These 5 sectors dominated Dubai trade events in 2023

Almost 2.5 million participants attended events at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in 2023, marking a 25 per cent jump compared to 2022.

This is according to the latest figures released by the DWTC on Thursday, in which it detailed how it hosted 301 exhibitions and events in 2023.

And in terms of its top-performing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sectors, DWTC has said these five industries attracted the highest number of visitors.

• The Healthcare, Medical, and Scientific sector was the biggest with 24 events that attracted 275,000 attendees, representing one fifth of all exhibitions and conventions held at the venue. The number of events in this sector grew from 18 in 2022, with total participation increasing by 29 per cent. Key events included the likes of AEEDC and Arab Health.
• The Information Technology sector was ranked second, attracting 260,000 attendees last year. GITEX Global and its associated events dominated, with participation up by 41 per cent year-on-year.
• Food, Hotel, and Catering followed, attracting 226,000 attendees. Gulfood and Gulfood Manufacturing led the way while this sector experienced a 42 per cent increase in participation compared to the previous year.
• The Consumer Goods sector attracted 96,000 attendees.
• Building, Construction and Facility Management had 93,000 attendees. China Home Life and The Big 5 emerged as the leading events.

Other highlights listed by DWTC included the fact that exhibitions attracted nearly 54,000 companies, with 78 per cent being international.

Helal Saeed Almarri, who is the director general of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority further commented on these latest figures

“DWTC is steadfast in its commitment to advancing Dubai’s economic objectives and the D33 agenda, ensuring the emirate remains a forward-looking hub for emerging industries and technologies,” said Almarri.

“The notable increase in international participation underscores the global recognition of Dubai’s significance. Looking at 2024, we’re committed to building on these successes, driving forward our mission to position Dubai as a hub for pioneering ideas and transformative initiatives,” he said.