DWTC's multi-billion dollar development plans will secure Dubai's position as global events hub

Hailed as one of the UAE's most ambitious development plans to-date, DWTC will create two large scale commercial destinations: Dubai Trade Centre Jebel Ali and Dubai Trade Centre District.

Dubai Trade Centre Jebel Ali is a 7- square kilometre integrated commercial destination anchored by the 1- square kilometre major exhibition complex, Dubai Exhibition Centre (DBX).

Adjacent to the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport, estimated to be the largest passenger and cargo airport in the world, DBX will have 120,000 square metres of exhibition space at launch, growing to 300,000 square metres by the final phase, providing a modern venue that is capable of hosting the world's largest and most prestigious events.

The 100% increase in exhibition space provided by DBX will also afford the scope to immediately increase the size of some of the region's most successful trade events, such as CityScape, Gitex, Gulfood, Arabian Travel Market, and Arab Health.

Dubai Trade Centre District is positioned at the core of Dubai's business and financial district, encompassing the current exhibition centre and surrounding areas and stretching along Sheikh Zayed Road to Emirates Towers.

The District will create a new business quarter at the epicentre of the region's most dynamic city, offering premium Grade A office space, high-end retail and lifestyle outlets; a range of luxury and business hotels and serviced apartments--all set in open terraces, and tree-lined promenades

Designed after careful analysis of industry demand and projected growth trends, the two new developments will reflect Dubai's rapid transformation as a global economic powerhouse.

The projects will play an instrumental role in helping to achieve DWTC's vision; to make Dubai the world's leading destination for all major exhibitions, conferences and events.

Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre Corporation said:

"Dubai Trade Centre Jebel Ali and Dubai Trade Centre District form part of a strategic development plan that will position Dubai as the destination of choice for the global business tourism and networking sectors. Furthermore, these two new developments will cement our position as a leader in the global events industry."

DWTC is working towards contributing to the ambitious Dubai Strategic Plan 2015, as laid out by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which looks to grow the Emirate's GDP by 11 per cent a year over the next eight years, with a focus on growing tourism numbers by 15%.

Part of this will be driven by tourism and hospitality, with the convention and exhibition industry playing a major role in driving up business tourism numbers.

DWTC is working towards a target of a 1 to 1.5% contribution to the Emirate's economy based on global benchmarks.