Cyprus showcases premium food heritage at Gulfood 2025
Once again, Cyprus will make a strong impression with its National Pavilion, featuring 25 distinguished companies. These exhibitors will present a diverse selection of premium Cypriot food products, reflecting the country's rich culinary heritage and commitment to excellence.
Visitors to the Cyprus Pavilion can indulge in a remarkable assortment of offerings, including the world-famous Halloumi cheese, organic dairy products, premium olive oils, fresh Cyprus potatoes, bulgur wheat, frozen bakery goods, gourmet popcorn, snacks, fruit juices, and a variety of confectionery and processed food items. These high-quality products embody Cyprus' dedication to authenticity, sustainability, and innovation in the food sector
The Cyprus Pavilion presents a unique opportunity for buyers, distributors, and industry professionals to engage with leading Cypriot producers and explore valuable business collaborations. Attendees can connect with exhibitors at the following locations during the exhibition:
Hall 2 (Dairy)
Shk Saeed Hall 1 (Assorted Products)
Za'abeel Hall 2 (Beverages)
With a deep-rooted tradition in agriculture and food production,
Cyprus continues to strengthen its global reputation for quality and
culinary excellence.
Join us on a delightful journey through the exquisite flavours of Cyprus @ Gulfood 2025. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to network with 25 companies and taste the best of Cyprus!
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Web Release
06-08-2025
- Web Release
Summit Trading drives growth of Japanese food culture in the UAE and beyond
For nearly fifty years, Summit Trading has been at the forefront of delivering authentic Japanese food to the UAE and the wider Middle East. The company now supplies approximately 70 per cent of all Japanese food distributed in the UAE, strengthening the country's position as a strategic gateway for Japanese ingredients and cuisine throughout the region. At the heart of this transformation is Mr. Shiro Ohkubo, a long-time UAE resident and the region's first Japanese Food Goodwill Ambassador. Under his leadership at Summit Trading, Japanese food and agricultural imports into the UAE have increased from 400 million yen to over 2.6 billion yen over the past decade. This growth reflects not only rising demand but also a deepening cultural appreciation for Japanese cuisine across various communities. 'The UAE is fast becoming a global centre for food logistics, and Summit Trading has worked to ensure the UAE is seen as the key entry point for Japanese food into the Middle East,' said Mr. Ohkubo. A legacy built on logistics and trust Established in the UAE over 47 years ago, Summit Trading imports around 80 per cent of its products from Japan, sourcing directly from food manufacturers, cooperatives, and wholesale distributors. With logistics hubs in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the company supplies more than 2,000 clients across the GCC, including national airlines, five-star hotels, high-end restaurants, embassies, celebrity chefs, and major supermarkets. Summit also distributes to over 10 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman. It was the first to bring halal-certified Japanese wagyu beef to Dubai in 2014, to Qatar in 2015, and to Saudi Arabia in 2023. The company introduced regular air freight services to deliver fresh Japanese seafood, a category previously limited to frozen options in the region. Promoting Japanese food and culture Summit Trading's impact goes beyond its supply chain. The company regularly participates in flagship food exhibitions such as Gulfood and the Saudi Food Show, offering logistical and promotional support to Japanese producers seeking to enter the region. Collaborations with local chefs and restaurants help showcase regional specialities, while fairs and tasting events introduce new audiences to the diversity of Japanese cuisine. In 2022, Mr. Ohkubo hosted a live-streamed Japanese cooking session in the UAE, with support from Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. He also launched a trilingual website featuring over 20 recipes in Japanese, English, and Arabic, many of which blend Japanese and Middle Eastern flavours. His contributions were most visible during Expo 2020 Dubai, where Summit Trading managed all food logistics for the Japan Pavilion restaurant, Sushiro. The operation encompassed over 500 product categories, resulting in Sushiro achieving its highest monthly sales among its 64 international branches in March 2022. E-Commerce and everyday access Recognising growing local interest in Japanese home dining, Summit launched Hinomaru Shokudo in Abu Dhabi. The restaurant, which expanded in June 2024, offers bento boxes, sushi, ramen, and a variety of Japanese dishes using authentic ingredients. To support home chefs, the company created the Summit WEB Store, an e-commerce platform with more than 2,000 products available for delivery. The platform includes a mobile app, online payment options, and the first Arabic-language Japanese food site in the region. Its customer base now includes a broad mix of UAE nationals, Westerners, Filipinos, Indians, and Arabs. Supporting the community and global events Summit Trading has supported major international events by supplying Japanese food products, including the FIFA World Cup 2022, the World Judo Championships, and the AFC Asian Cup 2024. It also played a key role in diplomatic events and national celebrations, including the Emperor's Birthday reception hosted by the Japanese Embassy and the official luncheon for Prime Minister Kishida's visit to the UAE in 2023. The company has actively collaborated with UAE institutions as well. In March 2024, under the ne'ma food security strategy, Mr. Ohkubo conducted a food waste awareness session for schoolchildren and held a cooking workshop using Japanese and Middle Eastern ingredients. 'Our mission has always been to go beyond just importing food. We are here to introduce the heart of Japanese culture through its cuisine, and to build lasting bridges between Japan and the Middle East through trust, quality, and shared experiences,' said Mr. Ohkubo. Awards and recognition For his contributions to cultural diplomacy and trade, Mr. Ohkubo received the UAE Golden Visa in 2023, recognising his status as a key contributor to the nation's business and cultural landscape. Summit Trading has also received multiple recognitions from JETRO for its efforts in e-commerce and food service, including being the first wholesaler and restaurant in the Middle East certified as 'Japanese Food Supporters.' With over 500 Japanese restaurants now operating in the UAE, compared to just 140 in 2013, Summit Trading's role in shaping this culinary transformation is clear. Through logistics, advocacy, and a passion for cultural exchange, the company continues to deepen the UAE's ties with Japan and redefine what it means to bring a culture to the table. Driving restaurant growth and culinary confidence Mr. Ohkubo has played a pivotal role in supporting the rapid growth of Japanese restaurants across the region. 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Through these initiatives, Summit Trading continues to shape not only the availability but the authenticity and appreciation of Japanese food in the region.
Hi Dubai
25-07-2025
- Hi Dubai
Surviving the Off-Season: How Seasonal Businesses in Dubai Can Stay Profitable Year-Round
Seasonal businesses play a vital role in Dubai's economy. Whether it's a desert safari operator thriving in winter or a beachside café buzzing during tourist months, these ventures drive both culture and commerce. However, sustaining such a business year-round can be daunting, especially during Dubai's scorching summer months, when footfall drops and operational costs remain. The good news is: Seasonality doesn't have to mean instability. With thoughtful planning, creative marketing, and strategic use of downtime, businesses can weather the off-season and even use it to grow stronger. In this article, we explore how to sustain a seasonal business in Dubai by identifying the challenges, offering real-world strategies, and highlighting examples of local businesses that have turned seasonal constraints into long-term opportunities. Understanding Seasonality in Dubai's Business Landscape Dubai's business ecosystem is deeply affected by seasonal patterns, particularly tied to weather, tourism, and cultural calendars. Peak season generally spans November to March, when the weather is pleasant, global tourists flock in, and major events like Art Dubai, Gulfood, and Dubai Shopping Festival take place. The off-season, meanwhile, typically runs from May through September, when high temperatures (often above 45°C) and school breaks lead to reduced outdoor activity. Industries most affected include: Tourism and desert activities (e.g., safaris, dune bashing, open-air tours) (e.g., safaris, dune bashing, open-air tours) Outdoor cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs Event planning and entertainment services Seasonal markets and pop-up retail vendors The economic slowdown during summer can be significant. For example, many open-air eateries report up to 60% reduction in footfall during the hottest months. Similarly, experiential travel operators may pause or downscale completely, resulting in financial strain and talent loss. Understanding these patterns helps seasonal businesses prepare—not just to survive, but to adapt and capitalize on the opportunities the off-season can bring. Operational Strategies for Year-Round Sustainability To navigate seasonality effectively, businesses need to build flexibility into their operations. Here are a few strategies that can make a tangible difference: Embrace Flexible Staffing Models Hiring part-time or contract workers during peak months allows businesses to manage labor costs during slower periods. Retaining a core team year-round ensures consistency while giving you the freedom to scale as needed. Inventory and Utility Planning Track sales patterns and avoid over-ordering before the off-season. Reduce your utility costs by optimizing AC use, lighting, and operational hours. Some businesses even negotiate temporary pauses in service contracts during slow months. Diversify Revenue Streams Introduce products or services that work year-round. A winter-based outdoor fitness brand could offer online coaching during summer. An event company might provide corporate training packages or team-building kits for indoor settings. Use Off-Season for Maintenance and Upgrades When footfall is low, it's the perfect time to renovate, revamp menus, retrain staff, or experiment with new service models. This proactive use of downtime often leads to stronger performance in the next high season. Introduce Subscription or Prepayment Models Offer your most loyal customers off-season discounts in exchange for prepaid seasonal passes or vouchers. This creates a steady cash flow and encourages long-term engagement. When your operations are structured for adaptability, your business becomes more resilient, even when the crowd thins out. Marketing Tactics to Stay Visible During the Slow Months Staying at the top of mind during the off-season is essential for long-term survival. Smart marketing ensures your business remains part of the conversation, even when footfall dips. Here's how: Develop Off-Season Offers and Loyalty Rewards Create compelling promotions targeted at locals and repeat customers. A desert safari company could launch a summer-themed indoor photo experience with discounts for returning guests. Restaurants could introduce off-season loyalty cards that unlock free meals or discounts when business is slower. Focus on Local Residents While tourists may decline during summer, residents remain, and they seek value and variety. Tailor your messaging to locals with UAE-centric offers like 'Summer Specials' or discounted group packages for schools, corporates, and communities. Use Digital Channels Consistently Continue posting on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Google Business even in the off-season. 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Well-trained and motivated staff are more likely to deliver high-quality service when the business gets busy again. Refresh Your Brand or Offerings Is your visual branding still relevant? Could your service menu use an update? Use the downtime to refresh your website, rebrand your collateral, or test out new product lines. Build Relationships and Plan Collaborations This is a good time to reach out to potential partners, sponsors, or collaborators for the next high season. Joint planning can lead to more successful and cost-effective campaigns. Prepare for Peak with Intentional Planning Refine your logistics, supply chain, or tech stack to ensure smooth operations when the demand returns. Pre-book inventory or finalize vendor agreements to lock in better rates. Using the off-season to sharpen your edge gives your business the best chance to succeed when the peak period returns. Sustaining a seasonal business in Dubai requires a shift in mindset. Instead of viewing the off-season as downtime, smart businesses treat it as a launchpad for improvement. From optimizing internal systems and exploring new revenue models to deepening customer loyalty, the off-season holds untapped potential. Dubai's climate may create distinct business cycles, but with proactive planning and creative engagement, your business can achieve consistency and resilience all year long. Seasonality doesn't have to be a weakness—it can be your greatest strategic advantage. Also Read: Why Hype Marketing Doesn't Always Work for Dubai Businesses Dubai's brands are chasing hype, but real success lies in trust, quality, and long-term growth—not fleeting viral moments. Cash Flow is King: Why Sales Don't Equal Solvency for New Businesses in Dubai Learn why cash flow is vital for new businesses in Dubai, even with high sales. Discover key strategies to manage cash, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure long-term solvency. UAE Investors Turn to Lifestyle Assets as Hospitality and Leisure Deliver Faster Returns Agon Capital boosts lifestyle asset focus to 60%, citing faster ROI, strong demand, and plans for regional and global expansion. Dubai Launches Major Initiative to Promote Volunteerism Across All Communities Dubai's CDA launches a new initiative to mainstream volunteerism, engaging over 59,000 registered volunteers and introducing inclusive programs like senior and people of determination-led teams.
Campaign ME
15-07-2025
- Campaign ME
MAIA launches MAIA Studio to strengthen creative offering
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