Dubai’s business events sector continued its upward trajectory in 2025, with nearly one million international visitors attending major exhibitions, conferences, and trade shows hosted by the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC).

According to newly released data, DWTC’s portfolio of large-scale events attracted more than 2.18 million attendees during the year, including approximately 947,000 international visitors. Overseas participants accounted for 44% of total attendance, highlighting  Dubai’s growing appeal as a global meeting point for businesses, investors, and industry leaders.

The influx of international visitors generated significant economic activity across the emirate. Foreign attendees spent an average of more than Dh9,900 per event—almost seven times as much as local participants—contributing to sectors ranging from hospitality and aviation to retail and dining.

Longer stays amplified the economic impact. International visitors remained in Dubai for an average of 5.6 days per event and often traveled with colleagues or family members, creating additional demand for hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, and transport services.

The economic ripple effect extended well beyond event venues. Direct spending across accommodation, travel, retail, food and beverage, entertainment, and government-related services reached Dh13.48 billion in 2025. Overall, every dirham spent at a DWTC event generated Dh5.5 in economic output across Dubai’s wider economy.

Healthcare, food and beverage, and technology emerged as the strongest-performing sectors within DWTC’s event calendar. Together, these industries generated more than Dh8.1 billion in economic value and attracted the majority of international attendees participating in large-scale events throughout the year.

Healthcare and medical events led the way, drawing more than 434,000 attendees and contributing Dh3.73 billion in gross value added. Food and beverage exhibitions generated Dh2.38 billion, while technology-focused events spanning ICT, electronics, and emerging technologies contributed nearly Dh2 billion to the economy.

The strong performance comes as Dubai continues expanding its capacity to host international events. The ongoing development of the Dubai Exhibition Center at Expo City is expected to enable the emirate to host larger global gatherings and strengthen its position in the competitive business tourism market.

The latest figures highlight how business events are increasingly serving as an economic engine for Dubai, supporting growth across multiple sectors while reinforcing the city’s ambition to become one of the world’s leading destinations for commerce, innovation, and international collaboration.