Dubai sets vision in motion with new master plan for Expo City

In an inspiring display of leadership and foresight, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, has approved an ambitious new master plan for Expo City Dubai.

The announcement was made in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, setting the stage for a transformative future.

A catalyst for growth

This groundbreaking plan outlines Expo City Dubai’s pivotal role in driving the emirate’s development and enhancing its global standing. Once the site of the historic 2020 World Expo and COP28, Expo City Dubai is poised to become a key engine of progress across various sectors, fueling innovation and economic diversification.

Spanning 3.5 square kilometers, Expo City Dubai is envisioned as a thriving ecosystem for over 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals. It promises to be a global hub for businesses, investors, and visitors, uniting those who share a vision for a more connected, sustainable future.

Strategic connectivity and investment opportunities

The new master plan positions Expo City Dubai as a linchpin for growth, strategically located near Al Maktoum International Airport, Jebel Ali Port, and the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC). These elements ensure that Expo City will not only drive the emirate’s aspirations in trade, logistics, technology, and tourism but also offer significant investment opportunities for forward-thinking entities.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasized this vision, stating,

“A decade ago, we paved the way for a new city to rise within Dubai – one that would host the world, drive innovation and sustainability, and propel the UAE into a new era of prosperity. Today, we reveal a new chapter in our long-term vision to advance our ambitions.”

A community of innovators and pioneers

'The master plan establishes Expo City Dubai as a nurturing community for pioneers, entrepreneurs, and investors, creating a vibrant environment for innovators, educators, and students.

His Highness added, “It is committed to sustainable development, enhancing quality of life for all, and creating an environment where businesses thrive, while honoring our rich heritage and embracing the unlimited opportunities ahead.”

Sheikh Hamdan echoed these sentiments, stating, “Expo City Dubai embodies the vision of H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to build a future-ready city that drives sustainability, anticipates opportunities, and constantly raises the quality of life for everyone who calls Dubai home.”

Infrastructure for a global hub

The approval of this master plan comes as a vital component of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which identifies Expo City as one of five key urban centers. This initiative is integral to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of the emirate’s economy by 2033.

Cutting-edge design and sustainability

The new master plan incorporates advanced infrastructure, including a smart transportation system and a network of green and blue spaces. Expo City is set to feature five districts designed as an efficient grid system, maintaining the essence of the spectacular environment that welcomed 24 million visitors during Expo 2020.

With components like Expo Hills offering a serene residential community, Expo Fields, designed for healthy living, and Expo Business, a campus-like environment for innovative enterprises, the plan reflects a commitment to sustainability and human progress.

Additionally, the urban-dense Expo Downtown will be anchored by the DEC, featuring the iconic Al Wasl dome and the new floating Terra Gardens. The Expo Forest, connecting Expo City to the evolving Expo Valley, will provide social amenities, educational spaces, and recreational areas, all embedded in a natural environment.

A vision for the future

As we look ahead, the phased development of Expo City Dubai will adapt to the changing needs of the future while setting new benchmarks in sustainable urban excellence. With targets to achieve Net Zero by 2050, the plan promises a holistic approach that balances human needs, environmental stewardship, and societal advancement. The journey of Expo City Dubai is just beginning, and with it comes a promise of growth, innovation, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all. This master plan is not merely a blueprint for a city; it is a vision for a thriving, interconnected future that holds endless possibilities.