Dubai solidified its position as a leading global business events hub in 2024, securing a record 437 conferences, congresses, and incentive programmes.
This represents a 20 per cent year-on-year increase, driven by Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city’s official convention bureau.
These events are expected to attract over 210,000 delegates to Dubai, boosting the city’s tourism sector and contributing significantly to the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
Notable congress wins include the 2025 WFNS World Congress of Neurosurgery (4,000 delegates); 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit & Mayor Summit (1,200 delegates); and 2026 Global Symposium on Health System Research, with 3,000 delegates.
The city will also welcome corporate and incentive event groups, such as the 2025 Oppo Guangdong Incentive (4,000 delegates); 2025 Loyal Connect Global (3,000 delegates); and 2026 Forever Living Global Rally (12,000 delegates).
In further support of growing Dubai’s business events landscape and under its strategic remit, DBE will continue to engage with meetings industry professionals tradeshows including IMEX Frankfurt and IBTM World, as well as through a year-round calendar of sales missions, study missions, and site inspections.
Other key initiatives included the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme, as well as partnerships with key industry bodies including the BestCities Global Alliance, International Association of Professional Congress Organizers, Professional Convention Management Association; and International Congress and Convention Association.
Cook takes over from Arna Wahl-Davies, who spent 4.5 years in the role.
