Sheikh Mohammed approves Dhs10bn Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion plan

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the $2.72bn (Dhs10bn) expansion plan for the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai.

DEC will be the largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibitions venue in the Middle East region upon completion.

“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,” Sheikh Mohammed said in a social media post on X.

“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 expansion, which is part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, is integral to Expo City Dubai’s vision of becoming a dynamic economic hub driven by global exhibitions and events.

The DEC master plan has been divided into three key segments to handle demand, according to the Dubai Media Office.

The first phase will be completed by 2026 and will expand the DEC to nearly double its current capacity, taking it to 140,000 square metres of exhibition space.

The second phase, scheduled for completion by 2028, will further increase the total exhibition space to nearly 160,000 square meters. It includes upgrades to supporting infrastructure and road networks and the addition of multi-storey parking facilities.

The final phase is expected to be completed by 2031 and will increase the total indoor exhibition space to 180,000 square metres, with 26 halls covering 1.2km on one level. It will see the opening of more than 300 retail outlets, offices and an industrial kitchen to serve the area.

Upon completion, DEC will be 1.5 times larger than the existing Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, positioning it as the premier venue for mega exhibitions in the region. The expansion is expected to double the number of large-scale events hosted annually, increasing from 300 to more than 600 by 2033.

The next-gen destination will enrich Dubai’s global events calendar across a wide range of sectors, including technology, healthcare, food and beverages, financial services, energy, and real estate. It will also introduce new platforms aimed at boosting international participation in fast-evolving industries such as media and entertainment, mobility, education, tourism, and manufacturing.

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