Dubai is nearing completion of the $2.7bn (AED10bn) expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), marking a major milestone in the city’s global events strategy.
Phase 1 of the project — now in its final stages — will be ready to host two of the world’s most influential exhibitions, Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo (formerly Arab Health), from early 2026.
The expansion underscores the Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) commitment to strengthening the emirate’s position as a world-class hub for business, trade, and large-scale international events.
Dubai Exhibition Centre
Located at the heart of Expo City Dubai, the DEC expansion marks a major step in strengthening Dubai’s global events infrastructure.
Once fully complete, the centre will become the largest purpose-built indoor exhibitions and events venue in the region by 2031, capable of hosting up to 50,000 visitors per day.
Phase 1 of the expansion will deliver 140,000sq m of total event space, including 64,000sq mof new exhibition halls and 30,000 square metres of flexible pavilion space, integrated into the existing complex.
Temporary pavilions will add capacity for the 2026 mega events, connecting directly to the main halls and the central arrival plaza, supported by outdoor F&B terraces and activation zones to enhance the visitor experience.
Convenient pedestrian links connect the pavilions to Expo City’s Al Wasl and the Expo 2020 Metro Station.
Following the conclusion of the Q1 2026 events, the pavilion areas will transition back into construction for the next phase of expansion.
Large-scale events in Dubai
Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre, said: “The expansion of Dubai Exhibition Centre represents Dubai’s proven capability to deliver large-scale international events with precision, excellence, and impact.
“Readiness of the expanded venue, in record time, reflects the seamless collaboration between government entities and city partners, from infrastructure and mobility to safety and visitor experience. As we prepare to host our 2026 mega events, our shared focus remains on ensuring an exceptional experience for every exhibitor and visitor.”
Amer Al Farsi, Vice President of Real Estate Development at Dubai World Trade Centre, said: “The Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion stands as one of Dubai’s most advanced and efficiently executed infrastructure projects, combining intelligent design, scale, and sustainability.
“With Phase 1 nearing completion, every structural and operational milestone has been achieved through close coordination with our partners across the city. Our teams are now focused on final readiness, ensuring that the venue’s systems, facilities, and visitor infrastructure reflect DWTC’s uncompromising standards of quality and safety.
“This development reinforces Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most connected, secure, and future-ready destinations for major international events.”
Citywide readiness
To support the 2026 event season, a citywide mobility and readiness plan has been implemented to ensure smooth movement between DWTC and DEC during Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo (WHX).
In partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police, the plan integrates transport, mobility, and security measures that meet the highest international standards.
The Dubai Metro Red Line provides direct access via Expo 2020 Station, the largest in the city, with increased frequency and reduced train intervals to handle peak visitor volumes.
A dedicated express shuttle network of 30 buses will connect DWTC and DEC, supported by Park and Ride facilities at key stations including E&, Centrepoint, National Paints, and Al Kifaf.
Within Expo City Dubai, 80 continuous shuttle services will operate between parking zones and the venue to ensure efficient visitor movement.
Next-generation events at Expo City Dubai
Set within Expo City Dubai, the Dubai Exhibition Centre benefits from purpose-built infrastructure, including direct metro connectivity, extensive road access, and multi-zone parking.
The site features 5G-ready digital infrastructure, large outdoor plazas, and food and beverage facilities designed to deliver a “festival-style” experience during Dubai’s cooler months.
More than 50 food trucks, an autonomous smart mini market, and a series of mobile F&B innovations will serve international visitors at scale, while Expo City’s wider mix of cafes, casual dining concepts, and international restaurants will further enrich the visitor experience.
Construction milestones
Phase 1 construction has advanced at record pace, with key milestones including:
- Substantial completion of the building roof and façade
- Phased Power On achieved with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA)
- 75 per cent completion of building services, with system testing and commissioning under way
The project has involved more than 4,000 workers contributing over nine million man-hours to date. Structural highlights include 515 foundation piles, 14,000 tonnes of steel, and 48,000 cubic metres of reinforced concrete, complemented by 78,000 square metres of roof sheeting, new parking zones, and expanded marshalling yards to optimise event operations.
Dubai Exhibition Centre: Phase 1
| Category | Details |
| Total project value | AED10bn ($2.7bn) |
| New event space (Phase 1) | 140,000 sqm |
| Exhibition halls | 64,000 sqm |
| Pavilions | 30,000 sqm |
| Daily visitor capacity | Up to 50,000 |
| Completion target | Early 2026 |
| Future vision | Largest purpose-built indoor events venue in the region by 2031 |
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