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Dubai’s biggest-ever events venue is almost here,  hosting Gulfood Global and World Health Expo 2026

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Dubai is gearing up for another world-class milestone. Phase 1 of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) expansion is almost complete, and it’s on track to transform the city’s events scene when doors open in early 2026.

Located in Expo City Dubai, the mega venue will soon become the largest purpose-built indoor exhibition and events complex in the region, adding a massive 140,000 square metres of space to Dubai World Trade Centre’s (DWTC) growing portfolio.

The first two events confirmed

Gulfood Global and the World Health Expo 2026 (formerly Arab Health),  two powerhouse global events that will officially christen the new space when it opens next year.

“The expansion reflects Dubai’s ability to deliver international events with precision and scale,” said Mahir Julfar, Executive Vice President at DWTC. 

“We’re ready to welcome the world and ensure every exhibitor and visitor enjoys an exceptional experience.”

Bigger, smarter, and built for the future

Phase 1 of the Dh10 billion project includes 64,000 sqm of permanent exhibition halls and 30,000 sqm of flexible pavilion space, enough to host up to 50,000 visitors a day.

The new pavilions, directly connected to the main halls and central plaza, are designed to handle major international shows like Gulfood and the World Health Expo. Visitors can expect outdoor terraces, food and beverage zones, and activation areas, blending business with Dubai’s signature hospitality.

A seamless journey between venues

Getting there will be a breeze. A citywide transport and mobility plan,  developed with Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police, ensures smooth connections between DWTC and Expo City.

The Dubai Metro Red Line takes visitors straight to the Expo 2020 Station, while a network of 30 express shuttles will connect DWTC and DEC during major events. Inside Expo City, 80 shuttle services will circulate continuously between parking areas and event zones.

Designed for the experience economy

Beyond the scale, DEC is designed for more than just business; it’s built for experience. Expect a festival-style setup during Dubai’s cooler months, complete with open-air plazas, food trucks, and smart mini-markets.

Expo City’s own dining scene adds to the vibe, offering cafes, international restaurants, and al fresco terraces, all within walking distance of the venue. With 5G-ready connectivity, energy-efficient systems, and future-proof infrastructure, DEC aims to redefine how large-scale events feel

As the countdown to 2026 begins, one thing’s certain: the world’s biggest names in food, health, and trade will soon have a spectacular new stage, right here in Dubai.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Entertainment

Emirates Dubai 7s 2026: Tickets on sale as festival returns with bigger family zone

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Emirates Dubai 7s is returning to The Sevens Stadium from November 27 to 29, with tickets now on sale for the three-day sports and entertainment festival.

The 2026 edition will bring together international rugby, amateur sports, live music and family entertainment, with organisers promising a bigger programme than previous years.

The festival attracted more than 88,000 visitors in 2025 and will again take place during the final weekend of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.

Ticket prices

Ticket prices for General Admission and Hospitality have stayed the same for a third consecutive year.

Three-day General Admission tickets cost Dh595 per person, while the three-day Family Pass is Dh1,136 for two adults and two children.

Other ticket options

  • Group pass: Dh446 per person for four or more adults
  • Saturday or Sunday: Dh455
  • Friday: Dh75
  • Under 15s: Free
  • People of Determination + carer: Dh375

Tickets can be purchased through the Emirates Dubai 7s website and app.

Bigger family attractions

Family entertainment will get a major boost this year as the UAE celebrates the Year of the Family.

The festival will feature its biggest-ever Kids’ Zone, including the UAE’s largest inflatable kids’ zone, along with a Ferris wheel and zipline. More attractions are expected to be announced ahead of the event.

Six sports and top rugby action

Alongside elite rugby, visitors can watch or take part in competitions across six sports — rugby, netball, cricket, WODON3 fitness, Rebound padel and Gaelic Football.

Gaelic Football will join the festival for the first time in 2026.

The Sevens Stadium will also host the opening round of the HSBC SVNS Series 2027, bringing the world’s leading rugby sevens players to Dubai.

The WODON3 Elite final will take place on Pitch 1 between HSBC SVNS matches, with competitors potentially performing in front of crowds of up to 20,000.

Music all weekend

Live entertainment will run throughout the festival, with local and international artists performing across three days.

Last year’s line-up included Tinie Tempah, Sean Paul and Fisher, while the 2026 headline acts will be announced later.

For a premium experience, The Sunroom returns with all-inclusive food and drinks, shaded seating, prime sporting views and dedicated access. Packages start from Dh1,925 per person.

With sport, music and family attractions packed into one weekend, Emirates Dubai 7s is gearing up for another big Dubai event.

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Events

Perseids meteor shower in UAE tonight: Best spots to watch as heat hits 45°C

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UAE residents looking for something to do after sunset can turn their eyes to the sky tonight as the Perseids meteor shower makes an appearance.

For the best chance of seeing the celestial display, darker locations away from the bright lights of the cities could be worth the drive. The UAE’s mountainous areas, including Jebel Jais and Jebel Hafeet, are among the cooler options for spending an evening outdoors.

The meteor shower arrives as the country experiences another hot summer day, with temperatures expected to reach 45°C in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Umm Al Quwain.

Where can you watch the shower in the UAE?

The UAE’s mountainous regions can offer more favourable conditions for stargazing because they are farther from urban light pollution.

Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah and Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain are two popular options for those looking to escape the city lights and watch the night sky.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) expects temperatures in mountainous areas to remain comparatively lower, at around 32°C to 38°C.

If you’re planning to watch from a remote location, choose an established and safe viewing area, and check conditions before setting out.

Chances of rain in the east

While the skies may be the main attraction tonight, the weather earlier in the day could be less predictable in parts of eastern UAE.

The NCM forecasts fair to partly cloudy conditions, with the possibility of convective clouds developing over eastern areas during the afternoon.

That could bring rainfall to places such as Fujairah, Kalba and Khor Fakkan.

Sea conditions remain slight

The NCM expects slight sea conditions in both the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.

Anyone planning marine activities should check the latest official forecast before heading out.

So while the UAE remains firmly in summer mode, tonight offers residents a chance to swap city lights for the night sky and look out for the Perseids.

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Business

UAE launches new strategy to reduce reliance on imports

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The UAE has launched Make it in the Emirates 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen local manufacturing, improve supply chain resilience and expand the country’s advanced industrial sector.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the platform reflects the UAE’s vision for a “more resilient and sustainable national industrial model”, with continued investment in industry, artificial intelligence and technology.

In a message shared on X, Sheikh Mohamed said the UAE will continue to build strategic partnerships and strengthen local capabilities to boost global competitiveness.

The initiative comes as the UAE pushes to reduce dependence on global supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

Officials said more than 150 strategic commodities have already been studied, with alternative sourcing plans identified to maintain supply during global disruptions.

A key goal of Make it in the Emirates 2026 is to encourage more local production inside the UAE while attracting industrial investment and advanced manufacturing technologies.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also attended the event in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the growing role of UAE-made products and Emirati talent in shaping the country’s industrial future.

The event has brought together around 1,200 exhibitors across 12 key sectors, including aerospace, defence, energy, pharmaceuticals, mobility and sustainable materials.

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