The world’s foremost beauty exhibition, Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna, will open its doors from 26–29 March 2026, returning for its 57th edition with renewed focus on the dynamic growth of the Middle East’s beauty industry. As regional participation reaches record levels, the event underscores the GCC’s expanding influence within global beauty and wellness markets.
According to Euromonitor International, Lebanon currently leads global beauty market growth, with sales rising 15.1% between 2024 and 2025, and continued growth projected at 12.2% annually through 2029. Saudi Arabia also features among the world’s top ten fastest-growing markets, recording a 6.9% increase year-on-year and a forecast 8.3% compound annual growth rate over the next five years.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has emerged as a major international hub, with USD 5.2 billion in cosmetics imports in 2024, ranking second worldwide for annual household spending on beauty and personal care at USD 1,318 per capita. Together with Qatar, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, the UAE’s growing appetite for luxury and innovation reflects a region that is redefining beauty consumption at a global scale.
With the MENA region now among the world’s fastest-growing beauty markets, Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna 2026 will serve as a strategic meeting point for brands, buyers, and visionaries eager to explore new frontiers in global beauty.
“Cosmoprof is not only a global meeting point; it is the stage where the world’s most dynamic markets come together,” says Antonio Bruzzone, CEO of BolognaFiere. “The Middle East is driving some of the most exciting growth in beauty today, and we look forward to welcoming GCC partners in 2026. Their presence will not only showcase the vitality of this region but also open new pathways for international collaboration and innovation.”
The 2025 edition closed with 3,128 exhibitors from 65 countries and 255,251 professionals from 150 countries, with participation from the Middle East continuing to grow year-on-year. Building on this momentum, the 2026 edition will spotlight:
- Cosmopack (26–28 March 2026): Showcasing the entire cosmetics supply chain, from raw ingredients and fragrance to machinery and packaging.
- Cosmo Perfumery & Cosmetics (26–28 March 2026): Fragrance, skincare, and clean beauty, with strong representation from GCC distributors and SMEs.
- Cosmo Hair, Nail & Beauty Salon (26–29 March 2026): Professional haircare, nail, salon, and spa innovations, tailored to the Gulf’s booming salon and hospitality sector.
Globally, the cosmetics industry continues to expand, with EUROMONITOR forecasting revenues of USD 610.4 billion in 2025 (+2.9% vs 2024). While the United States, China, and Brazil remain the largest markets, the MENA region’s growth trajectory, import volumes, and household spending confirm it as one of the most dynamic frontiers for global beauty investment.
As Cosmoprof approaches its 60th anniversary in 2027, the 2026 edition reinforces its role as a gateway for GCC and Levant brands to access new markets, and for international players to connect with one of the most lucrative and fast-evolving regions in the world.
For more information, visit:www.cosmoprof.com
