Transformations at Expo City: A New Era Begins

Expo City, the vibrant site in the south of Dubai, is set to undergo significant changes as part of an ambitious new masterplan. Initially conceived as a vehicle-free pedestrian paradise when it was established in 2022, the updated vision for Expo City will now incorporate vehicle access to enhance its functionality and accessibility.

This expansive 3.5 square kilometer site will evolve into a thriving community, accommodating over 35,000 residents and serving as a professional hub for an additional 40,000 workers. While the original concept aimed for a serene, traffic-free environment, officials have announced that emergency services, delivery vehicles, and private cars will be permitted on the premises. However, there is no need for concern about increased traffic congestion, as the plan focuses on controlled vehicle access.

Strategic Developments Ahead

In September, city leaders unveiled a comprehensive overhaul for Expo City, positioning it as a self-sustaining urban center. This redesign aims to create a community where residents and workers can access all essential services within a short walking distance, fostering convenience and a high quality of life. Key projects included in this transformation encompass a Dhs1.75 billion mixed-use development adjacent to the Dubai Exhibition Centre, the establishment of DP World’s global headquarters, and significant renovations to the Dubai Exhibition Centre itself.

According to Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer at Expo City Dubai, the integration of vehicle access is a vital component of the site’s evolution. He stated, “Expo City Dubai will be a fully integrated city, which necessitates enabling access for private, delivery, and emergency service vehicles to certain areas of the city.” He emphasized that the masterplan embraces the idea of a ’15-minute city’ tailored to the region, prioritizing walkability and climate comfort.

Focus on Sustainable Mobility

The revamped masterplan for Expo City is designed to ensure that all daily tasks can be completed within a brief walk, seamlessly connecting homes, workplaces, schools, and leisure areas, while providing easy access to vital amenities such as healthcare, retail outlets, and sports facilities.

Officials are keen to highlight that the plan still emphasizes the use of low-emission vehicles, such as e-scooters and Careem bikes, rather than traditional cars. Expo City will also play a pivotal role in the broader initiative to cultivate a pedestrian-friendly environment across the emirate. Ahmed Al Khatib further noted, “The design also supports soft mobility options—which are particularly important in the summer months—and convenient public transport connectivity via the Dubai Metro with our existing dedicated metro station, linking Expo City to over 60 stations across Dubai.”

“The Expo City Dubai master plan reflects our vision to become a people-centric city of the future, offering a better quality of life by encouraging active mobility, reducing commute times, improving air quality, and providing more opportunities for social connection,” he added. The design also aligns with the newly announced Dubai Walk Masterplan, aimed at transforming the emirate into a year-round pedestrian-friendly city, reaffirming Expo City’s pivotal role in the broader 2040 Dubai Urban Masterplan.

In Other Dubai News

• Upcoming Music Festivals in the UAE: The big parties to keep your eye on.
• UAE Public Holidays for 2025 Revealed: Save the date for these days off.
• Exciting Concerts and Gigs Coming to Dubai in 2024 and Beyond: There’s shows for every taste.