In a way, 2024 marks the entry of the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) into a new milestone-adulating avenue. In that year, the DWTC would have thousands of clients running into 2.65 million people that visited the Trade Centre-a 7% rise from the previous year. This increase demonstrates the growing level at which Dubai is positioning itself as a global hub for business events and exhibitions.
Broadening Event Portfolio
A large proliferation in DWTC events happened in 2024 as it played host to 378 shows and events-an impressive 26% rise from last year’s record.
Out of this total, additions included 40 newcomers: 10 exhibitions, 17 conferences, and 13 association conventions.
Such diversification has not only broadened the horizon of the events landscape in Dubai but has increased the attraction for varied industries and professionals.
Boom in MICE Sector
The MICE boom has been phenomenal. The events increased to 135 in 2024 from 107 events reported in 2023.
These facilities attracted a total of over 2.03 million attendees: a very healthy 30% growth year-on-year. Nearly all of the participation came from international attendees who made up more than 942,000 MICE participants, which is equivalent to 46% of total MICE attendees and reinforced Dubai’s standing as a premier international business city.
Indicators of Sectorial Development
Healthcare, Medical, and Scientific: This sector topped MICE participation by holding 25 events, pulling well in excess of 465,000 attendees, which is an increase of 69% compared to 2023.
Important ones include WHX Expo Dubai (formerly Arab Health), AEEDC, DUPHAT, WHX Labs Dubai (formerly Medlab), and Dubai Derma.
- Food, Hotel, and Catering: The total turnout in this sector was 28,300, showing 25% annual growth.
- Information Technology: This sector attracted 281,000 people, with an 8% increase from the previous year.
Global Participation
The year also stood witness to the advent of 58,665 exhibiting companies that recorded an increase of 9% from 2023, out of which 77% firms originated in international markets.
This blow in numbers is concurrent with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to place Dubai among the world’s top three cities for business and tourism.
Perspective on Leadership
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, said of performance: “Our achievements in 2024 bear testimony to growth not only in numbers but in the strong assertion of Dubai’s position in the global market. The unparalleled increase in international participation shows the increasing trust in the vibrant business ecosystem of Dubai and the role played by DWTC in developing meaningful commercial connections.”
The performance of DWTC in 2024 further justifies the continuing economic growth of Dubai as it plays an important global role in business and trade facilitation. This picture, along with the cross-sectional development in several sectors and the increase in international participation, paints a strategic portrait for the emirate within the backdrop of the global event space.