Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has begun the first phase of construction to expand the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai, following the completion of enabling works and piling contracts.
The AED10 billion ($2.7 billion approximately) expansion plan, approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai in September, will establish DEC as the region’s largest indoor events venue.
The project aims to increase Dubai’s capacity to host large-scale events from 300 to 600 annually by 2033.
New Dubai Exhibition Centre to contribute to MICE industry’s AED54 billion by 2033 target
The development aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, connecting Expo City Dubai, Dubai South community, and Al Maktoum International Airport.
The initial phase involves 515 piles, 14,000 tonnes of structural steel – equivalent to two Eiffel Towers – and 48,000 cubic metres of reinforced concrete. The roof will span 78,000 square metres.
Internationally renowned consultants inclusive of Mace and Egis will manage the first phase.
Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at Dubai World Trade Centre said: “The Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion marks a transformative era for Dubai’s MICE sector, solidifying our city’s standing as a global powerhouse for mega events. The expanded venue will enable us to double the number of events from 300 to 600 by 2033, setting new international benchmarks for exhibitions and conferences.
“With this state-of-the-art facility, we are building a next-generation venue to meet the evolving demands of the global events industry, reinforcing Dubai’s leadership as the destination of choice for world-class mega events and exhibitions.”
The first phase will add 64,000 square metres of permanent exhibition halls and 30,000 square metres of temporary halls to the existing 46,000 square metres, bringing the total capacity to 140,000 square metres by 2026. The venue will accommodate 50,000 visitors daily.
Amer Al Farsi, Acting Vice President of Real Estate Development at Dubai World Trade Centre added: “The DEC expansion is a pivotal step towards the future of Dubai’s flagship mega exhibitions and events. The first phase alone will increase our purpose-built indoor event hosting capacity to 140,000 square metres.
“The venue is designed to elevate both the exhibitor and visitor experience while embedding sustainability into every aspect of its design and operations. Beyond its physical footprint, this development serves as a catalyst to redefine the global events industry, with Dubai leading the way.”
The project includes LEED certification from the US Green Building Council. Construction continues alongside current events at the existing DEC facility.
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