🇰🇪 Kenyan Coffee Goes Global: Kenya Coffee School Set to Shine at World of Coffee Dubai 2026 and Cement Diplomatic Ties in the UAE
DUBAI/ABU DHABI—The Kenya Coffee School (KCS), a leading institution dedicated to cultivating global-standard coffee professionals and promoting the country’s specialty beans, is set to undertake a significant mission to the United Arab Emirates in January 2026. This trip underscores Kenya’s commitment to positioning itself not merely as a producer of raw coffee, but as a global leader in coffee education, innovation, and value-addition.
The mission is strategically divided into two key components: showcasing Kenyan talent and produce at an international trade show, followed by a high-level diplomatic engagement.
☕ The Global Stage: World of Coffee Dubai (Jan 18–20, 2026)
The primary focus of the trip will be the World of Coffee Dubai 2026, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from January 18th to 20th. Now a central hub for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) specialty coffee market, the event offers a crucial platform for KCS to:
- Showcase World-Class Talent: KCS, known for its rigorous training programs that blend practical barista skills, specialty coffee knowledge, and a strong emphasis on sustainability, will be presenting its internationally certified alumni. These graduates are ambassadors of Kenyan coffee excellence, ready for global careers.
- Promote Value Addition: By highlighting their expertise in areas like roasting, sensory skills, and advanced brewing, KCS will champion the narrative of Kenyan-processed coffee, encouraging international buyers to invest in the full value chain rather than just green beans.
- Forge Global Partnerships: The event serves as a critical networking opportunity to connect with international roasters, distributors, and hospitality investors, seeking collaborations that will create further job pathways for KCS graduates globally.
This presence at World of Coffee Dubai is vital to ensuring that Kenya maintains a prominent and influential role in the evolving specialty coffee landscape.
🤝 Cementing Diplomatic and Economic Ties in Abu Dhabi
Following the trade show, the Kenya Coffee School delegation will travel to Abu Dhabi for a planned visit to the Kenyan Embassy in the UAE.
This diplomatic engagement is a powerful statement of support for the coffee sector. The visit aims to: - Strengthen Government Endorsement: Formalize the connection between the coffee education sector and national economic diplomacy, highlighting coffee as a key national export and talent stream.
- Explore Market Access: Discuss strategies with Embassy officials to enhance the export and distribution of Kenyan specialty coffee within the UAE and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region—a high-value, rapidly growing market.
- Support Diaspora Professionals: Rally support for Kenyan baristas, roasters, and coffee entrepreneurs already working in the UAE, who act as vital links and promoters of Kenyan coffee culture.
A Mission for the Next Generation
The Kenya Coffee School’s journey is more than a trade mission; it is a movement. Through initiatives like their Barista Mtaani program, KCS aims to democratize coffee education, equipping young Kenyans with the skills needed to thrive on a global stage.
By participating in the World of Coffee and engaging with the Embassy, KCS is reinforcing its brand promise: to deliver transformative coffee education that leads to real livelihoods, global opportunities, and community impact, ensuring that Kenyan coffee excellence is recognized, valued, and sustained across the world.
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- Dates: Sunday, January 18 to Tuesday, January 20, 2026
- Location: Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Za’abeel Halls 1, 4, 5, & 6, Dubai, UAE
- Details: This is the Middle East’s leading specialty coffee trade show, offering a platform to showcase products, network with international buyers, and engage with the global coffee community.
🇰🇪 Kenya Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE
The embassy visit will take place in Abu Dhabi, following the Dubai event. - Location: Vill No.12, 26Th St, Opp. Khalifa Award For Education, Al Rowdah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
- Typical Office Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (It is highly recommended to confirm an appointment or the visit time directly with the Embassy before proceeding, as hours can vary and appointments are often required for official visits).
- Contact:
- Phone: +971 2 666 6300
- Email: abu_dhabi@mfa.go.ke or kenyarep@emirates.net.ae