Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, has officially approved a comprehensive master plan for Expo City Dubai. The newly approved plan aims to accommodate approximately 75,000 people, including both residents and professionals, through the development of residential and business facilities.
Vision for Future Growth
The blueprint for Expo City Dubai is designed to transform the area, which previously hosted ‘Expo 2020 Dubai’ and the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), into a key driver of Dubai’s future economic growth. Covering 3.5 square kilometers and spanning across five distinct districts, the city will have the capacity to host over 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals. Additionally, the plan includes significant investments such as the construction of a new global headquarters for DP World and an international exhibition center valued at AED 10 billion.
A City of Innovation and Sustainability
Describing the approval as a milestone in Dubai’s development, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that the plan aims to position Expo City Dubai as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment. “This city will serve as a foundation for creativity and sustainability, contributing to Dubai’s global reputation as a forward-thinking city,” he remarked.
The ruler emphasized that Expo City Dubai is poised to become a model for future urban developments, demonstrating Dubai’s commitment to fostering environments that benefit society through sustainable and innovative solutions.
Strategic Role in Dubai’s Vision
The event was attended by key officials, including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. Sheikh Hamdan reiterated that Expo City Dubai aligns with Sheikh Mohammed’s broader vision for creating a future-oriented city that champions sustainability and continually improves the quality of life. He also noted that the strategic location of Expo City would support the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), further reinforcing its role as a model for future cities.
Business and Economic Impact
The proximity of Expo City to Al Maktoum Airport, Jebel Ali Port, and the Dubai Exhibition Centre offers significant business opportunities, particularly for investors. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, highlighted the decision to relocate DP World’s global headquarters to Expo City as a strategic move, given its location within Dubai’s Logistics Corridor. This, he noted, would streamline business operations by significantly reducing sea-air transfer times.
Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, also emphasized that the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport as part of the new plan provides further strategic advantages, offering businesses unparalleled convenience to operate on a global scale.
Urban Development and Community Focus
Expo City Dubai’s master plan is built around five distinct districts, each offering a unique environment designed for various purposes. Expo Hills, located to the north, will provide a low-density residential community, while Expo Fields in the south will focus on health and wellness, featuring sports facilities, open spaces, and a school.
Expo Business, a district dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, will offer a collaborative campus-like setting for companies. The urban-dense Expo Downtown will integrate key landmarks, including the Al Wasl dome and Terra Tower, and feature the new floating Terra Gardens. Additionally, the Expo Forest will serve as a recreational and educational area, connecting the city to Expo Valley, which is already under construction.
This ambitious master plan for Expo City Dubai sets the stage for a vibrant, sustainable, and innovative community, contributing significantly to Dubai’s long-term economic and social development.
