January has seen Queensland businesses build strong international ties at the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, while preparations are well underway for Gulfood 2026 and WHX in Dubai, UAE. These platforms offer unmatched opportunities for Queensland companies to showcase their expertise, forge vital connections and explore emerging markets in the region.
Future Minerals Forum: Partnerships driving progress
Held from 13–15 January 2026, the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh showcased Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 framework, positioning mining as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s economic transformation. Queensland businesses leveraged this opportunity to form strategic partnerships, demonstrating the global appeal of their products and expertise.Vital Chemicals, a leader in erosion and sediment control solutions, announced a milestone partnership with Gulf Elite Chemicals, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading soil stabilisation and dust control companies. This collaboration combines Vital Chemicals’ innovative solutions with Gulf Elite’s local expertise, delivering impactful outcomes across the Middle East’s construction and landscaping sectors. It underscores the growing demand for Queensland’s high-quality products in global markets.
The University of Queensland’s Sustainable Minerals Institute signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources. Focused on mining skills development and academic pathways, this collaboration aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s strategic goals and highlights a shared commitment to fostering world-class expertise within the sector.
Tough Gear Trading, a Queensland-based supplier of premium 4x4 accessories, announced a long-term partnership with Arminsol Trading. This agreement will see Tough Gear provide high-performance 4x4 accessories products for Saudi Arabia’s mining sector, showcasing their capability to equip vehicles such as the Toyota HiLux for demanding mining environments.
They joined fellow Queensland businesses, Dy-Mark Global and Transcale. Another attendee, PX4 Software, recently opened an office in Saudi Arabia to build on their pilot projects with the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources and expand their work with the Kingdom’s mining companies.
Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) supported these participants in Riyadh and identified further opportunities for the Queensland METS sector.
Gulfood 2026: Queensland’s food and beverage excellence on show
Gulfood 2026 – one of the world’s largest food and beverage showcases – will take place from 26–30 January in Dubai. It promises to be a landmark event, with over 8,500 exhibitors from 195 countries across two mega venues.
More than 30 Queensland businesses will present their products across the Austrade, Avocados Australia, and Meat and Livestock Australia pavilions, alongside independent exhibitors and attendees. From premium produce to cutting-edge innovations, Queensland’s offerings will be on full display. Queensland businesses are producing high-quality, sustainable products that meet the Gulf’s growing demand for safe and nutritious food and beverages.
The Australia–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has eliminated tariffs on 99% of Australian exports, unlocking opportunities for Queensland beef, seafood, premium fruits and wellness products.
TIQ will provide comprehensive support to participating businesses, helping them navigate the event and maximise opportunities for growth. With a focus on innovation such as AI-driven food tech and next-generation systems, Gulfood 2026 is the ideal platform for Queensland businesses to demonstrate their expertise and expand their reach.
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World Health Expo: Advancing healthcare innovation with Queensland expertise
The World Health Expo in Dubai from 9-12 February 2026 will highlight the Middle East’s strong commitment to transforming healthcare through digital innovation, research partnerships and advanced clinical solutions.
Queensland companies such as Aptium AI, Partum Panties and Regrow are set to showcase their capabilities to contribute to these transformative goals with their cutting-edge healthcare solutions.
Unlocking growth in the Middle East
The Middle East region continues to emerge as a prime market for Queensland businesses. Strategic national agendas across the Gulf are driving demand for international partnerships, while the region’s evolving industries – including e-commerce and supply chain solutions – present new avenues for growth.
Trade and Investment Commissioner for the Middle East, Kassem Younes, said the upcoming trade shows underscored the importance of building relationships in the region.
“The Middle East is a competitive and fast evolving market. Queensland companies must present a compelling value proposition and prioritise partnership driven engagement over transactional trading,” he said.
“Frequent visits and close collaboration with local partners are key to unlocking the vast potential of this dynamic market.
“Exporters are encouraged to diversify their markets by visiting the region and following up regularly.”
Interested in growing your business in the Middle East? Learn more about your future export success through TIQ.
Whether you are an experienced exporter looking to expand your global footprint into the Middle East, or you are a new exporter starting your journey, TIQ can help you scale your business internationally.
About Trade and Investment Queensland
If your business is ready to unlock global markets, you can learn more about your future export success through TIQ.
Whether you are an experienced exporter looking to expand your global footprint or a new exporter starting your journey, TIQ can help you scale your business internationally.