Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) generated a record AED25.03 billion in economic output in 2025, its highest annual performance to date, driven by a calendar of 108 large-scale exhibitions, conventions and industry conferences.
The figures, drawn from DWTC's 2025 Economic Impact Assessment, reflect a 12% year-on-year increase in economic output. The events attracted nearly 2.18 million attendees and contributed AED14.66 billion in Gross Value Added to Dubai's GDP.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, said the record performance reflects the confidence that global industries, investors and innovators place in Dubai's infrastructure and business environment. He added that the results demonstrate the power of business events to catalyse investment flows and market expansion across diverse sectors.
Almost 947,000 attendees, representing 44% of the total, travelled from overseas. International visitors spent an average of over AED9,900 per event, nearly seven times more than local attendees, with an average stay of 5.6 days and 22 companions per 100 attendees, amplifying the economic benefit across tourism and hospitality.
The activity supported over 94,000 jobs across the MICE ecosystem, a 10% increase on the previous year, generating more than AED4.7 billion in disposable household income. Every dirham spent at a DWTC event produced AED5.5 in total citywide economic output.
Direct spending across adjacent sectors reached AED13.48 billion, with accommodation, travel and transport, retail, and food and beverage among the biggest beneficiaries.
Healthcare and Medical, Food and Beverage, and ICT collectively accounted for 55% of total GVA, generating over AED8.1 billion and drawing 59% of all international participants.
DWTC Director General Helal Saeed Almarri said ongoing capacity expansion at Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City will further strengthen Dubai's ability to host larger global events in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
