Dubai Welcomes New Skyscraper
The Driving Force Behind Dubai’s Exhibition Sector
The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is at the forefront of advancing the exhibition sector not only within the emirate but across the broader region. Recent statistics reveal that the center generated AED 13 billion in economic impact for the year 2022, prompting an exploration into the strategic initiatives and influences of this vibrant venue and organizer.
In a recent discussion with Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC, the conversation began by addressing how the organization quantifies the wider economic impact of its events on Dubai’s GDP and regional growth.
Global Rankings and Economic Leadership
Dubai has achieved first-place rankings globally across various sectors, including information and communications technology (ICT), creative industries, life sciences, consumer goods, financial services, and industrial equipment. LohMirmand highlights notable progress in emerging sectors like Artificial Intelligence and FinTech, showcasing Dubai’s adaptability to technological advancements.
“Notably, Dubai led in emerging categories such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and FinTech,” she remarked, underscoring the city’s commitment to innovation.
Multinational Headquarters and Foreign Direct Investment
As a preferred destination for multinational headquarters, Dubai recently secured the top global ranking for foreign direct investment (FDI) projects related to HQs. The city witnessed a 60% increase in such projects, escalating from 20 in the first half of 2024 to 32 in the first half of 2025. The correlation between incoming investments and event-driven demand is evident.
The success of DWTC’s events has stimulated significant developments, including a $2.72 billion expansion of the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City, which is poised to become the world’s largest purpose-built indoor venue. This expansion reflects ongoing demand for large-scale events.
Enabling Knowledge and Technology Transfer
LohMirmand emphasizes the critical role that events play in facilitating knowledge and technology transfer. These gatherings offer businesses and government entities invaluable exposure to emerging technologies and talent essential for enhancing global competitiveness. “All these business outcomes directly contribute towards the Dubai Economic D33 Agenda,” she stated, referring to the ambitious plan to double the economy by 2033 and establish Dubai among the top three urban economies worldwide.
Transforming GITEX into a Global Platform
GITEX, recognized as the world’s largest startup and investor connector event, recently unfolded at DWTC. Over the past 45 years, it has transformed from a regional technology exhibition into a global platform. LohMirmand attributed this transformation to positioning GITEX as not just an event but as a significant platform for connecting and expanding tech ecosystems worldwide.
She elaborated, “We brought together ecosystems from advanced and rising tech economies—bridging connections where innovation is created in one country, funded by another, and scaled across borders.” This strategy has led to GITEX expanding into 13 cities and countries within three years, establishing itself as the leading global tech event brand.
Driving Investment and Economic Impact
LohMirmand noted that GITEX’s expansion is not simply about scale. The primary focus is on delivering valuable outcomes for each host country, such as fostering foreign direct investment, enhancing trade relationships, and boosting GDP contributions. The extensive network that DWTC has cultivated positions it as one of the fastest-growing international event organizers.
Calling GITEX a “geopolitical tool” and an “instrument of soft power,” LohMirmand pointed to the event’s role in the global arena, especially as AI becomes increasingly integral to diplomacy.
Empowering Emerging Ecosystems
One of DWTC’s significant initiatives, GITEX North Star, launched in 2016, has notably transformed the regional startup and investment landscape. LohMirmand shared that at its inception, the region’s venture capital and startup ecosystem was in its infancy. Today, North Star has evolved into the largest startup event network worldwide, convening over 8,300 startups and 4,000 global investors, managing more than $1 trillion in assets.
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, LohMirmand stated, “Integrating underrepresented ecosystems is vital for startups to thrive, scale, and contribute meaningfully to advancing technologies that shape future industries.”
Expanding Global Reach
GITEX now spans continents, with a presence in cities from Berlin to Singapore to Lagos. LohMirmand explained that their market expansion strategy is informed by the governments, talent, and technological ambitions of each host country. “We expand where governments prioritize technology as a pillar of growth,” she noted, remarking on how their initiatives act as accelerators for those agendas.
This strategic approach empowers local startups, investors, and industries by providing access to a broader global network.
Future Opportunities with Dubai Exhibition Centre
LohMirmand expressed confidence that relocating GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star to the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City would unlock new opportunities for exhibitors, attendees, and the city’s technological agenda. The extensive facilities, featuring 2.2 million square feet of exhibition space, are strategically situated close to major transport hubs, enhancing accessibility for participants.
The Dubai Exhibition Centre contributes to advancing the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, focusing on amplifying capacity for sectors critical to future advancements, including AI and research and development.
Adapting to Change in a Rapidly Evolving Environment
Looking ahead, LohMirmand indicates that GITEX 2026 is set to take place later in December, aligning with Dubai’s peak tourism season.
When asked about her advice for potential organizers and exhibitors, LohMirmand urged, “Lead with ambition. Dubai is a city that thrives on openness of ideas and rewards those who think big.” She emphasized that the city offers world-class infrastructure and a pro-business regulatory environment conducive to success.
As Dubai continues to navigate through fast-paced technological changes and geopolitical shifts, LohMirmand underscores the need for resilience. “The winds of change are constant, and they don’t always move in the same direction,” she cautioned, stressing the importance of agility in adapting to evolving circumstances.
Published on 1762370498 • Category: Business