The 2018 Dubai International Coffee & Tea Festival (DICTF), kicked off yesterday at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Set to run until December 7, 2018 in Hall 4, the show is host to the exciting Dubai International Coffee Championships, the world’s richest coffee championship offering a prize pot of over $60,000.
The championships will test the skills of all contenders in practical aspects of coffee making, including espresso, latte art, brewing skills, and food pairing. The championship allows for UAE based baristas to work off the same stage as more experienced international competitors with the introduction of two distinct national and international categories.
The winner of the International Competitor category will take home $40,000, while the International runner-up will win a cash reward of $5,000. The winner of the national competitor category, on the other hand, will take away $15,000, with the National runner-up bagging $5,000.
Apart from the championships, the 2018 edition of DICTF is packed with other activities showcasing the many facets of the coffee and tea industry.
Anselm Godinho, managing director of International Conferences and Exhibitions, DICTF’s organiser, said: “The 2018 DICTF is opening against the backdrop of a bourgeoning coffee and tea industry in the local market. DICTF will provide individuals and businesses alike with a platform to capitalise on the thriving opportunities in the industry today via a host of learning, networking, and training activities. The championship is a much-awaited event and we are confident that it will not disappoint as big cash prizes are at stake this year. Highly skilled contestants will also take part in the newest edition, making the Championships even more exciting and thrilling.”
“During the event, we expect to see partners and clients collaborating to establish new business channels and discuss their upcoming projects and initiatives. The event will also be the time to explore fresh venues for expansion and growth. We are overwhelmed by the huge turnout on the first day and are confident that more will come in the coming days to check out the products, services, and technological advancements in the production, storage, and distribution of coffee and tea,” he added.
Seeking to set new benchmarks and raise consumer awareness and engagement, DICTF is featuring coffee, tea, bar and café products, equipment, and services. It is the only dedicated event in the Middle East that gives operators access to a wide range of suppliers, products, ideas, and certified training programs, including the Certified Specialty Coffee Skills Program and SCA Foundations and Intermediate Level Training Workshops.