Sheikh Mohammed approves Dh10-billion expansion plan of Expo City exhibition centre

The annual impact of this economic hub is expected to reach about Dh18 billion to Dh54 billion by 2033

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Published: Mon 23 Sep 2024, 2:33 PM

Last updated: Wed 25 Sep 2024, 9:31 AM

The master plan for the expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City has been approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.

According to the plan, the Dh10-billion expansion will increase the exhibition space from 58,000 sqm to 180,000 sqm. The number of annual events will also increase from 300 to 600. The annual impact of this economic hub is expected to reach about Dh18 billion to Dh54 billion by 2033.

After completion, the DEC will become the largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibitions venue in the region. Part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the expansion is integral to Expo City Dubai's vision of becoming a dynamic economic hub, driven by global exhibitions and events.

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Master plan

The DEC master plan 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 square metres of exhibition space, nearly two and a half times its current capacity of 58,000 square metres.

Phase 2, expected to be completed by 2028, will expand the total exhibition space to nearly 160,000 square metres, along with enhancements to supporting infrastructure, road networks, and dedicated multi-storey parking.

The final phase, expected to be completed by 2031, will increase the total indoor exhibition space to 180,000 square metres, featuring 26 halls on a single contiguous level that spans 1.2 kilometres. This will accommodate one mega event or up to 20 simultaneous smaller events. The final phase will include a 300+ key hotel, retail outlets, commercial offices, and an industrial kitchen for fully integrated operations.

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Sheikh Mohammed said, "We have approved the master plan for the expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai, with an investment of Dh10 billion. 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."

He added, "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."

The next-generation destination will enhance Dubai's calendar of global events across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, food and beverages, financial services, energy, and real estate. It will also introduce platforms to drive greater global participation in rapidly evolving fields such as media and entertainment, mobility, education, tourism, and manufacturing.

Furthermore, the DEC master plan 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.

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