In a big move for the UAE’s growing real estate market, Aldar properties—a leading real estate company from Abu Dhabi—and Expo City Dubai have announced a joint project. They’re planning a mixed-use development worth 1.75 billion dirhams, located near Al Maktoum International Airport and the Dubai Exhibition Centre. This development is part of Dubai’s larger plan to solidify its position as a global hub for business and lifestyle.
The project will feature six buildings, becoming the heart of Expo City Dubai’s new master plan. This plan is aimed at boosting the area’s reputation as a go-to spot for business and living. These new buildings will be right next to the Dubai Exhibition Centre, which is currently expanding with a 10 billion dirham investment. By 2031, the exhibition space will jump from 58,000 square meters to 180,000 square meters, making it the biggest indoor venue for events in the region.
Aldar and Expo City Dubai are going 50:50 on this joint venture, which will handle the construction and management of the development. The project will cover 103,000 square meters of residential, commercial, and retail space. After it’s built, Aldar will take care of asset management to ensure the project runs smoothly and thrives over the long haul.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, a key figure in Dubai, who also chairs Expo City Dubai.
Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai, said this joint venture highlights Expo City’s dedication to innovation and sustainable growth. She called it the first of many partnerships, leveraging Aldar’s experience in top-tier real estate development while keeping the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai alive. Together, they aim to turn Expo City into a leading international business district.
She added that the partnership is a major boost to Expo City’s master plan, creating a space where businesses and people can thrive. The plan includes high-quality residential, commercial, and retail areas that complement world-class conference and exhibition spaces.
Expo City is quickly becoming one of the region’s fastest-growing areas, thanks to its prime location and fast-paced infrastructure development. Jassem Saleh Busaibe, CEO of Aldar, emphasized that this partnership is built on shared values and a long-term vision. “Expo City is a key partner in our expansion in Dubai,” he noted.
Expo City Dubai is envisioned as a model for sustainable urban living, and the new development will reflect this. Both Aldar and Expo City are committed to net-zero goals, and the project will incorporate eco-friendly designs. The focus will be on green spaces, better mobility, and balanced urban growth, all aligned with Expo City’s vision of a smart and sustainable city.
This project is another big step for Aldar in Dubai, adding to its already expanding portfolio of residential, commercial, and logistics developments. Aldar recently partnered with Dubai Holding to create luxury residential communities and is working with DP World on a large logistics park. On top of that, they’re planning to build a high-end office building near Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), strengthening their presence in the city.
The strategic partnership of Aldar and Expo City Dubai will create a tremendous transformation in the Dubai real estate market and will directly affect the property prices in Dubai.This collaboration between Aldar and Expo City Dubai is a great example of how strategic partnerships can shape a city’s future. The project will transform the Expo City area into a bustling hub for living, working, and shopping—all while keeping sustainability and innovation front and center. It’s a strong reminder of Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global leader in business, lifestyle, and urban development.
Additionally, the partnership is set to speed up Expo City’s goal of creating a world-class business district, further solidifying Dubai as a top destination for international exhibitions and events. With its prime location near key transport hubs like Al Maktoum International Airport, this project will play a major role in driving Dubai’s growth and global standing.
