Big 5 Global, the largest construction and urban development event in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), is set to return to Dubai World Trade Centre from November 24 – 27 for its 46th edition.

The event is expected to gather more than 2,800 exhibitors and welcome over 85,000 professionals from across the global construction value chain, from planning and design to operations.

Big 5 Global comes as the Middle East and Africa account for $7 trillion in pre-construction projects, driven by large-scale urban development programmes and national visions such as We the UAE 2031 and Saudi Vision 2030.

“The global construction sector is at a tipping point,” said Josine Heijmans, Senior Vice President, Construction at dmg events. 

“The scale of urban development underway in the MEASA region is historic, but the pressure to deliver is just as significant. Big 5 Global provides direct access to active projects, key stakeholders and insights, enabling the sector to navigate complexity with clarity.”

This year’s edition will feature nine specialised events, highlighting shifts in construction trends and innovation. Companies from more than 20 countries, including Germany, Italy, China, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and the UK, are confirmed to participate.

Big 5 Global continues to serve as a key platform for collaboration, networking, and shaping the future of construction in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

The Hero Dubai Desert Classic isn’t just about world-class golf anymore; it’s about shaping a greener future.

In partnership with Deloitte, the tournament has launched the Green Incubator Challenge, a first-of-its-kind global call for ideas that could transform how sports and entertainment events tackle climate change.

The challenge is open to entrepreneurs, start-ups, students, and companies worldwide. Organisers say they’re looking for both fresh concepts and ready-to-deploy solutions that can make events more sustainable.

And here’s the big prize: the winning idea will be rolled out at the 2027 DP World Tour and Rolex Series tournament — giving it a global platform.

To help participants succeed, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic team and Deloitte will provide expert mentoring, guidance, and evaluation, ensuring that the solutions are not only bold but also practical and scalable.

“Through this challenge, we aim to identify visionary ideas that will shape the future of sustainable events globally,” said Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of Hero Dubai Desert Classic.

The initiative is also part of the DP World Tour’s Green Drive programme, which is committed to achieving net-zero carbon by 2040.

Key Dates 

• November 18 – Shortlist announced
• December 19 – Three finalists revealed
• 2026 Tournament – Final pitches to expert judges

With this challenge, Dubai is sending a clear message: the future of global events must be sustainable, and innovation starts here.

To register for the challenge, visit https://dubaidesertclassic.com

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has confirmed that more than 260 Chinese exhibitors will take part in the Water, Energy and Environment Technology Exhibition (WETEX) 2025, marking the largest Chinese presence in the event’s history.

The exhibitors will showcase their latest innovations in a dedicated pavilion covering 2,800 square metres at Dubai World Trade Centre from September 30 to October 2.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA and Founder and Chairman of WETEX, said the milestone reflects the strong strategic partnership between the UAE and China, noting that bilateral trade reached $102 billion in 2024, up 7 per cent from the previous year.

“Chinese companies are key partners in the fields of clean energy, water and technology. Their growing presence at WETEX strengthens the exhibition’s role as a global platform for sustainability and innovation, while supporting the UAE’s Net Zero Strategy 2050,” Al Tayer said.

David Wang, Chairman of MIE Group, which is organising the Chinese pavilion, added: “For Chinese enterprises, WETEX is not just a trade show,  it’s a strategic entry point into the MENA market. The event helps our exhibitors connect with the right partners and align with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.”

Organised by DEWA, WETEX is now in its 27th year and continues to serve as a hub for technology, investment and knowledge exchange in the fields of clean energy, water, and environmental solutions.

Dates: September 30 – October 2

Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre

For more information, visit www.wetex.ae