Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has launched the first phase of its AED 10 billion ($2.72 billion) expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai. Approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this project will transform DEC into the region's largest indoor venue for events with the aim of doubling Dubai’s annual large-scale events from 300 to over 600 by 2033.

Phase 1 which is already underway will add 64,000 sqm of permanent exhibition halls and 30,000 sqm of temporary space, bringing the total indoor capacity to 140,000 sqm by 2026. The expansion will also feature improved infrastructure including additional parking and marshalling yards and aims to increase daily visitor capacity to 50,000 people.

The expansion is a key part of Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan supporting Expo City Dubai, Dubai South and Al Maktoum International Airport. The DEC’s growth will help Dubai cement its position as a global hub for mega events while the venue’s LEED certification ensures sustainability throughout the development.

By 2033, the DEC expansion is expected to triple the economic contribution of Dubai’s MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) sector to AED 54 billion annually. The new facility will offer greater flexibility, connectivity and state-of-the-art digital infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the global events industry.