Dubai has announced a significant expansion of Expo City, the 2020 World Expo and COP28 site. The new plan, approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aims to transform Expo City into a global hub for business and tourism.

This site, spanning 3.5 square kilometers, will evolve to accommodate over 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals. Key features of the expansion include a new global headquarters for DP World, an enlarged Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), and a diverse mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

The Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) has been approved for a $2.7 billion expansion, establishing it as the region’s largest purpose-built indoor venue for events and exhibitions. Once completed, this venue will enhance Expo City’s capacity to host significant events and exhibitions, reinforcing its status as a global business hub.

Expo City’s strategic location near Al Maktoum International Airport, Jebel Ali Port, and DEC positions it as a key enabler for trade, logistics, technology, tourism, and events. This master plan aligns with the city’s ambitious goals outlined in the 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

The plan includes five distinct districts, interconnected by a smart transportation system and integrated green spaces, while preserving the essence of the iconic site that attracted 24 million visitors during Expo 2020.

In the north, Expo Hills will host a low-density residential community. At the same time, Expo Fields to the south will promote healthy living with amenities such as a school, sports fields, and performance areas.

Expo Business will create a campus-like environment for innovative and entrepreneurial ventures, including the Emirates Group’s Ebdaa aviation innovation hub, further driving economic growth.

Expo Downtown, an urban-dense area anchored by the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), will stretch from the metro station to the site’s eastern edge. This district will feature the iconic Al Wasl dome, the floating Terra Gardens, and the Terra Tower, the tallest mixed-use tower on-site.

Additionally, the Expo Forest will connect Expo City to Expo Valley, where construction is underway. This forested area will offer social amenities, educational spaces, and recreational facilities, seamlessly integrating into a natural setting inspired by the 2040 Urban Master Plan.

“The new master plan establishes Expo City Dubai as a hub for pioneers, entrepreneurs and investors, a magnet for innovators, educators and students, and a vibrant, nurturing community for residents and visitors,” stated Sheikh Mohammed.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, described the master plan as a “blueprint for the cities of tomorrow,” highlighting its pivotal role in achieving the goals of the D33 agenda.