The Honorable In the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, approved a new master plan for Expo City Dubai.
The revised plan outlines Expo City Dubai’s role in spearheading Dubai’s future expansion and enhancing the emirate’s standing globally. Expo City Dubai, the site of the historic 2020 World Expo and COP28, is expected to play a significant role in propelling the emirate’s progress in numerous industries.
Expo City Dubai’s plans for expansion will only serve to strengthen its standing as the cornerstone of Dubai’s growth, offering significant investment opportunities to forward-thinking entities. It is in a great position to support Dubai’s ambitions for growth in a number of significant areas, including business, events, trade and logistics, technology and innovation, and tourism, because of to its close proximity to the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Jebel Ali Port, and Al Maktoum International Airport.
The plans are necessary to achieve the goals of the 2040 Dubai Urban Master Plan, which includes Expo City as one of five significant urban centers, and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033. One of the main reasons for this growth is the Dubai South region’s explosive development, which helps the emirate hold onto its status as a major global hub for trade, business, investment, and tourism.
Sheikh Mohammed said, “A decade ago, we paved the way for a new city to rise within Dubai – one that would host the world, drive innovation and sustainability, and propel the UAE into a new era of prosperity. Together, as a community, we have been on a remarkable journey, and today we reveal a new chapter in our long-term vision to advance our ambitions.
“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 centre 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 thrive, while honouring our rich heritage and embracing the unlimited opportunities ahead,” His Highness added.
Expo City Dubai, whose 3.5 square kilometres will house over 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals, is set to become a global centre for businesses, investors, real estate owners, and tourists who share its vision of a more prosperous, connected, and sustainable future.
DP World headquarters
The master plan includes the new global headquarters of DP World, a well-known international trade facilitator and one of the UAE’s flagship companies, as well as DEC, a major contributor to Dubai’s economic growth and one of the city’s main entry points. DEC recently announced plans to expand from its current location.
The event to approve the new master plan was attended by senior officials, directors general of Dubai government departments, and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and the chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council.
Five districts
With a network of green and blue spaces, smart transportation, and other features, the plan presents five districts arranged into an efficient grid system, all while maintaining the essence of the stunning built environment that greeted 24 million visitors for Expo 2020 Dubai.
South of the city, Expo Fields, with its open performance spaces, sports fields, and school, will be a model community for healthy living. A low-density residential community will be available in Expo Hills, which is located north of the city. Expo Business offers a campus-like environment to the most inventive and creative companies that share Expo City’s commitment to sustainability and human progress, such as the Emirates Group’s Ebdaa aviation innovation hub.
The metro station will mark the eastern edge of DEC’s densely populated Expo Downtown. The tallest structure on the property, Terra Tower, a mixed-use, upscale hotel and office tower, will be visible, along with the famous Al Wasl dome and the recently constructed floating Terra Gardens. Influenced by the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the Expo Forest will connect Expo City and Expo Valley, where construction is currently underway, and offer social amenities, recreational opportunities, and educational spaces in a natural setting.
The goal of the plan is to balance the needs of people, environmental preservation, and societal advancement while maintaining its resilience. It will be implemented gradually and adjusted over time to meet changing demands. Expo City will be able to meet its Net Zero by 2050 targets and set new benchmarks for sustainable urban excellence because of key performance indicators pertaining to biodiversity, economic growth, energy use, and wellness.