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Dubai is set to solidify its position as a global events hub with the ambitious expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC). The project, valued at Dh10 billion ($2.7 billion), marks a significant leap forward for the emirate’s exhibitions and events sector.

A New Era for Dubai’s Event Industry

The Dubai World Trade Centre has appointed UK construction firm Mace to oversee Phase 1 of this monumental project. This initial stage, slated for completion by 2026, will significantly boost the DEC’s exhibition space from its current 58,000 square metres to an impressive 140,000 square metres—a 2.5-fold increase.

This expansion is not just about size; it’s about creating a world-class venue that will attract more international events and conferences to Dubai. The project aligns perfectly with Dubai’s vision to become a leading global business and tourism destination.

The Grand Vision

The expansion plan is divided into three phases, with the final stage set to conclude in 2031. Upon completion, the DEC will emerge as the largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibitions venue in the region. This transformation will establish Dubai as the new epicentre for mega exhibitions in the UAE and beyond.

The fully expanded DEC will boast:

• 180,000 square metres of exhibition space
• 26 state-of-the-art halls
• A sprawling 1.2-kilometre span

These features will enable Dubai to host an unprecedented number of large-scale events annually, potentially doubling from around 300 to more than 600 by 2033.

Economic Impact and Growth Prospects

Amer Al Farsi, Assistant Vice-President of Real Estate at Dubai World Trade Centre, highlighted the economic significance of this project:

“We are committed to further developing Dubai’s Exhibitions and Events industry, with the aim of tripling its annual economic contribution to Dh54 billion by 2033.”

This ambitious goal underscores the strategic importance of the DEC expansion in Dubai’s economic landscape. By creating a next-generation home for mega exhibitions, Dubai is positioning itself to attract more international business and investment.

Mace: A Trusted Partner

Mace’s appointment for Phase 1 of the expansion builds upon their successful track record in Dubai. The firm previously completed the original Dubai Exhibition Centre (formerly COEX) in 2020 for Expo 2020 Dubai.

Stephen Venney, UAE Country Director at Mace Consult, expressed enthusiasm about the project:

“We have been delivering iconic projects and programmes in Dubai and the UAE for more than 25 years. This appointment allows us to continue our legacy of creating exceptional spaces in this dynamic city.”

For Phase 1, Mace will take on crucial roles in project and design management, ensuring that the expansion meets the highest standards of quality and innovation.

The Broader Context: Expo City Dubai

The DEC expansion is part of a larger development plan for Expo City Dubai. Recently, Dubai unveiled a comprehensive masterplan for the area, outlining new residential and commercial developments that will transform the Expo site into a thriving urban centre.

This holistic approach to development showcases Dubai’s commitment to creating sustainable, multi-purpose spaces that serve both business and community needs.

Looking Ahead: Dubai’s Events Sector

As the DEC expansion progresses, it’s clear that Dubai is not just building a venue; it’s crafting the future of its events industry. The increased capacity and state-of-the-art facilities will enable the city to host a wider range of events, from trade shows and conventions to cultural festivals and entertainment spectacles.

This growth in the events sector is expected to have a ripple effect on various industries in Dubai, including hospitality, tourism, and retail. Hotels, restaurants, and shops in the vicinity of the expanded DEC are likely to see increased footfall and revenue.

Sustainability and Innovation

While details about the sustainability features of the expanded DEC have not been disclosed, it’s reasonable to expect that the project will incorporate cutting-edge sustainable design principles. Given Dubai’s commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by initiatives like the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, the expanded DEC is likely to feature energy-efficient systems, smart building technologies, and possibly even renewable energy integration.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Dubai’s Exhibition Industry

The Dh10 billion expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre represents more than just a construction project; it’s a bold statement of Dubai’s ambitions in the global events industry. By creating one of the world’s largest and most advanced exhibition venues, Dubai is setting the stage for a new era of economic growth, innovation, and international collaboration.

As the project progresses through its phases, all eyes will be on Dubai as it continues to redefine what’s possible in the world of exhibitions and events. The expanded DEC will not only serve as a testament to Dubai’s vision and capability but also as a catalyst for future growth and development in the region.