His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has approved an ambitious AED 10 billion expansion plan for the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai. Upon completion, the DEC is set to become the largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibitions venue in the region.
This expansion is a key component of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and aligns with Expo City Dubai’s vision of evolving into a vibrant economic hub fueled by global exhibitions and events. Sheikh Mohammed stated, “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.”
The expansion aims to enhance Dubai’s stature as a global leader in the events and exhibitions sector, offering platforms that connect people and ideas, boost tourism, and stimulate economic growth.
The DEC master plan will be executed in three phases:
- Phase 1: Expected completion by 2026, will add 140,000 square metres of exhibition space, nearly two and a half times its current size.
- Phase 2: By 2028, total exhibition space will reach around 160,000 square metres, with improved infrastructure and multi-storey parking.
- Phase 3: By 2031, the exhibition space will expand to 180,000 square metres, featuring 26 halls that can host one mega event or up to 20 simultaneous smaller events. This phase will also include a 300+ key hotel, retail outlets, commercial offices, and an industrial kitchen.
Once fully completed, the DEC will accommodate over 600 large-scale events annually, doubling its current capacity. This development reinforces Dubai’s position as a premier destination for international exhibitions and business events.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum emphasized Dubai’s evolution into a global hub of innovation and connectivity under Sheikh Mohammed’s leadership. The expansion of the DEC is strategically aligned with the broader goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aiming to enhance the economic contribution of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) sector to AED 54 billion annually by 2033.
The DEC master plan supports the creation of Dubai’s new urban centre, encompassing Expo City Dubai and Al Maktoum International Airport, positioning the emirate for sustainable growth and development in the global economy
