Inside DEC’s Near-Completion Expansion Phase 1 and Readiness for Major 2026 Global Events

Phase 1 of Dubai Exhibition Centre’s (DEC) AED 10 billion expansion is in its final stages, set to deliver 140,000 sqm of event space and a citywide mobility and readiness plan to welcome Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo from early 2026. DEC is on course to become the largest purpose-built indoor exhibitions and events venue in the region by 2031, strengthening Dubai’s ability to meet the world’s growing meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) demand and reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most connected, secure and future-ready destinations for major international events.