African Marketplace 2026 Heads to Dubai to Attract Global Investors and Showcase Afro-Caribbean Excellence

African Marketplace is set to return in a bigger and more ambitious edition in 2026, with organisers confirming Dubai as the host city for its global trade and cultural expo scheduled for October 10 to 12 at the Conrad Hotel. The event is designed to deepen connections between African and Caribbean businesses and the global investment community.

Following what organisers described as a successful debut in 2025, the platform is positioning itself as a powerful gateway for export-ready brands, small and medium enterprises, innovators, and creatives looking to scale beyond local markets. This year’s edition is expected to attract buyers, investors, policymakers, distributors, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world.

According to the organisers, African Marketplace is more than just a trade exhibition—it is a pan-continental platform that blends commerce with culture. It showcases industries such as fashion, technology, furniture, art, music, cuisine, wellness, and intellectual innovation, all under one global stage.

The founder of the African Marketplace and the Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy, Ibukun Awosika, said the 2025 edition proved that African and Caribbean businesses are already globally competitive. He noted that the 2026 event will scale up significantly, with a stronger commercial focus and broader international participation.

Organisers added that the Dubai expo will serve as both a business gateway and cultural bridge, creating opportunities for investment, partnerships, and cross-cultural exchange. They emphasized that African Marketplace continues to position itself as a space where commerce, identity, innovation, and heritage converge into global opportunity.

source: punch