Gulfood 2025, taking place in Dubai from 18th-21st February, prominently features Sri Lanka’s diverse culinary heritage. 

Sri Lankan food producers, supported by the Export Development Board and the Sri Lankan Consul General in Dubai, will showcase a wide range of traditional and modern dishes and products. 

Visitors can expect to sample iconic dishes like Kottu Roti and Hoppers, alongside premium teas and coconut products from well-known brands.

The event aims to boost Sri Lankan trade and introduce international audiences to the island’s rich gastronomic traditions.

Gulfood 2025 Dubai is set to be an extraordinary event, and the excitement is palpable as we gear up for this grand showcase of culinary excellence. From February 18th to 21st, the Dubai World Trade Centre will be transformed into a bustling hub of flavours, aromas, and gastronomic delights, with Sri Lanka taking centre stage to present its rich and diverse culinary heritage.

Sri Lanka, is renowned for its vibrant, varied and flavourful cuisine. At Gulfood 2025, visitors will have the unique opportunity to explore and savour a wide array of Sri Lankan foods that promise to tantalize the taste buds and leave a lasting impression.

The event is proudly supported by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the Sri Lankan Consul General and his dedicated team, ensuring that Sri Lanka’s participation is nothing short of spectacular. Staff are on hand to explain the opportunities to enjoy the delights of Sri Lankan foods.

One of the highlights of Sri Lanka’s presence at Gulfood 2025 will be the exciting lineup of traditional and contemporary dishes that showcase the island’s culinary prowess. From aromatic curries to delectable sweets, Sri Lankan cuisine is a harmonious blend of spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients that create a symphony of flavours. Visitors can look forward to sampling dishes such as:

1. Kottu Roti: A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and a choice of meat or seafood. The rhythmic clanging of metal blades on the hot griddle as the kottu is prepared is a sensory experience in itself.
2. Hoppers (Appa): These bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk are a breakfast favourite. They can be enjoyed plain or with an egg in the center, and are often served with a variety of accompaniments such as pol sambol and curries.
3. Lamprais: A Dutch-influenced dish that consists of rice cooked in stock, accompanied by a variety of curries, frikkadels (meatballs), and blachan (shrimp paste), all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked to perfection.
4. Pol Sambol: A spicy coconut relish made with grated coconut, red chili powder, lime juice, and onions. It is a versatile condiment that pairs well with rice, bread, and even hoppers.
5. Watalappam: A rich and creamy dessert made from coconut milk, jaggery (palm sugar), eggs, and a blend of spices such as cardamom and nutmeg. This traditional sweet treat is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

In addition to these mouthwatering dishes, Sri Lanka will also showcase a variety of unique and innovative food products that highlight the island’s agricultural bounty and culinary creativity. Some of the companies and products that will be on display include:

1. Wayamba DC & Oil Mills (Pvt) Ltd: Known for their high-quality desiccated coconut and coconut oil products, Wayamba DC & Oil Mills will be presenting their range of coconut-based products that are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.
2. Kelani Valley Plantations PLC: This company will be showcasing their premium tea products, including a variety of flavored and specialty teas that capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s lush tea plantations.
3. Savoria Group: With a focus on bakery and confectionery products, Savoria Group will be offering a delectable selection of baked goods, cakes, and desserts that are sure to satisfy any sweet cravings.
4. Ceylon Biscuits Limited: Renowned for their iconic Munchee brand, Ceylon Biscuits Limited will be presenting an array of biscuits, cookies, and snacks that have been a staple in Sri Lankan households for decades.
5. Dilmah Tea: A globally recognized brand, Dilmah Tea will be showcasing their range of single-origin Ceylon teas, including their innovative tea blends and infusions that cater to modern tastes while staying true to traditional tea-making methods.

The participation of these esteemed companies is made possible through the unwavering support of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the Sri Lankan Consul General and his team. Their efforts in promoting Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage and facilitating the participation of Sri Lankan businesses at Gulfood 2025 are commendable. The EDB has been instrumental in organizing Sri Lanka’s presence at the event, ensuring that the country’s rich culinary traditions are showcased to a global audience.

Moreover, the event is being actively promoted by “Sri Lanka Connector” and “Palm Sail International,” two organizations dedicated to fostering international trade and cultural exchange. Their collaboration in promoting Gulfood 2025 and the participants from Sri Lanka underscores the importance of this event in strengthening trade relations and showcasing the best of Sri Lankan cuisine to the world.

Gulfood 2025 promises to be a celebration of culinary diversity, and Sri Lanka’s participation is set to be a highlight of the event. Visitors can expect to be captivated by the vibrant flavours, aromatic spices, and innovative food products that Sri Lanka has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about exploring new cuisines, the Sri Lankan pavilion at Gulfood 2025 is a must-visit destination.

As the countdown to Gulfood 2025 begins, the anticipation is building, and the excitement is palpable. The event provides a global platform for Sri Lankan businesses to showcase their products but also offer a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich culinary traditions of Sri Lanka.

From traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations to modern innovations that push the boundaries of flavour, Sri Lanka’s presence at Gulfood 2025 is sure to leave a lasting impression.

So mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other. Gulfood 2025 is set to be an unforgettable experience, and Sri Lanka’s participation will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of this prestigious event.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the vibrant and diverse world of Sri Lankan cuisine and discover the flavours that make this tropical island paradise a true culinary gem.