The masterplan for the expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai at an investment of AED10bn ($2.72bn) was signed off in September 2024.
Part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the expansion is integral to Expo City Dubai’s vision of becoming a key economic hub, driven by global exhibitions and events.
The DEC will become the largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibition venue in the region.
It’s expansion offers further opportunities for property investors in the surrounding area, as well as further afield due to its excellent location.
The masterplan outlines the venue’s expansion in three key phases to accommodate the increasing demand for large-scale venues.
In Phase 1, set for completion by 2026, the Dubai Exhibition Centre will feature 140,000 sqm of exhibition space, nearly two and a half times its current capacity of 58,000 sqm.
Phase 2, expected to be completed by 2028, will expand the total exhibition space to nearly 160,000 sqm.
The final phase, expected to be completed by 2031, will increase the total indoor exhibition space to 180,000 sqm, featuring 26 halls on a single contiguous level that spans 1.2 km.
This will accommodate one mega event or up to 20 simultaneous smaller events.
Additionally, the final phase will include a 300+ key hotel, retail outlets, commercial offices, and an industrial kitchen for fully integrated operations.
“This iconic venue will not only become the largest indoor exhibition and events destination in the region but also set new global standards for excellence in the industry.
“We are committed to consolidating Dubai’s status as a global leader in the events and exhibitions sector and the top destination for mega events.”
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai
Once all phases of expansion are complete, the DEC will be 1.5 times larger than the current Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC).
This expansion will enable Dubai to double the number of large-scale events hosted annually, increasing from approximately 300 today to over 600 by 2033.
“Our events provide platforms for connecting people, ideas, and opportunities from across the globe. They provide the impetus for economic growth, boost tourism, and contribute significantly to advancing our national projects, strengthening Dubai’s growing role as a global economic hub.”
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai
The DEC masterplan supports the establishment of Dubai’s new urban centre, encompassing Expo City Dubai, the UAE’s first 15-minute city; the broader Dubai South community; and Al Maktoum International Airport
“The expansion of the DEC has been strategically planned to align with the visionary goals of Expo City Dubai, the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, and the recently announced expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to become the world’s largest once fully operational.
“The synchronised development of this unique urban hub, along with its thriving communities, showcases Dubai’s forward-thinking approach in establishing a blueprint for a future city that meets the highest global standards.”
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of the Board of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTCA)
The next-generation destination will enhance Dubai’s calendar of global events across various sectors, including real estate, technology, healthcare, food & beverages, financial services and energy.
It will also introduce platforms to drive greater global participation in rapidly evolving fields such as media and entertainment, mobility, education, tourism and manufacturing.
