For the international confectionery and snacks industry, Dubai has become an increasingly important meeting point between manufacturers, brands, distributors and buyers across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
This November, ISM Middle East is scheduled to bring that community together once again at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
The event remains officially scheduled for 3–5 November, with registration open and organisers Koelnmesse GmbH actively promoting the 2026 edition. ISM Middle East describes the show as a major sourcing platform connecting confectionery, snacks, bakery and impulse-product suppliers with buyers across the region.
There is good reason for confidence in the event itself. The 2025 edition delivered a record international participation rate of 86%, according to organisers, attracting buyers and businesses including Carrefour, IKEA, Emirates Airline, GMG, Noon and Tim Hortons. Organiser figures subsequently reported 95% exhibitor ROI, 90% visitor satisfaction and an 85% business impact, with 80% indicating plans to return.
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Yet 2026 is clearly not a routine year for international business travel to the Gulf.
A Changing Regional Picture
The US–Iran conflict that began in February has brought an unprecedented degree of uncertainty to parts of the region, including periods of disruption to commercial aviation.
The UAE itself has experienced the effects of the conflict. Reuters reported in May that UAE air defences had engaged Iranian missiles and drones, while a separate incident that month caused a fire at the Barakah nuclear power plant, with no injuries reported.
Aviation has been one of the most visible consequences for international businesses. Earlier in the conflict, airspace closures left thousands of passengers stranded and prompted repatriation flights, while airlines again cancelled and subsequently began restoring some Middle East services following renewed hostilities in July.