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Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism - LogoDubai has firmly positioned itself as a global leader in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry by securing a record 437 business events for 2024. These landmark wins, orchestrated by Dubai Business Events (DBE) in collaboration with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors, will welcome over 210,000 delegates to the city, marking a 20% year-on-year increase in successful bids.

This milestone reinforces Dubai’s reputation as an unparalleled destination for global business events, bolstered by cutting-edge infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and an ever-expanding knowledge economy. Moreover, these events are poised to drive the city’s economic growth and align with the ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda (D33).

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, DFRE.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, DFRE.

Unprecedented Growth in the MICE Industry

The successful bids for 2024 span diverse sectors, including healthcare, technology, logistics, and finance, further showcasing Dubai’s versatility as a host city. Among the most prestigious upcoming events are:

  • 2025 WFNS World Congress of Neurosurgery (4,000 delegates)
  • 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit & Mayor Summit (1,200 delegates)
  • 2025 Pan Arab Radiology Conference (1,500 delegates)
  • 2026 Global Symposium on Health System Research (3,000 delegates)
  • 2026 FIP World Stamp Exhibition (1,000 delegates)
  • 2028 Scientific Assembly of the Committee on Space Research (3,000 delegates)

Corporate and incentive events have also been a cornerstone of Dubai’s success. Significant wins include the 2025 Oppo Guangdong Incentive (4,000 delegates), the 2026 Forever Living Global Rally (12,000 delegates), and the 2026 Emerson Exchange (2,500 delegates).

Driving Economic Impact and Advancing the D33 Agenda

Dubai’s MICE achievements are integral to the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to establish the emirate as one of the world’s top three cities for business and leisure. By attracting a growing number of high-profile events and international delegates, the city is fostering its reputation as a global knowledge hub while contributing to its broader economic objectives.

Dubai Business Events at IMEX 2024.

Dubai Business Events at IMEX 2024.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, remarked:

“Guided by the vision of our city’s leadership, business events continue to play a vital role in bolstering tourism and supporting Dubai’s wider economic priorities. The healthy increase in successful bids in 2024 underscores Dubai’s prominence as a destination that delivers not only world-class business events infrastructure but also memorable experiences for organizers and delegates. Furthermore, it highlights Dubai’s status as a knowledge hub, attracting expertise and innovation from around the globe.”

Collaborative Efforts Pave the Way

Dubai’s success is rooted in the collaborative efforts of DBE and its partners. DBE has consistently showcased the city’s unmatched capabilities by engaging with professionals worldwide at premier trade shows like IMEX Frankfurt, The Meetings Show, and IBTM World. Additionally, the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme has played a pivotal role by mobilizing local subject matter experts to advocate for hosting international events in Dubai.

Strategic alliances with industry-leading bodies such as the BestCities Global Alliance, the International Association of Professional Congress Organizers (IAPCO), and the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) have cemented Dubai’s competitive force in the global MICE landscape.

Infrastructure and Innovation: Key Drivers of Success

Dubai’s cutting-edge infrastructure and commitment to innovation remain key to its MICE industry dominance. From state-of-the-art conference venues like the Dubai World Trade Centre to a world-class transport network connecting the city to over 240 destinations, Dubai offers unmatched convenience and accessibility for event organizers and attendees alike.

The emirate’s reputation for safety, exceptional hospitality, and a rich cultural landscape adds to its allure. Delegates visiting Dubai gain professional opportunities and experience its vibrant blend of tradition and modernity.

A Vision for Sustainable Growth

Dubai strives to create an environmentally responsible MICE sector that is aligned with its sustainability goals. The city embraces green practices in event planning, aligning with global trends to reduce environmental impact while enhancing delegate experiences. These initiatives complement Dubai’s broader vision to build a sustainable future and maintain its competitive edge on the world stage.

Recognition of Excellence

Dubai’s accolades in 2024 underscore its outstanding achievements in the MICE sector. The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) ranked Dubai as the leading city in the Middle East for hosting association meetings. At the same time, Cvent named it the number one destination in the Middle East and Africa in its “Top Meeting Destinations” list.

Looking Ahead

With an ambitious roadmap for 2024 and beyond, Dubai aims to sustain its momentum by leveraging its world-class capabilities and forging new partnerships. As DBE continues to innovate and collaborate, the city is set to attract even more events, delivering transformative economic impact and elevating Dubai’s status as a premier global destination.

Visit Dubai Business Events for more information on the city’s exceptional offerings.

Takeaway: Dubai’s record-breaking 437 business event wins for 2024 mark a significant milestone in the city’s journey to becoming a global business and tourism powerhouse. By championing collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, Dubai continues to redefine excellence in the MICE industry.

 

 

 

Written by: Octavia Koo

 

 

 

 

 

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