Dubai Trade Centre Sets New Economic Record

Dubai World Trade Centre: Record Year with 22.35 Billion Dirhams Economic Output in 2024

The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in 2024 once again demonstrated its central role in Dubai's economic growth. Known for its international-level events, the center achieved a total economic output of 22.35 billion dirhams this year, of which 13.04 billion dirhams directly enriched Dubai's GDP.

Forces Behind the Growth

In 2024, the DWTC event calendar featured 100 large-scale exhibitions, international association congresses, and industry conferences, attracting over 2 million visitors. This outstanding performance not only had a direct impact on the local economy but also strengthened Dubai's position as one of the world's leading business tourism destinations.

Building on the city's long-term vision and continuous investments in forward-looking infrastructure, Dubai was able to create a platform that brings together the brightest minds, pioneering companies, and innovative ideas from around the world.

Spectacular Expansion in Events

The events at DWTC in 2024 saw a 32 percent increase compared to the previous year, not only in the number of events but also in the size and scope of existing flagship events. Of the more than 2 million visitors, 936,083 were from abroad, reflecting Dubai's global appeal.

This growth directly contributed to the creation of 85,533 jobs in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) sector and related industries, further strengthening Dubai's socio-economic development.

Outstanding Results in the MICE Sector

The 100 large-scale events generated around 2.9 billion dirhams in direct sales in the MICE sector, mainly through expenses on venue rentals, stand services, logistics, and business support services. These direct expenses amplified urban economic activity by almost eightfold: every dirham spent on DWTC events resulted in a 7.7 dirhams economic impact across Dubai.

Indirect spending associated with the events also saw significant growth, reaching 13.17 billion dirhams. Particularly strong growth was observed in the following sectors:

Business entertainment: 1.78 billion dirhams (36% growth)

Retail: 2.64 billion dirhams (34% growth)

Hospitality: 2.23 billion dirhams (30% growth)

Hotel industry: 3.41 billion dirhams (15% growth)

Air and local transport: 2.86 billion dirhams (8% growth)

These figures clearly show that the DWTC events not only create direct economic benefits but also act as a catalyst for the city's entire economy.

Significance of International Participation

The contribution of foreign visitors was particularly striking: an average international participant spent 9,833 dirhams during an event, compared to 1,673 dirhams spent by local visitors. This difference illustrates the substantial economic benefits that international business tourism brings to Dubai.

In terms of regional distribution, the main contributors were the MENA region (32%), Europe (27%), Asia and Pacific region (10%), Eastern Europe and Central Asia (10%), Indian subcontinent (10%), Africa (6%), Americas (5%), and Oceania (1%).

Role of Key Industries

In line with the emirate's economic priorities, the DWTC events also support the development of forward-looking sectors. In 2024, three main industries – healthcare, food industry, and technology – contributed 58 percent of the total GVA (gross value added), amounting to 7.59 billion dirhams.

Healthcare, medicine, and scientific sector: 21 events, 460,858 participants, 3.68 billion dirhams GVA

Food industry, hotel industry, and hospitality: 9 events, 283,119 participants, 2.35 billion dirhams GVA

Information technology: 5 events, 280,967 participants, 1.55 billion dirhams GVA

This diversity further strengthens Dubai's goal to build an innovation- and diversification-centered economy.

Looking Ahead

The DWTC continues to redefine the global MICE sector, relying on strategic partnerships and Dubai's unique geographical positioning. The first phase of the expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre is also underway, expected to be completed by 2026, offering even greater opportunities for hosting large-scale global events.

The achievements of 2024 provide a solid foundation for Dubai to continue to be among the world's top three business and travel destinations.

(The article source is the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) statement.)