Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City: The Future of Global Trade Shows

Dubai is paving the way for the next era of global exhibitions by transforming Dubai Expo City into a premier hub for trade shows. With major events set to transition from the Dubai World Trade Centre to the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City, the city's commitment to strengthening its status as a global business hub has never been more evident. Here’s everything we know so far about the ongoing development at the Dubai Exhibition Centre.

A Grand Expansion: AED 10 Billion to Revolutionize Event Hosting

The Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision of creating a sustainable, future-ready events district, drawing industry leaders, innovators, and global enterprises to a venue designed for excellence. 

Major trade shows to relocate to Expo City include some of the biggest names across technology, healthcare, construction, and finance, all moving into an expanded, state-of-the-art facility designed to accommodate the demands of the world's largest gatherings.

Dubai’s leadership, under His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has approved a AED 10 billion dirham expansion plan of DEC to solidify Expo City’s status as the largest event space in the region. The Dubai Exhibition Centre will undergo a three-phase transformation that will reshape the emirate’s events landscape:

• Phase 1 (By 2026) – The first phase will add 140,000 square meters of exhibition space, more than doubling the current capacity.
• Phase 2 (By 2028) – A further expansion of 160,000 square meters, coupled with significant infrastructure improvements, a new multi-level parking facility, and improved connectivity.
• Phase 3 (By 2031) – The completion of 26 exhibition halls spanning 1.2 kilometers, hosting up to 20 events simultaneously. This phase will introduce a 300+ key hotel, commercial spaces, and retail hubs, turning Expo City into a fully integrated business and lifestyle district.

By 2033, Dubai aims to double the number of annual exhibitions from 300 to 600, making it one of the world’s leading event destinations and boosting the economy by over AED 54 billion annually.

Why Dubai Expo City is the Future of Global Exhibitions

The shift of the major trade shows to Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) is more than just a change in venue—it’s a transformation of how international business will be conducted in the region. The new venue boasts cutting-edge technology, sustainable architecture, and world-class infrastructure designed to cater to large-scale trade events.

Key Advantages of Relocating to Expo City:

• Strategic Location: Close to Al Maktoum International Airport and seamlessly connected to key business districts.
• Global Connectivity – Hosting mega events means better public transport links, increased international exposure, and a more dynamic community, making it a sought-after destination for expats and professionals.
• Sustainability Focus: Although it is a mixed-use area, most commercial properties are LEED-certified, making them more sustainable and environmentally friendly
• Luxury Lifestyle & Hospitality: Upcoming hotels, retail hubs, and residential communities to support exhibitors and visitors alike.

Which Major Trade Shows are Relocating to the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City?

Several high-profile trade shows have already announced their move to Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City, including:

• GITEX (Technology) – One of the largest tech exhibitions globally, bringing together industry pioneers.
• Arab Health – The premier healthcare and medical industry event in the region.
• The Big Five (Construction) – The Middle East’s most significant construction and infrastructure event.
• Gulfood – A global leader in the food and beverage trade sector.
• Cityscape Global – A crucial real estate and property investment event.

These relocations will not only elevate the profile of trade show venues in Dubai, but they will also create a new global networking hub for businesses, startups, and investors.