Dubai World Trade Centre Begins Phase 1 Of AED 10 Billion Expansion For Dubai Exhibition Centre

The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has embarked on the initial phase of expanding the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai. With enabling works and piling contracts completed, main construction is now in progress. This AED10 billion expansion plan, approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to make DEC the largest indoor events venue in the region.

Upon completion, the expanded DEC will host over 600 large-scale events annually by 2033, doubling the current number of around 300. This development will solidify Dubai's position as a premier hub for international exhibitions and business events. The masterplan aligns with Dubai's 2040 Urban Master Plan, supporting the creation of a new urban centre that includes Expo City Dubai, Dubai South community, and Al Maktoum International Airport.

The first phase involves significant foundation work with 515 piles supporting the structure. It uses 14,000 tonnes of structural steel and 48,000 cubic meters of reinforced concrete. The roof sheeting will cover an area equivalent to 62 Olympic-size swimming pools. Additionally, there will be dedicated parking facilities and expanded marshalling yards to improve event turnaround times.

This expansion is expected to boost DWTC's share in the multi-billion-dollar MICE industry. By 2033, it aims to triple its economic contribution to AED54 billion annually. The first phase will introduce permanent exhibition halls spanning 64,000 square metres and temporary halls covering around 30,000 square metres. This will increase total indoor capacity to 140,000 square metres by 2026.

Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at DWTC, stated: "The Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion marks a transformative era for Dubai’s MICE sector, solidifying our city's standing as a global powerhouse for mega events. The expanded venue will enable us to double the number of events from 300 to 600 by 2033, setting new international benchmarks for exhibitions and conferences."

Amer Al Farsi, Acting Vice President of Real Estate Development at DWTC, added: "The DEC expansion is a pivotal step towards the future of Dubai’s flagship mega exhibitions and events. The first phase alone will increase our purpose-built indoor event hosting capacity to 140,000 square metres." He emphasised that sustainability is embedded into every aspect of its design and operations.

Sustainability and Future Prospects

The expanded DEC will offer flexible configurations for diverse events with advanced digital infrastructure. DWTC's commitment to sustainability is highlighted by its LEED certification from the US Green Building Council. The facility incorporates environmentally conscious design elements to optimise efficiency while reducing environmental impact.

Construction continues alongside ongoing events at the existing DEC facility. This ensures that Dubai's MICE sector remains active during development. The project not only enhances physical capacity but also serves as a catalyst for redefining global event standards with Dubai leading this transformation.

With inputs from WAM