Dubai Business Events: Accelerating the City’s Global Standing in Business Tourism

A Thriving Business Events Ecosystem

Dubai Business Events (DBE), the official convention bureau of Dubai, has been instrumental in propelling the city’s business events ecosystem forward. Amidst ambitious economic goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, DBE secured an impressive 249 successful bids in the first half of 2025. These bids will facilitate major congresses and incentive programs from 2025 through to 2029, reflecting a 29% increase in submissions compared to the previous year. With a total of 391 bids submitted so far, the impressive conversion rate of 64%—up from 58% in the same period last year—demonstrates a robust trending momentum for Dubai as a premier destination for international business gatherings.

Record-High Delegate Numbers

The confirmed wins are expected to draw approximately 127,087 delegates, representing a 35% rise in attendance year-on-year. This surge highlights Dubai’s emerging role as a vital hub for international business events and significantly contributes to strengthening the emirate’s knowledge economy. The upward trend in delegate numbers corroborates the city’s compelling global proposition as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).

Aligning with Ambitious Economic Goals

The successful bids secured by DBE align closely with the objectives set forth in the D33 economic vision. Dubai aims to double its economy by 2033 and secure its place among the world’s top three cities to visit, live, and work. The influx of international conferences and congresses strengthens relationships across various sectors and enhances Dubai’s competitiveness in the global market.

Strategic Collaborations for Success

The remarkable achievements of DBE are rooted in extensive collaboration with stakeholders and industry partners. The Al Safeer Congress Ambassadors program, comprising UAE-based thought leaders and industry representatives, plays a pivotal role in attracting high-profile international business events to Dubai. Working alongside the Dubai Association Centre, this initiative has significantly bolstered bid development and success through effective advocacy and engagement.

Expert Insights from Leadership

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), emphasizes the importance of these accomplishments, attributing them to a collaborative approach and innovative strategies. He stated that the diversity of events booked this year affirms Dubai’s high-standard infrastructure, accessibility, and market insights. The commitment to delivering exceptional value to event organizers and delegates underscores Dubai’s aspiration for leadership in the global business events landscape.

Active Global Engagement

DBE’s proactive engagement in international markets has been critical for its success. The bureau conducted five sales missions across various regions, including Asia (China, Japan, South Korea, and India) as well as Europe (France and Belgium) and North America. These initiatives, along with participation in key trade shows like IMEX Frankfurt, have kept Dubai at the forefront of global event organizers’ minds and piqued the interest of decision-makers worldwide.

International Accolades Reinforcing Reputation

In a display of Dubai’s rising global stature, the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) recently ranked the city number one globally for the highest attendee count per association meeting. Furthermore, Dubai retained its top spot in the Middle East and Africa for hosting the most association meetings. Similarly, Cvent recognized Dubai as a leading destination among the Top 25 Meeting Destinations in the region, further solidifying its standing as a versatile choice for international events.

Diverse Event Segment Success

Dubai’s versatility as a business destination is reflected in its achievements across various segments, including corporate, incentive, and association events. Noteworthy upcoming events include the 2029 edition of Sibos, expected to attract around 12,000 delegates, and the 2026 World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ISUOG), set to host 2,000 delegates. In the corporate incentive space, events like the Herbalife Multiple Market Incentive (2,400 delegates) and Google’s flagship conferences are set to elevate Dubai’s profile even further.

Ongoing Engagement and Strategic Participation

DBE remains committed to collaborating closely with hotels, venues, and service providers to sustain its momentum. The bureau facilitates study missions and partakes in international events like IMEX Frankfurt, allowing stakeholders to experience Dubai’s vibrant business events infrastructure firsthand. Throughout the rest of the year, DBE will continue to be involved in key strategic trade shows, including Epex, IMEX Las Vegas, and IBTM Barcelona, as part of a focused effort to further enhance Dubai’s positioning in the business events realm.

Conclusion: An Ongoing Narrative of Growth

The developments in Dubai’s business events sector mirror the city’s larger ambitions. The unwavering commitment to fostering partnerships and pursuing excellence positions Dubai not only as a compelling destination for business tourism but also as a global leader in the MICE industry. With a promising pipeline of events through 2029, the future looks exceptionally bright for Dubai’s role in shaping the international business landscape.