Dubai has solidified its reputation as a premier global destination for business events, winning bids to host a record 437 international conferences, congresses, and corporate meetings in 2024.
This achievement, led by Dubai Business Events (DBE), marks a 20% year-on-year growth, reinforcing the city's stature as an innovation-driven hub for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
The secured events are projected to attract over 210,000 delegates, significantly boosting Dubai’s tourism, business, and knowledge-sharing ecosystems. High-profile wins include the 2025 WFNS World Congress of Neurosurgery, the 2026 Global Symposium on Health System Research, and the 2028 Scientific Assembly of the Committee on Space Research. Additionally, major corporate events such as the 2026 Forever Living Global Rally and the 2026 Herbalife China Incentive underline Dubai’s appeal to diverse industries.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, highlighted the role of visionary leadership in this success.
“The increase in successful bids reflects Dubai’s unmatched business events infrastructure, knowledge economy, and vibrant experiences for organizers and delegates alike,”
he said.
Dubai’s collaborative efforts with global industry bodies and initiatives like the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme further strengthened its competitive edge. The city’s participation in international trade shows, including IMEX Frankfurt and IBTM World, also expanded its global footprint.
Ranked as the top Middle Eastern city for association meetings by ICCA, Dubai continues to lead the region in hosting high-caliber events. Its alignment with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, positions it as a global leader in sustainable economic growth and a thriving knowledge hub.
News Source: Emirates News Agency