Dubai Exhibition Centre to undergo US$2.7 billion expansion

Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai will undergo a AED10 billion ($2.7 billion) expansion to double the number of large-scale events hosted annually in Dubai from 300 to over 600 by 2033.

The expansion is set to increase the MICE sector’s annual economic contribution to AED54 billion (US$14.7 billion) by 2033, in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 Project.

On completion, the DEC will become the largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibitions venue in the region and 1.5 times larger than current Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The DEC master plan outlines the venue’s expansion in three key phases to accommodate the increasing demand for large-scale venues.

In Phase 1, set for completion by 2026, the Dubai Exhibition Centre will feature 140,000 square metres of exhibition space, nearly two and a half times its current capacity of 58,000 square metres.

Phase 2, expected to be completed by 2028, will expand the total exhibition space to nearly 160,000 square metres, along with enhancements to supporting infrastructure, road networks, and dedicated multi-story parking.

The final phase, expected to be completed by 2031, will increase the total indoor exhibition space to 180,000 square metres, featuring 26 halls on a single contiguous level that spans 1.2 kilometres. This will accommodate one mega event or up to 20 simultaneous smaller events. The final phase will include a 300-plus key hotel, retail outlets, commercial offices, and an industrial kitchen for fully integrated operations.

Advising of the expansion, United Arab Emirates Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum 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

“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.

“The expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre has been strategically planned to align with the visionary goals of Expo City Dubai, the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, and the recently announced expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to become the world’s largest once fully operational.”

Image: Concept for the expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai.