sun-dried. Founded in 1986, Mooney Farms is a third-generation, certified woman-owned, family company rooted in quality, integrity, and family values. Mooney Farms has grown to be the premier producer of sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil in the United States. Mooney Farms is vertically integrated. The family oversees every step from seed to jar, sourcing all ingredients locally to ensure freshness and exceptional quality in every jar. Their innovation continues to meet the demands of the modern consumer, offering a cleaner, more sustainable option for today's wide variety of recipients. Mooney Farms has a 100,000 square foot facility and 200-year-old olive trees planted among rows of lavender and rosemary, which reflects the family's rich history of the Mediterranean. Its flagship product line, Bella Sun Luci, features premium California-grown and Mediterranean-inspired foods created from authentic family recipes. Bella Sun Luci's sun-dried tomatoes add genuine Mediterranean flavor to homemade appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, and more. The Bella Sun Luci line also includes a new 100% olive oil Salad Dressings, Plant-Based Tomato Jerky, Pasta Sauces, Bruschetta Spreads, Bottled Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Risotto, and Marinades. Visit to learn more and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Press Contact: Abigail ThorpeMooney Farms530-899-2661pr@
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bella Sun Luci Goes Global At Gulfood Exposition
CHICO, Calif., June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bella Sun Luci product line has expanded to new international markets, continuing its global growth showcased in Dubai at Gulfood 2025. This expansion represents a key milestone in Mooney Farms' continued global growth. From humble beginnings, the Mooney family began selling their products at farmers' markets forty years ago and is now selling internationally. The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence is the key to its success. While sun-dried tomatoes are produced globally, it's Bella Sun Luci's rich, California-grown flavor that's capturing consumer attention and fueling a surge in market demand. This dynamic expansion follows Mooney Farms' successful market entries in the Philippines, Canada, Mexico, and South America. With global demand rising for healthier, cleaner food choices, Bella Sun Luci's California sun-dried tomatoes are striking a chord with international consumers seeking bold flavor and premium quality. Bella Sun Luci sun-dried tomatoes are gaining global attention due to the innovative approach Mooney Farms takes in crafting every jar. The process of making sun-dried tomatoes in California is different from the methods used in other countries. Traditionally, sun-dried tomatoes have an overly salty and pungent taste, often a result of salt-heavy drying techniques. In contrast, Mooney Farms uses a process that creates a naturally sweet sun-dried tomato without added salt. Bella Sun Luci tomatoes are sun-dried in California, never coated in salt, and always packed with the finest ingredients. Mooney Farms' unique technology and drying techniques continue to set its products apart in a growing global market. The result is a sun-dried tomato that's naturally flavorful, rich in antioxidants, and perfectly suited for today's health-forward kitchens. Mooney Farms is a vertically integrated company and oversees every step of the process from seed to jar. They use the finest ingredients in all of their products. Unlike competitors who rely on gas ovens, Mooney Farms harnesses the power of the California sun, using 100% natural energy to dry their tomatoes. Our California sun-dried tomatoes are crafted with unmatched quality. Unlike many other sun-dried tomato products on the market, Bella Sun Luci sun-dried tomatoes are always packed in olive oil—never seed oils—prioritizing the health-conscious choices of today's consumers. The brand's global growth is further fueled by the influence of social media, which has allowed Bella Sun Luci to connect with audiences around the world through recipes, nutrition tips, and culinary inspiration. On this global stage, the brand continues to gain recognition, especially among health-conscious consumers seeking clean, flavorful ingredients. Bella Sun Luci fits perfectly into this growing worldwide demand for healthier food options, offering a premium sun-dried. Founded in 1986, Mooney Farms is a third-generation, certified woman-owned, family company rooted in quality, integrity, and family values. Mooney Farms has grown to be the premier producer of sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil in the United States. Mooney Farms is vertically integrated. The family oversees every step from seed to jar, sourcing all ingredients locally to ensure freshness and exceptional quality in every jar. Their innovation continues to meet the demands of the modern consumer, offering a cleaner, more sustainable option for today's wide variety of recipients. Mooney Farms has a 100,000 square foot facility and 200-year-old olive trees planted among rows of lavender and rosemary, which reflects the family's rich history of the Mediterranean. Its flagship product line, Bella Sun Luci, features premium California-grown and Mediterranean-inspired foods created from authentic family recipes. Bella Sun Luci's sun-dried tomatoes add genuine Mediterranean flavor to homemade appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, and more. The Bella Sun Luci line also includes a new 100% olive oil Salad Dressings, Plant-Based Tomato Jerky, Pasta Sauces, Bruschetta Spreads, Bottled Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Risotto, and Marinades. Visit to learn more and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Press Contact: Abigail ThorpeMooney Farms530-899-2661pr@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Mooney Farms Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Mid East Info
07-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai International Chamber attracts 53 companies from across the globe to Dubai during Q1 2025, achieving year-over-year growth of 39%
• H.E. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem: 'We are continuing to strengthen our efforts to attract foreign direct investment to Dubai and showcase the emirate's competitive advantages and wide range of opportunities for companies and investors from across the globe.' • The chamber achieved 120% year-over-year (YoY) growth in the number of multinational companies attracted to Dubai during Q1 2025. • During the same period, the chamber attracted 42 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to Dubai, representing YoY growth of 27%. Dubai, UAE – Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers operating under Dubai Chambers, has announced details of its key achievements during the first quarter of 2025. Throughout the three-month period, the chamber has continued to play a pivotal role in attracting foreign direct investment to the emirate and cementing Dubai's position as a leading global business destination. Dubai International Chamber successfully attracted 53 companies to Dubai during Q1 2025, representing a 39% increase compared to 38 companies attracted in Q1 2024. These included 11 multinational companies (MNCs), marking a 120% increase over the five attracted in Q1 2024. Meanwhile, 42 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) were attracted during Q1 2025, representing YoY growth of 27% compared to the 33 attracted during the same period last year. His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of Dubai International Chamber, stated: 'We are continuing to strengthen our efforts to attract foreign direct investment to Dubai and showcase the emirate's competitive advantages and wide range of opportunities for companies and investors from across the globe.' His Excellency added: 'Dubai International Chamber's network of international offices plays a vital role in strengthening Dubai's global investment appeal by attracting businesses from around the world. These companies are leveraging Dubai's competitive advantages to accelerate their local and international expansion, further strengthening the emirate's status as a leading global hub for trade and investments.' As part of its activities during the first quarter, Dubai International Chamber hosted a high-level business networking event on the sidelines of Gulfood 2025. The event was attended by 415 representatives from leading local and international companies in the food and beverage sector. The session offered insights into the latest data and trends shaping the UAE's food industry and highlighted Dubai's strategic role as a global centre for food trade and production.
Mid East Info
22-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Gorilla Energy Names Global Beverage Veteran Ahmed Elafifi as CEO With a Track Record at Coca-Cola and Red Bull, Elafifi to Lead Gorilla Energy's Next Phase of Global Growth and Cultural Relevance
Dubai, UAE – [April 22, 2025] – Gorilla Energy, one of the world's fastest-growing energy drink brands, today announced the appointment of Ahmed Elafifi as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With more than 30 years of experience building some of the beverage industry's most iconic brands—including Coca-Cola, Monster, Burn, and Red Bull—Elafifi is set to lead Gorilla's next phase of bold expansion and brand evolution. With operations spanning 29 countries, a strong #1 market position in three key energy drink markets in Asia and a sales trajectory approaching one billion cans, Gorilla is well-positioned to become one of the top five global energy drink brands by capturing revenue opportunities in the energy drinks market which is projected to grow by over $10 billion till 2030. Under Elafifi's leadership, the company will double down on its presence across key markets in North America, Asia, and the Middle East, and continue to push boundaries with new product innovation and culturally driven marketing. 'I joined Gorilla to build a fresh, global energy drink and lifestyle brand for a generation that refuses to settle for the same old choices,' said Ahmed Elafifi, CEO of Gorilla Energy. 'Every one of us is on a journey to define who we are—and Gorilla Energy powers that instinct to break away, try new things, and go all in on what makes us unique.' Earlier this year, Gorilla Energy made waves with the launch of Gorilla 'Ultimate', a new proprietary energy blend revealed at Gulfood 2025—a key milestone as the brand prepares to scale up production with a new facility and strengthen its innovation pipeline. Its leadership and marketing teams operate out of Dubai and Los Angeles, with the company intentionally keeping its structure agile, fast-moving, and free from corporate bureaucracy. 'We're not trying to be like the legacy brands—we're building something different,' Elafifi added. 'We believe in authenticity, creativity, and real impact. Our job is to fuel ambition and self-expression, not dictate lifestyles. That's how we'll continue earning the trust of today's consumers.' With roots in New York and fast-growing presence in over 29 countries, Gorilla Energy is building a community—not just a brand. Its positioning is unapologetically raw, creative, and unfiltered, tapping into sports, music, fashion, and everyday hustle culture. Under Elafifi's leadership, the company will continue to expand in key markets around the World. 'We are thrilled to have Ahmed joining Gorilla Energy. Ahmed has a unique ability to foster an entrepreneurial, fast-paced, adaptable culture while bringing much-needed structure to the team as we continue to expand internationally. Ahmed's tremendous experience, his authenticity, and his innate ability to think outside the box and do things differently make him the ideal candidate to lead Gorilla Energy into the future,' stated Gleb Lifschitz, Co-founder, Gorilla Energy. A Proven Visionary with Global Perspective Elafifi brings a rare combination of corporate expertise and entrepreneurial grit. He has led market breakthroughs at Coca-Cola—including the successful regional launches of Monster and Burn—and oversaw Red Bull's entry into more than 50 countries, helping shape its status as a cultural icon. At Coca-Cola HBC Egypt, he turned around a challenging business into a EGP26 billion success story, secured $100 million in sustainability funding, and delivered record growth. He also founded TranQuini, one of the world's first relaxation beverage brands, launched in over 40 countries—a testament to his ability to predict and create new categories. At Red Bull, Elafifi was a key player in its global expansion, leading the brand's entry into 50+ markets and strengthening its dominance in extreme sports partnerships and cultural marketing. His leadership contributed to several billion Euros in exports for Austria, earning him Austrian citizenship in recognition of his contributions. A global citizen who has lived in 10 countries and led businesses in more than 70, Elafifi blends global perspective with local insight. He holds executive education credentials from IMD, Wharton, and Goizueta Business School, and remains passionate about creating social and economic value through business. His leadership will be key to cementing Gorilla's position as a truly global lifestyle brand with strong regional roots. ENDS About Gorilla Energy Gorilla Energy was born in New York City over 15 years ago and has since grown into a bold, fast-moving brand that is now available in 29 countries, with headquarters in Los Angeles and Dubai. The company is rapidly expanding in USA, the Middle East and Asia. Gorilla delivers great-tasting energy drinks packed with functional benefits, fueling the next generation of doers, creators, and risk-takers. With bold flavors, natural caffeine, and no artificial colors or flavors, Gorilla Energy provides the ultimate energy boost for those who refuse to settle. For more information, please visit For media inquiries, please contact: Mohammed Elbatta Fekra Communications E: T: +971.55.5542678
