Phase 1 of Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion nears completion with Mace Consult at the heart of delivery

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has confirmed that Phase 1 of the AED 10 billion (£2.1 billion) Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion is in its final stages, marking a major milestone in Dubai’s ambition to become the Middle East’s leading hub for global events.

Mace Consult is playing a pivotal role in this landmark project, providing a range of services for Phase 1 that include project and design management, from early main and specialist contractor input to detailed stakeholder management, progress tracking and reporting, and effective risk and opportunities management.

Works have progressed at record pace to ready the expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) for its debut in early 2026 when it will host two world-famous mega exhibitions: Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo.

Phase 1 of DEC will deliver 140,000 square metres of event space, including 64,000 square metres of permanent exhibition halls and 30,000 square metres of flexible pavilion areas, integrated with the existing complex to accommodate up to 50,000 visitors per day.

The development forms part of a broader masterplan that will make DEC the largest purpose-built indoor exhibitions and events venue in the region by 2031.

Mace Consult’s work on the project builds on its successful delivery of the original Dubai Exhibition Centre (formerly COEX) for Expo 2020 Dubai, reinforcing its reputation for delivering complex, world-class infrastructure in the UAE and around the world.

Stephen Venney, UAE Country Director at Mace Consult, said:

“The Dubai Exhibition Centre Phase 1 expansion will provide a world-class, future-ready venue that will strengthen Dubai’s ability to meet the growing demand for major international events and exhibitions. At Mace Consult, we are delighted to be supporting our long-term client DWTC with this landmark project, bringing all our best practice knowledge and expertise to help deliver a truly world-class destination.”

Amer Al Farsi, Vice President of Real Estate Development at Dubai World Trade Centre, said:

“The Dubai Exhibition Centre expansion stands as one of Dubai’s most advanced infrastructure projects, combining intelligent design, scale, and sustainability. With Phase 1 nearing completion, every structural and operational milestone has been achieved through close coordination with our partners across the city, and Mace Consult has been integral to this. Our teams are now focused on final readiness, ensuring that the venue’s systems, facilities, and visitor infrastructure reflect DWTC’s uncompromising standards of quality and safety. This development reinforces Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most connected, secure, and future-ready destinations for major international events.”