Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a major center for expos, trade shows, and business meetings. The Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) is a leading venue that has recently expanded to meet the growing demand for large exhibitions and events. This blog looks into DEC’s new facilities, its growth strategy, and the exciting shows coming up.

An Overview of the Existing Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC)

The Dubai Exhibition Centre, located in Expo City Dubai, is one of the most advanced and flexible event spaces in the region. It played a significant role at Expo 2020 Dubai, attracting thousands of visitors, business groups, and world leaders. The building is known for its adaptable interior spaces, digital infrastructure, direct metro access, and sustainable, LEED-certified design. Before the expansion, DEC offered 45,000 square meters of flexible space across various halls for both public exhibitions and business summits.

Strategy Behind the Expansion

The UAE’s long-term goals include:

• Boosting Dubai’s competitiveness in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry
• Meeting the rising demand from international organizers
• Supporting Expo City’s growth

These goals influenced the decision to expand DEC. As Dubai prepared for mega events like COP28, GITEX Global, and Gulfood, there was a clear need to increase capacity and technology to manage high-traffic and high-profile gatherings simultaneously.

Statistics of the Expanded Areas

The Dubai Exhibition Centre now spans 70,000 square meters, adding 25,000 square meters of exhibition space. The expansion includes new halls and meeting rooms for concurrent events, upgraded smart venue technology (like AI-powered wayfinding and real-time occupancy analytics), and enhanced logistics and support areas for exhibitors. This expansion improves not only the facility’s size but also the experience for visitors through better flow, signage, and on-site amenities.

Expansion Details: What’s New?

The new development phase includes:

• Three new halls with movable partitions
• Modern lighting and HVAC systems aimed at sustainability
• A special VIP area with business suites and private lounges
• Connection to Expo City’s digital grid for efficient tech management
• More parking spaces and improved logistics for cargo and exhibitors

With these changes, DEC is now a forward-looking destination for international business interactions.

Upcoming Shows at Dubai Exhibition Centre

With the expansion finished, the DEC is preparing to host several major events in 2025 and later, including:

• Arab Health 2025
• Big 5 Global
• GISEC Global
• Middle East Energy
• Seamless Middle East
• COP28 Green Zone Activations
• Industry-specific B2B shows and tech launches

Each of these events is expected to draw thousands of international attendees and exhibitors, further boosting Dubai’s trade and tourism.

Conclusion

The expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre reflects Dubai’s ambition to remain a top global event destination. This move is more than just a physical upgrade. With its improved facilities, DEC is ready to host the biggest ideas, innovations, and industries all in one place. Now is a great time to engage in DEC events, whether you plan to exhibit or attend. Dubai’s exhibition industry is not only larger but also smarter, greener, and more global than ever before.