The United Arab Emirates continue to be a crucial market for Italian exports, with a 6% increase recorded in the first ten months of 2024, amounting to approximately €344 million. In response to this growing demand, Ice Agenzia is present at Gulfood 2025—held at the Dubai World Trade Centre until February 21—with the Italian Food Lab, an area dedicated to showcasing Italian culinary tradition through live masterclasses and show cooking.

Renowned Italian chefs, both based in Dubai and internationally, are leading an immersive experience, demonstrating techniques, traditions, and the exceptional quality of Made in Italy products, preparing signature dishes with ingredients provided by exhibiting companies.

The inauguration of the Italian Food Lab was attended by Lorenzo Fanara, Italy’s Ambassador to the UAE, Edoardo Napoli, Italy’s Consul General in Dubai, Matteo Zoppas, President of Ice Agenzia, and Valerio Soldani, Director of Ice’s Dubai office.

“The export of agri-food products to the UAE from January to October 2024 reached €344 million, marking a +6% growth, excluding tobacco and live animals,” stated Zoppas. “There is a strong relationship between our governments, as evidenced by the upcoming ‘Italy-UAE Business Forum’ in Rome, which will be attended by Prime Minister Meloni, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, and Emir Sultan III bin Muhammad al-Qasimi.” (9colonne)