Major Revamp Approved for Expo City Dubai
A significant transformation plan for Expo City Dubai has received the green light from city officials, which is expected to influence traffic patterns, event hosting, and residential developments. After successfully hosting the 2020 World Expo, COP28, and various prominent music events, Expo City Dubai is positioned as a key player in the future landscape of the emirate.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, endorsed the ambitious plans on the evening of Thursday, October 3. City leaders have emphasized the importance of enhancing the southern region of Dubai, particularly as Al Maktoum International Airport in Jebel Ali embarks on a Dhs128 billion redevelopment project, making the focus on Expo City a strategic move.
The new masterplan aims to establish Expo City as a fully-fledged urban hub within Dubai. Spanning an impressive 3.5 square kilometers, the site is projected to accommodate over 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals, as it evolves into a global center for businesses, investors, homeowners, and visitors alike. A crucial element of this transition is the relocation of DP World’s global headquarters from Jebel Ali to Expo City, which is anticipated to increase foot traffic significantly.
In a recent tweet, the Dubai Media Office highlighted, “New Master Plan for @ExpoCityDubai positions it at the center of Dubai’s future growth.” The plans are integral to fulfilling the ambitions set forth in the 2040 Dubai Urban Master Plan, which recognizes Expo City as one of five pivotal urban centers, as well as aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033.
Sheikh Mohammed articulated the vision behind the new masterplan, stating, “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. A new global center at the heart of our city’s growth corridor, Expo City Dubai embodies our vision for the future. It is committed to sustainable development, enhancing quality of life for all, and creating an environment where businesses can thrive, while honoring our rich heritage and embracing the unlimited opportunities ahead.”
On the transportation front, Expo City has already made significant strides by introducing the 15km Route 2020 of the Dubai Metro, which connects seven stations, alongside an extensive road network featuring nine flyovers.
Revitalization of the Dubai Exhibition Centre
The Dubai Exhibition Centre is also set to undergo a substantial revamp, with a Dhs10 billion upgrade approved in September. This initiative is designed to enable the emirate to double the number of large-scale events it can accommodate, positioning the DEC to become the largest indoor exhibition venue in the region.
Once all phases of the expansion are completed, the space will grow from its current capacity of 58,000 square meters to a remarkable 180,000 square meters. The expansion will unfold in three phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2026, increasing the space to an initial 140,000 square meters.
More Updates from Dubai
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