On October 9, during an interview at Dubai Expo City, we spoke with a representative who shared exciting updates about the site. Dubai has been selected to host both the 2020 World Expo and the 28th UN Climate Change Conference (COP28). The latest master plan is designed to position Dubai as a global hub and business center, specifically targeting companies and investors from around the world, with a keen interest in attracting participants from China.
Spanning an impressive 3.5 square kilometers, the new development plan includes a cutting-edge global headquarters built by the DP World Group, strategically situated next to the world-class Dubai Exhibition Center. DP World is known as a major player in international trade and ranks among the UAE’s leading enterprises. The Dubai Exhibition Center plays a vital role in driving the city’s economy and serves as a primary entry point to Expo City.
Expo City is committed to preserving the architectural character and charm from the 2020 Dubai Expo. Its layout features five designated districts, organized into an efficient grid system that encompasses residential areas, office buildings, lush green spaces, recreational facilities, and essential services such as healthcare, education, sports and fitness centers, along with diverse retail and dining options. This ambitious development is expected to attract around 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals in the coming years.
In a noteworthy development, several global companies and industry leaders, including DP World, Emirates Airline, and Siemens Energy, have established operational bases within Expo City’s world-class free trade zone. Additionally, the Chinese firm Telpo Group, recognized as a leader in global intelligent services and AI solutions, will set up its international headquarters in Expo City, with plans to launch operations in March 2024.
The longstanding relationship between China and the UAE has been highly beneficial. Currently, approximately 220,000 Chinese citizens reside in the UAE, and over 8,000 Chinese companies are actively investing and conducting business there. The Dubai Chamber welcomed 1,560 new Chinese business members in 2023, reflecting an impressive 66.5% year-over-year increase, and another 742 Chinese companies are anticipated to join in the first half of 2024. A recent report from Betterhomes indicates a rising trend of Chinese nationals purchasing residential properties in the UAE, signaling a renewed interest in the market.
Expo City is eager to collaborate with innovative Chinese companies. As a progressive free trade zone, it has launched several initiatives aimed at attracting China’s burgeoning tech sector. A key initiative is the “Urban Lab,” which serves as a city-wide testing ground to experiment with and showcase sustainable urban development technologies and innovative solutions. Expo City aspires to be a commercial hub for Chinese enterprises, supporting the Belt and Road Initiative and acting as a gateway for Chinese businesses looking to access African and other international markets.
