Dubai is nearing completion of the $2.7bn expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), marking a major milestone in the city’s global events strategy.
Phase one of the project – now in its final stages – will be ready to host two of the world’s most influential exhibitions, Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo (formerly Arab Health), from early 2026. The expansion underscores the Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) commitment to strengthening the emirate’s position as a world-class hub for business, trade and large-scale international events.
Located at the heart of Expo City Dubai, the DEC expansion marks a major step in strengthening Dubai’s global events infrastructure. Once fully complete, the centre will become the largest purpose-built indoor exhibitions and events venue in the region by 2031, capable of hosting up to 50,000 visitors per day.
Phase one of the expansion will deliver 140,000sq m of total event space, including 64,000sq m of new exhibition halls and 30,000sq m of flexible pavilion space, integrated into the existing complex.
Temporary pavilions will add capacity for the 2026 mega events, connecting directly to the main halls and the central arrival plaza, supported by outdoor F&B terraces and activation zones to enhance the visitor experience. Convenient pedestrian links connect the pavilions to Expo City’s Al Wasl and the Expo 2020 Metro Station.
Following the conclusion of the Q1 2026 events, the pavilion areas will transition back into construction for the next phase of expansion.
