Expo City Dubai Sets The Stage For An Unforgettable Tourism Revolution In 2026

Published on December 22, 2025

Expo City in Dubai has reestablished its position as the epicenter of the UAE for international events, cultural interactions and public-oriented experiences. A variety of events all year round, Expo City has attracted and entertained more than seventy-five high-profile events in 2025 and captivated into hundreds of thousands of visitors. At the end of the year, the city prepares for an even more thrilling 2026, eager to maintain its status as one of the world’s premier event locations.

A Year of Global Engagement and Cultural Celebrations

The year 2025 at Expo City Dubai has been a whirlwind of international summits, art festivals, sporting events, and community programs. These events have attracted a global audience, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading player in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The city’s versatile spaces, including the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), have hosted influential gatherings like the Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum, which brought together over 150 mayors from more than 300 cities to discuss urban growth and sustainability.

Expo City’s role in fostering global dialogue and investment was evident at this event, with discussions unlocking US$9 billion in investment opportunities. This summit was a milestone for the Middle East, showcasing Dubai as a key facilitator of change and progress on the global stage. The momentum did not stop there, with the city hosting other landmark events such as the Sustainable Destinations Forum and the 13th Clean Energy Business Council Annual Summit, which brought together policymakers and industry leaders to explore responsible tourism and clean energy solutions.

Commitment to Sustainability and Cultural Stewardship

Expo City Dubai has also made strides in sustainability, unveiling Terra’s IUCN Centre for Species Survival to accelerate biodiversity protection. This global platform is a significant step in Expo City’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship. A key highlight of this initiative was the inauguration of the Jane Goodall Pollinator Garden by the late Dr. Jane Goodall, which raises awareness about the importance of pollinators like bees.

Cultural experiences have been at the forefront of Expo City’s offerings, with signature events like Hai Ramadan, which celebrated the Islamic holy month, and Dhai Dubai, a light exhibition that returned for its second edition. These events allowed residents and visitors alike to connect with the essence of Emirati culture. In addition, the Women’s Pavilion spearheaded several empowering initiatives, including the Return to Work Programme, which supported women re-entering the workforce, and the first-ever FemTech Hackathon, a high-energy event that invited students to create solutions for women’s health and wellbeing.

Expanding the Cultural and Artistic Landscape

Expo City has expanded its partnership with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, launching the House of Arts, an exciting new venue located in the former Morocco Pavilion. This public space offers a platform for artistic expression, exhibitions, and workshops. The city’s dedication to fostering creative talent is evident in its growing arts and culture scene, where community-driven initiatives continue to thrive.

The city’s commitment to sustainability was further highlighted at the Al Wasl Season, which launched with the Harvest Festival. This event promoted sustainable farming practices while bringing families together for a weekend of fun activities. The popularity of these events was clear when the Festival of Cake drew thousands of visitors for a unique community celebration where guests brought their own creations to share. Meanwhile, the Winter City festival attracted 38,000 visitors in its first week, marking a strong start to the holiday season.

A Hub for Family and Community-Focused Events

Expo City Dubai has also positioned itself as a family-friendly destination with numerous events aimed at uniting the community. The Big Sing, held for school students, saw young voices coming together to advocate for future sustainable cities. Seasonal camps and interactive events like the City Nature Challenge and Bee Festival allowed families to enjoy fun and educational activities, all while promoting environmental awareness.

Sports and wellness events have been a consistent part of Expo City’s event calendar, with over 20,000 participants joining runs, cycling challenges, and other fitness initiatives. These events not only promote healthy lifestyles but also contribute to the UAE’s wider goal of creating an active and engaged population. The Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge and Pocari Sweat Run are prime examples of how Expo City continues to integrate wellness into its event offerings.

Looking Ahead to 2026: More Global Events and Community Engagement

As 2025 draws to a close, Expo City Dubai is already gearing up for an even more exciting 2026. The city is set to host major international events like GITEX 2026 and the World Health Expo (formerly Arab Health), which are expected to draw global leaders, innovators, and thought leaders to Dubai. The city’s strategic location and expanding infrastructure, including the Dubai Exhibition Centre, make it the ideal destination for large-scale international gatherings.

Expo City Dubai will also see the addition of its first residents in the second half of 2026, further solidifying its role as a vibrant, sustainable, and people-centric destination. The year ahead promises even more captivating events, from global summits to cultural celebrations, ensuring that Expo City remains at the forefront of Dubai’s event-driven tourism strategy.

Expo City Dubai continues to shine as a beacon of cultural exchange, innovation, and sustainability, proving that it is not just a place to visit, but a place to experience, engage, and grow. With a calendar already brimming with promising events for 2026, Expo City is poised to remain a key player in global tourism and a dynamic hub for major international gatherings.

Bottom Line

The spectacular 2025 calendar of Expo City Dubai is a clear indication of its rising status as a worldwide event site. The whole city has unyieldingly made its mark as the most powerful venue for the world’s seizure of attention with landmark events in MICE, arts, culture, and sustainability. Besides, Expo City is ready for an even more thrilling 2026 with fresh events, larger international meetings, and the already growing population of residents who are willing to contribute to the city’s lively future.