UAE-based Khansaheb Civil Engineering has been named the main contractor for Phase One of the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) expansion project at Expo City Dubai.

This phase, set for completion by 2026, will expand the DEC’s capacity to 140,000 sq m, nearly 2.5 times its current size of 58,000 sq m.

Khansaheb’s scope of work includes a 34,000-sq-m South Hall and 30,000-sq-m North Hall expansion, including steel-frame superstructures, composite cladding, MEP installations, and seamless integration with the existing exhibition space and systems.

Movable partitions, meeting rooms, and back-of-house areas will provide functional, flexible event spaces. The project follows a pre-construction period during which Khansaheb collaborated with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to ensure effective planning, buildability, and cost management.

Site works are now well under way with the substructure works and first elements of structural steel to the North and South Halls progressing well.

DWTC Vice President (Real Estate Development) Amer Al Farsi said: “The expansion of DEC marks a significant milestone in strengthening Dubai’s global leadership in the events and exhibitions industry.

“This landmark development reflects our commitment to creating an exceptional venue that will elevate the city’s standing as a world-class destination for business and events.”

The entire development is expected to be completed in 2031.