The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has commenced the first phase of the AED10 billion Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) expansion at Expo City Dubai, aiming to transform DEC into the region's largest indoor events venue.
Approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in September, the expansion will double Dubai’s annual large-scale events from around 300 to over 600 by 2033, further establishing Dubai as a premier hub for international exhibitions and business events.
Phase 1 of the project, now underway, includes significant foundation work, using 515 piles, 14,000 tonnes of structural steel, and 48,000 cubic meters of concrete. With 78,000 square meters of roofing, the expanded facility will cover an area comparable to 62 Olympic-sized pools. By 2026, DEC will feature 64,000 square meters of permanent exhibition halls, 30,000 square meters of temporary halls, and a visitor capacity of 50,000.
The DEC expansion aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, integrating Expo City Dubai’s 15-minute city concept, the Dubai South community, and Al Maktoum International Airport. New features will include extensive parking and marshalling yards, enhancing event turnover efficiency.
Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President of DWTC, called the expansion a
“transformative era for Dubai’s MICE sector.”
Amer Al Farsi, Acting VP of Real Estate Development at DWTC, highlighted the project's sustainable design, targeting LEED certification and embedding green practices throughout.
DWTC’s expanded venue is expected to triple its contribution to the MICE industry, targeting AED54 billion annually by 2033. With ongoing events running alongside construction, Dubai’s momentum as a leader in global events continues uninterrupted.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
