Exploring the Future of Urban Development Through Dubai Expo City Distinct.

Expo City Dubai’s new master plan, approved by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in October 2024, transforms the Expo 2020 site into a fully integrated urban development of global significance. Here’s a polished overview of what’s planned:

📍 Key Highlights of the Master Plan

1. Five Distinct, Sustainable Districts

Expo Hills (North): Low-density residential area offering serene living.

Expo Fields (South): A healthy living model featuring schools, sports fields, and performance venues.

Expo Business: Dedicated to innovation and enterprise, including the Emirates Group’s aviation innovation hub.

Expo Downtown: Anchored by the iconic Al Wasl dome and the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), expanding up to 180,000 m², plus the soaring mixed-use Terra Tower and Terra Gardens.

Expo Forest: Connecting Expo Valley with Expo City, blending green spaces with recreational, educational, and social facilities in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. 

🏙️ Scale & Capacity

Site Area: Approx. 3.5 km².

Population: Designed to accommodate 35,000+ residents and 40,000 professionals, for a total capacity of around 75,000 people. 

🚆 Connectivity & Transport

Located along Dubai Metro’s Route 2020 Red Line, seamlessly linking to central Dubai, Jebel Ali port, and Al Maktoum International Airport. Plans include further extensions southward. 

Designed as a 15‑minute city, supporting walk ability, biking, and minimal car usage to combat climate conditions. 

🏛️ Business & Exhibition Hub

DP World’s global HQ will relocate to Expo City, capitalizing on proximity to logistics corridors and enhancing trade efficiency. 

The Dubai Exhibition Center will undergo a Dh10 billion expansion, tripling its exhibition capacity to support large-scale global events. 

🌿 Legacy, Sustainability & Urban Design

Over 80% of Expo 2020’s infrastructure and pavilions are retained and repurposed, embedding the event legacy into the city fabric. 

Achieves LEED Gold and WELL Community Platinum status—committed to wellness, biodiversity, net-zero carbon by 2050, and advanced social equity measures. 

🚧 Development Timeline

Several residential zones—including Expo Valley—are already under construction, with handovers expected from 2026 onward. 

Future phases will be implemented gradually and adapted based on evolving urban needs.