DXB LIVE delivered the end-to-end development of the COP28 Green Zone at Expo City Dubai on behalf of Masdar, transforming more than 26,000 sqm of open land into a fully operational engagement hub for one of the world’s most significant climate summits. DXB LIVE executed a turnkey solution encompassing infrastructure, temporary venues, MEP, approvals, sponsor operations, and on-site management.
Key Information
Client:
Masdar
Event:
COP28 Green Zone
Venue:
Expo City Dubai
scale:
26,000+ sqm
Objectives & Vision
The Green Zone was envisioned as a climate-forward engagement hub that would reflect the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. DXB LIVE’s mandate was to convert unbuilt areas of Expo City Dubai into vibrant, flexible exhibition and programming spaces for global sponsors and showcase partners, while adhering to strict environmental, logistical, and timeline requirements.
The Concept
DXB LIVE’s approach placed sustainability and flexibility at the core of the design. Using temporary structures, modular revolution tents and recycled materials, we created exhibition hubs that could flex to partner needs while maintaining a consistent thematic identity. Each zone included spaces for networking, speaker sessions, and sponsor showcases. Architectural elements and branded façades were used as storytelling tools, reinforcing climate narratives and partner messaging throughout the Green Zone. To support efficient delivery and coordination at scale, a custom digital portal was developed to manage contractor access, space allocation, and real-time site operations.
From Plan to Reality
DXB LIVE delivered this complex project through extensive planning, technical precision, and large-scale coordination. Over 400 skilled team members were mobilised, scaffold-based leveling systems were implemented to overcome uneven terrain, and fast-tracked regulatory approvals through close coordination with Dubai Civil Defence and Dubai Expo City authorities. Site-specific challenges including elevation shifts of over two metres were resolved through custom engineering solutions. The entire space was delivered two weeks ahead of opening, giving valuable time for fit-out and activation.
Success Highlights
Delivered a fully operational Green Zone spanning 26,000+ sqm
Mobilised over 400 personnel to execute a complex, multi-stakeholder project
Integrated modular architecture and sustainability-led practices across the site
Achieved seamless coordination between sponsors, partners, and authorities
Completed infrastructure delivery two weeks ahead of schedule
Supported high-volume public engagement throughout COP28
Established a new regional benchmark for sustainable, large-scale event environments
Quick Facts
26,000+ sqm Green Zone delivered at Expo City Dubai
400+ team members mobilised
Infrastructure completed 2 weeks ahead of opening
Engineered solutions for 2m+ elevation shifts
Sustainability-first delivery using modular architecture