The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and UK-based event organizer Informa are reportedly considering a joint listing of their global events operations, aiming to unlock value and expand international reach. The move signals growing interest in consolidating premium event platforms in a post-pandemic recovery era.
- DWTC and Informa exploring joint listing of event operations
- Combined revenue projected at $1.2 billion annually
- Enterprise value target of $4.5 billion
- Proposed dual listing on Dubai Financial Market and London Stock Exchange
- Portfolio includes over 75 global events across 40 countries
- Strategic focus on digital infrastructure and emerging markets
The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Informa plc are in advanced discussions to combine their global event portfolios into a single listed entity, according to sources familiar with the matter. The proposed structure would integrate DWTC’s flagship exhibitions — including the Dubai Airshow and the Global Logistics and Supply Chain Expo — with Informa’s high-profile trade shows such as the London International Shipping Week and the Paris International Motor Show. The combined entity is expected to generate over $1.2 billion in annual revenue, with a footprint in more than 40 countries and 75 major events annually. The transaction would mark a strategic pivot for both organizations. DWTC, a government-owned entity under Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, seeks to diversify its revenue beyond real estate and infrastructure into high-margin event management. Meanwhile, Informa, which has been restructuring its business since 2022, aims to strengthen its presence in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions through a deeper local partnership. The combined business could achieve an enterprise value of approximately $4.5 billion, based on pre-transaction valuations. Market participants are closely watching the development, as a successful listing could create a new benchmark for event sector valuations. The joint entity would likely target a dual listing on the Dubai Financial Market and the London Stock Exchange, facilitating access to capital from both regional and global investors. The announcement is expected to trigger a broader reassessment of public valuations for event and exhibition firms, particularly those with hybrid physical-digital models. The move underscores a wider trend of consolidation in the global events industry, where operators are seeking scale and resilience amid shifting demand patterns and geopolitical uncertainties. If finalized, the listing could enable the new company to invest heavily in digital infrastructure, sustainability initiatives, and expansion into emerging markets such as India, Southeast Asia, and Africa.