Dubai has solidified its status as a premier destination for international business events, demonstrating exceptional growth in 2025. The city successfully secured a staggering 504 global business events set to unfold over the next four years, marking a 15% increase in successful bids year-on-year. Driven by Dubai Business Events (DBE), which operates under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this upward trend emphasizes Dubai’s competitive edge in the global business events landscape, aligning with its long-term economic goals.

Significant Increase in Delegates and Events

Dubai’s commitment to hosting reputable global gatherings is evident through its projection of attracting around 272,262 delegates by 2029. This figure reflects a notable 29% rise compared to the previous year, when 209,545 delegates were secured. The influx of international delegates significantly benefits the local economy, particularly in the meetings, incentives, and conferences sectors, further integrating into Dubai’s broader travel and tourism environment. Beyond the numbers, these high-profile events bring essential expertise, talent, and investment opportunities, reinforcing Dubai as a hub for knowledge sharing and innovation.

The year 2025 saw Dubai hosting 481 business events supported by DBE, an increase from the 429 events held in 2024. This 9% growth illustrates the city’s robust international and domestic business events calendar, bolstered by an 11% rise in bid submissions—from 669 in 2024 to 747 in 2025. This momentum is a testament to Dubai’s attraction as a favored destination for major global events.

Collaboration Driving Growth

The impressive performance in securing business events is a direct result of the collaborative efforts between public and private sector entities. Dubai’s accessibility, safety, world-class infrastructure, and extensive experience in hosting complex international events are significant contributors to its success. This growing recognition for business events is intricately linked to Dubai’s Economic Agenda, dubbed D33, which aims to further establish the city as a leading center for global business and leisure activities.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, remarked on the critical role that business events play in propelling Dubai’s economic development and global standing. He noted that the city’s performance in 2025 illustrated the confidence held by international organizations and stakeholders in Dubai’s capability to deliver excellence, versatility, and significant impact.

Strategic Initiatives and Future Events

Looking forward, Dubai has already secured several high-profile global congresses for the coming years. These include major events such as the World Engineers Congress in 2027, set to welcome 3,000 delegates, and the World Ophthalmology Congress in 2028, estimated to attract 12,000 participants. Additionally, Dubai made strides in the corporate and incentive segments, landing various significant programs such as the Africa Energy Forum in 2026, showcasing the city’s capacity to host large-scale, impactful events.

DBE has proactively engaged with international event organizers, participating in key trade shows such as IMEX Frankfurt and Barcelona, along with promotional missions in priority markets. These strategies ensure Dubai remains top-of-mind for international clients looking for premier venues for their events. Furthermore, initiatives like the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme have mobilized local experts to draw international congresses, underlying Dubai’s comprehensive approach to building its business events capabilities.

As Dubai prepares to enter 2026, the city stands ready to leverage its expansive pipeline of forthcoming international business events to drive continued economic impact and enhance its knowledge-driven growth. For more details on business opportunities and events in Dubai, visit the Dubai Business Events website.