Sharjah Ruler Announces AED 500 Million Exhibitions And Conventions Centre For 2027 Opening

The government of Sharjah is moving ahead with a new Exhibitions and Conventions Centre near the Emirates–Al Dhaid–Khorfakkan roads. The project’s land purchase is valued at AED146 million. Total development spending will reach Dh500 million, with completion planned within two years and opening expected in November 2027.

The Sharjah International Book Fair will shift from Expo Centre Sharjah to the new complex. The move is scheduled for the 46th edition of the fair in November 2027. This relocation is intended to give the event more space and better access, while keeping Expo Centre Sharjah active for commercial exhibitions.

Design work for the new Sharjah Exhibitions and Conventions Centre is almost finished, according to H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. Construction is due to start once designs are finalised. The project timeline sets a two‑year schedule, with teams aiming to shorten this to about 22 months.

The site choice followed several changes. The project was first planned near Sharjah Mosque, but a deep and wide excavation at that location delayed progress. Authorities studied alternative land along the same route, to keep the centre on a major transport corridor used by residents and visitors.

One potential plot was ruled out because it bordered the Al Badi neighbourhood, where quiet streets were prioritised. Authorities then secured a strategically located site near the Emirates–Al Dhaid–Khorfakkan roads for Dh146 million. The land offers a rear exit, which is expected to support smoother traffic movement and easier access.

The new Sharjah Exhibitions and Conventions Centre will not be limited to the book fair. It is planned to host many cultural and business events. The Xposure International Photography Festival has already been reassigned to the future venue, and additional exhibitions are expected to follow once construction finishes.

Sharjah Exhibitions and Conventions Centre transport and supporting plans

Expo Centre Sharjah in the Al Taawun area will continue to operate, keeping its existing programme of commercial shows. H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan discussed current traffic plans around the book fair at Expo Centre Sharjah, noting steps to improve road links and reduce congestion during major events in the district.

Further transport upgrades are being studied for the wider area. Plans include a future train station near the Al Khulafa Al Rashideen crossroads on Al Wahda Street. This station is expected to support mobility and improve access for visitors, linking with the broader transport network that serves Sharjah’s exhibition activities.

With inputs from WAM