Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is the premier events space in the region. With more than three million annual visitors, 50,000 exhibitors and around 185 countries represented, the sprawling exhibition centre is more than meets the eye, with restaurants, hotels, offices and lounges – but it’s not all for trade shows. There’s plenty of fun events, too.

DWTC plays host to a wide range of live shows throughout the year. Past performers include DJ Tiesto, George Ezra, 30 Seconds to Mars and comedy superstar Dave Chapelle. The expansive, interconnected halls have also welcomed huge international productions, such as Cirque du Soleil. Post-event, visitors can roam around the wider area, which offers a huge number of restaurants, hotels and lounges.

The main Trade Centre campus includes Sheikh Rashid Hall, Maktoum Hall, the Al Mulaqua Ballroom, Sheikh Saeed Halls, Za’abeel Halls and the Trade Centre Arena. DWTC is also the home of Dubai’s first ever skyscraper. Rising 38 storeys, Sheikh Rashid Tower (also referred to as Dubai World Trade Centre) was built in 1979 and remained the tallest building in Dubai for many years.