Dubai Laying Foundations to Build Expo Site Into UAE First 15-Minute City. Dubai is laying the groundwork for a groundbreaking urban project that will see the transformation of the Expo 2020 site into the UAE’s first 15-minute city. This ambitious endeavor aims to create a sustainable and self-sufficient community where residents can access everything they need—workplaces, schools, parks, and entertainment—within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
Dubai Laying Foundations to Build Expo Site Into UAE First 15-Minute City
The first homes in this visionary development will be handed over in the first quarter of 2026, according to Expo City Dubai authorities. The site, which hosted the world’s fair from October 2021 to March 2022, is being reimagined as a vibrant city where convenience and sustainability are at the forefront.
A Walkable, Connected Community
Expo City Dubai is designed to offer a unique living experience, with residential areas seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric. Construction is already underway, with cranes dotting the skyline near beloved Expo pavilions. The development includes a mix of apartments and villas, all connected by a network of walking and cycling paths, ensuring that residents can move effortlessly within the community.
The apartment buildings, offering homes with one to four bedrooms, will boast views of iconic Expo landmarks such as the Surreal water feature and the monumental Al Wasl Plaza. Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer at Expo City Dubai, highlighted that the area will soon feature a school and hospital, further enhancing the community’s self-sufficiency.
A Hub for Future Development
The Expo City project is just the beginning of a larger vision for Dubai’s future. Al Khatib emphasized that the city is being designed with a human-centered approach, ensuring that everything residents need—whether it’s offices, entertainment, or daily amenities—will be within easy reach.
“The city has a lot to offer in terms of a new way of living and working,” Al Khatib explained. “We will soon be launching the sale of land plots for both commercial and residential use, and there are many major components that will be announced before the end of the year, making this city the core of the new Dubai.”
A Living Legacy of Expo 2020
While the site transitions into a residential hub, Expo City Dubai will continue to host international conferences, concerts, and sports events, ensuring that it remains a lively and dynamic part of the city. Visitors will still have access to popular attractions such as the Terra and Alif pavilions, as well as Al Wasl Plaza, which was a central feature during Expo 2020.
Residential Projects Selling Out Quickly
The demand for properties in this pioneering development has been strong. The first residential project, Mangrove Residences, has already sold out. This development, consisting of 450 units across three buildings, is set for completion by the first quarter of 2026. These residences are centrally located within the Expo area, offering views of the Surreal waterfall and proximity to Al Wasl Plaza.
Adjacent to the Expo site is Expo Valley, a nature-centric residential area featuring 532 units, including townhouses and villas. These properties, which were also quickly sold out, are designed for those who value sustainability and a connection to nature. Prices for these high-end homes ranged from Dh3.4 million to over Dh15 million.
Upcoming Developments and Future Plans
To meet the ongoing demand, Expo City authorities plan to release more plots, including villa plots within Expo Valley. These plots, ranging from 700 to 1,115 square meters and priced above Dh8 million, will allow buyers to fully immerse themselves in the nature reserve experience that Expo Valley offers.
The Expo site will also see the development of commercial and residential properties, with companies like Siemens, DP World, and Terminus Group already committed to operating in the area.
A City Built for the Future
Expo City Dubai is not just about housing—it’s about creating a sustainable and enjoyable urban environment. Plans for the 15-minute city include extensive nature trails, walking and cycling paths, and innovative landscaping designed to enhance air circulation and cool the environment. The “folded earth” concept will ensure that buildings do not obstruct the natural views, allowing residents to fully enjoy the surrounding greenery and water features.
Al Khatib, who has been involved in the Expo project since its inception, reflected on the unique opportunity to build a city from the ground up: “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s been about planning, building, and transitioning from one use to another. I’m looking forward to finishing it—again.”
Conclusion
Dubai transformation of the Expo 2020 site into the UAE’s first 15-minute city is a bold step towards creating a sustainable, human-centered urban environment. With its focus on convenience, connectivity, and community, Expo City Dubai is set to become a model for future urban developments not just in the UAE, but around the world.
