The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has announced that it will host an impressive 71 international exhibitions and conferences in the first half of 2026. This ambitious plan is part of Dubai’s strategy to further solidify its position as a global leader in trade, investment, and business tourism. Spanning a range of sectors, including healthcare, technology, food and beverage, tourism, and energy, these events are set to attract top industry leaders, decision-makers, and investors from all over the world.
A Wide-Ranging Calendar of Events
DWTC’s calendar for the first half of 2026 is packed with major events that cover a diverse array of industries. The key events will include flagship platforms such as Gulfood, World Health Expo (WHX), and Arabian Travel Market. These events are expected to attract significant attention, providing opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. The venue will host multiple mega-events that will be co-located across both the DWTC and the newly expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC). The move is set to boost Dubai’s capacity to host large-scale international gatherings, enhancing the economic impact of each event.
Dubai’s Strategic Role in Economic Growth
According to Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at DWTC, the events hosted in H1 2026 will play a crucial role in further establishing Dubai as a catalyst for economic growth and cross-sector collaboration. This is in line with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, which aims to significantly expand the city’s global influence in the coming years.
The DEC’s expansion, part of the ongoing Dhs10bn project, is expected to increase Dubai’s ability to host high-profile events. This expansion is aligned with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan and supports the development of Expo City Dubai, making the city more attractive to business travelers and international exhibitors.
Historic Venue, Impressive Track Record
DWTC, which opened in 1979, has a long history of hosting high-profile events. Over the years, it has organized nearly 6,400 events, generating an estimated Dhs270bn in economic output and attracting over 40 million business visitors. As the leading venue for exhibitions and conferences in the region, DWTC continues to enhance its offerings, expanding its reach and reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global trade hub.
Key Events in H1 2026
The events calendar will begin in January 2026, starting with exhibitions in sectors like security, building technology, and printing. Major exhibitions such as Intersec, Light + Intelligent Building Middle East, and FESPA Middle Eastwill be among the first to take place. Later in the month, Gulfood, which will be co-hosted at both DWTC and DEC, will mark the first mega-event to be staged in the expanded DEC venue.
The February calendar will focus heavily on healthcare, aviation, and logistics, with events like World Health Expo (WHX) and WHX Labs leading the way. These events will provide industry professionals with valuable insights into the latest developments in the healthcare sector.
As Ramadan approaches, events will briefly pause before resuming after Eid, with DUPHAT in March and Middle East Energy in April. These events will cover a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, energy, and manufacturing, showcasing Dubai’s diverse business landscape.
Notable Events by Month
January 2026
The first events of the year will be held from January 12–14, with exhibitions like Intersec and Light + Intelligent Building Middle East marking the start of Dubai’s busy calendar. Gulfood, which will take place from January 26–30, is expected to be one of the biggest events in the first half of the year. It will be held at both DWTC and the expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), making it the first mega-event hosted at the newly expanded DEC.
February 2026
In February, Dubai will host several notable events, including the World Health Expo (WHX) from February 9–12 and WHX Labs from February 10–13. These events will bring together healthcare professionals and industry leaders to discuss the latest trends in the medical sector. Dubai 2026 World Stamp Exhibition, taking place from February 4–8, will also be a major attraction.
March and April 2026
After a brief pause during Ramadan, events will resume with DUPHAT, the Dubai International Pharmaceuticals and Technologies Conference, from March 24–26. In April, Middle East Energy will take place from April 7–9, focusing on the latest developments in the energy sector. DOMOTEX Middle East, another key event, will also be held in April, with a focus on the flooring industry.
May 2026
In May, the spotlight will be on the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), taking place from May 4–7. This event will bring together leaders from the tourism and hospitality industries, offering valuable networking opportunities and showcasing the latest trends in global travel.
Other major events in May will include the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid & Development Conference and the Seamless Middle East exhibition. Both events will address key global issues, including humanitarian aid and payment technologies.
June 2026
June will close out the first half of the year with a series of high-profile events, including The Hotel Show from June 2–4, CABSAT from June 2–4, and the Middle East Rail event from June 9–10. The World Police Summit will also be held in June, showcasing innovations in public safety and law enforcement technologies.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
DWTC’s events play a critical role in driving economic growth in Dubai, contributing to its global positioning as a premier business tourism and trade hub. By hosting large-scale international events, DWTC attracts global visitors, fostering cross-sector collaboration and boosting Dubai’s role in the global economy.
As the city continues to grow, Dubai World Trade Centre is set to play an even more pivotal role in shaping the future of global trade, investment, and tourism, with 71 events planned for H1 2026 expected to have a lasting economic impact.
Conclusion
The Dubai World Trade Centre’s upcoming events in 2026 are a testament to the city’s growing influence on the global stage. With a dynamic calendar spanning industries such as healthcare, technology, tourism, and energy, Dubai is further reinforcing its position as a leading destination for international exhibitions, conferences, and business tourism. The ongoing expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre will continue to support the growth of these events, ensuring that Dubai remains a top choice for global gatherings.
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