Dubai is experiencing significant growth in the business events sector, thanks to the concerted efforts of Dubai Business Events, the official convention bureau. The rise in successful bids reflects a 15% increase over the previous year, forecasted to bring in over 272,000 delegates to the city by 2029. This data hints at a robust future for Dubai’s events landscape, with projections showing a 29% increase in delegate numbers compared to that of 2024.

Impact on Tourism and Service Industries

The influx of delegates is poised to create substantial benefits for multiple sectors, including hotels, airlines, retail, transportation, and hospitality. This thriving events pipeline not only drives visitor numbers but also attracts valuable expertise and investment interest, bolstering industries like professional services and event management. In 2025, Dubai hosted 481 business events supported by Dubai Business Events, a rise from 429 in the previous year. This growth trajectory is reflected in the number of bids submitted, which reached 747, an 11% increase over 2024.

Local officials attribute this success to effective partnerships between public and private sectors, which align with Dubai’s long-term economic objectives. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, emphasized the essential role that business events play in augmenting economic growth and enhancing the city’s global stature. He stated that this ongoing success reinforces Dubai’s reputation as a premier destination for excellence and impactful engagements.

Focus on High-Value Sectors

Dubai’s event wins cover diverse sectors such as healthcare, finance, technology, energy, and engineering. Noteworthy events on the calendar include the World Engineers Congress 2027, Apimondia 2027, and the World Ophthalmology Congress 2028. Additionally, the anticipated SWIFT Conference and Exhibition, SIBOS, is set to attract about 12,000 delegates in 2029, emphasizing the city’s focus on the financial services sector.

The local authority has also made strides in attracting large-scale corporate programs like the Africa Energy Forum 2026 and UNLEASH Middle East 2026, events that gather top executives and decision-makers. Dubai Business Events has maintained a proactive international presence through participation in major trade shows and conducting sales missions in priority markets. Complementary initiatives, such as the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme, engage UAE-based experts to attract global congresses to the city.

Strategic Partnerships Enhance Bid Success

Collaborations with international industry organizations, combined with Dubai’s robust air connectivity, have been instrumental in the city’s bidding success. In the first half of 2025, Dubai International Airport recorded its busiest six months ever, underscoring the city’s accessibility for global delegates. This seamless transport infrastructure complements the booming events sector, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.

As Dubai continues to solidify its standing as a leading destination for business events, the blend of strategic initiatives, high-value sector focus, and exceptional infrastructure will play critical roles in shaping its future. The city’s commitment to providing outstanding service and fostering global engagement positions it favorably within the competitive landscape of international business tourism.