The Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), located at Expo City Dubai, is set to become the region’s largest purpose-built indoor events and exhibitions venue.
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has announced he has approved the Dh10 billion ($2.7 billion) DEC expansion plan, aligning with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
The expanded DEC will feature a hotel, retail outlets, commercial offices, and an industrial kitchen, positioning it as a dynamic economic hub that attracts talent and opportunities globally. Once fully operational, the venue will host over 600 large-scale events annually, doubling the current number.
“This iconic venue will not only become the largest indoor exhibition and events destination in the region but also set new global standards for excellence in the industry. We are committed to consolidating Dubai’s status as a global leader in the events and exhibitions sector and the top destination for mega events,” Sheikh Mohammed said.
The DEC masterplan includes three key phases. The first phase, set to be completed by 2026, will expand the exhibition space to 140,000 square metres. By 2028, Phase 2 will increase this to nearly 160,000 square metres, with additional infrastructure enhancements.
The final phase, to be completed by 2031, will bring the total space to 180,000 square meters, featuring 26 halls on a single level spanning 1.2 kilometres.
The DEC master plan supports the establishment of Dubai’s new urban centre, encompassing Expo City Dubai, the UAE’s first 15-minute city, the broader Dubai South community, and Al Maktoum International Airport.
