Why Dubai?

By Dubai Business Events, Dubai Convention Bureau


Did you know that…?

  • Dubai offers visa on arrival to citizens of more than 80 countries, making delegate access straightforward for truly global events.

  • Dubai International Airport is the world’s busiest international hub, connecting the city to more than 270 destinations, while the Emirate consistently ranks among the top smart cities globally for digital services and ease of movement.

  • Delegates also benefit from a city where major conference venues, hotels, airports, and attractions are connected by an integrated transport and infrastructure network.

Help for international associations?

Dubai Business Events supports international associations at every stage of the journey, from early feasibility and bidding through to delivery and legacy planning. This includes strategic guidance, destination insights, venue and partner introductions, and alignment with local experts, institutions, and government stakeholders to strengthen programme relevance and long-term impact.

Where to meet?

Dubai offers a diverse portfolio of world class venues suited to events of every scale. Flagship facilities include Dubai World Trade Centre, one of the region’s largest and most established convention venues, Expo City Dubai with its purpose-built exhibition and conference spaces, and the Dubai Exhibition Centre. Many venues benefit from direct metro access and proximity to hotels and attractions.

Where to stay?

Dubai is home to more than 800 hotels and hotel apartments, offering over 150,000 rooms across all categories. This includes a strong concentration of five- and four-star hotels alongside high quality mid-range and lifestyle options, many located within walking distance or a short transfer from major venues. Major new hotels include Ciel Hotel Marina – the world’s tallest hotel, and the Mandarin Oriental Downtown hotel.

How to reach Dubai?

Dubai is served by Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, with extensive global connectivity through Emirates, flydubai, and a wide range of international carriers. Frequent direct flights from major cities across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas and Australasia make travel efficient for delegates and speakers alike, with a third of the world’s population within a four-hour flight of Dubai, and two-thirds within eight hours.

Somewhere special: personal recommendations/insider tips?

Dubai offers distinctive cultural experiences that bring the city’s heritage to life. The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the Al Shindagha Historic District along Dubai Creek offer delegates an authentic perspective on the Emirate’s trading roots, craftsmanship, and storytelling traditions. These immersive settings provide meaningful networking moments while showcasing Dubai’s growing cultural depth alongside its modern skyline.

Whom to contact?

Dubai Business Events is the official convention bureau for the city and the first point of contact for international associations considering Dubai.

Contact Karina Lance: klance@dubaidet.ae.

This text is part of UIA's World of Associations
Issue #22 – February 2026