Dubai south (expo city): from expo 2020 legacy to real estate boom

Have you ever wondered how Expo 2020 is still making waves in Dubai today? The Expo 2020‍ event may have ended, but its impact lives on in Expo City Dubai, a place where you can live, work, and run your businesses all in one place. Today, it’s part of Dubai South, which is a fast-growing district where the city’s plans meet your daily life. The area is on track to become a global hub for business, trade, and community living. With the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan in motion, Dubai South is playing a leading role in Dubai’s next big chapter.

So, why should you be paying attention to Dubai South? Let’s find out.

Location and Connectivity

Here’s the thing that you’ll love about how connected Dubai South is. Expo City is situated within Dubai South and connects the emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It’s located near Al Maktoum International Airport, and you can hop onto Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road or Emirates Road for a smooth drive. The drive to Downtown Dubai takes about 40 minutes, while Abu Dhabi is around 70 minutes away.

The Expo 2020 metro station on the Red Line is just minutes from the city centre, and public transportation, such as the F55 route, links the metro to the airport. Getting around is easy, whether you live here or are just visiting. Being between two major cities also makes it a perfect hub for business and travel.

A Transformative Urban Legacy

Dubai South started as a huge 145-square-kilometre plan and was first called Dubai World Central. The idea was to build a city with aviation, logistics, and modern communities all in one place so you can live, work, and enjoy everything nearby. Expo 2020 gave it a big push. Over 24 million visitors came and saw how Dubai can create massive projects successfully, which shows the potential of this area.

After Expo 2020, the site became Expo City Dubai and now follows the Dubai 2040 plan and Economic Agenda 2033. These plans focus on making Dubai one of the best places to live, work, and grow your business. Over 80% of the Expo 2020 buildings were reused, and more than 120 earned LEED certification, which shows Dubai’s clear focus on sustainability. The goal is simple. You get a city that grows while protecting the environment and gives your investment long-term value.

The Engine of Economic Growth

Dubai South serves as a key hub for economic growth and expansion. Its location close to Al Maktoum Airport and Jebel Ali Port gives businesses quick and easy access to global markets. Businesses can easily move goods and manage logistics across global routes from this central point. The district is a Free Zone, so you can have 100% foreign ownership and full control of your assets. This makes it attractive to international investors and corporations. Many international companies have set up offices and warehouses here due to easy access to global trade routes.

Dubai South also hosts international conferences and business events, which show how the area is a player in trade and innovation. The ongoing infrastructure growth adds value to the entire Dubai economy, which encourages foreign and local investment. In short, Dubai South is one of the places that adds value to Dubai’s economy and attracts investment.

A Real Estate Boom

Dubai South is one of the most active real estate markets in the region. Prices are competitive, and the area has strong long-term growth potential. Experts say property values are set to rise steadily toward 2030 as more projects finish and more people move in.

You’ll find everything from apartments to villas and townhouses. Units range from 374 square feet to 8,755 square feet. Projects like Emaar South and Azizi Venice are very popular, and they offer parks, swimming pools, and shared spaces that make day-to-day living convenient and fun. 

Here is a quick snapshot of what you might expect to pay. Keep in mind, prices change depending on the project and location:

The best part is compared to central Dubai, you get more value for your money here. With new schools, shopping, and entertainment coming up, people will find it a very practical place for balanced living.

The Al Maktoum Airport Expansion

Dubai South is growing fast, and a big reason is the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport. When it’s ready, it will become one of the world’s largest airports and cost around AED 128 billion. It will handle about 260 million passengers every year. You will also benefit from the city being built around the airport. It will have homes, schools, hotels, and businesses all close by. Soon, all passenger flights from Dubai International Airport will move here, making Dubai South the main aviation hub in Dubai.

The airport expansion has already pushed up property prices and rents in nearby communities. More people and businesses moving here means more jobs and opportunities for you.

Sustainable and Healthy Lifestyle

Dubai South combines active living with sustainability. Families can enjoy parks, walking paths, and cycling routes, while shops, schools, and other essentials are always close by. Some streets limit cars to keep families and children safe, and the community aims for WELL Community Gold certification to focus on your health and comfort. You can live, work, and enjoy life here while the city grows around you, feeling at home from day one.

Conclusion

Dubai South represents a major shift in how cities grow and function. It connects homes, offices, and essential services in one complete environment. The area reflects Dubai’s clear focus on creating a balanced and forward-looking urban model. It supports economic progress and quality of life equally. All the development happening now means Dubai South will keep growing and offer more opportunities for you to live, work, and invest. It’s already become a clear example of how Dubai builds cities that put people first while advancing.

If you are exploring opportunities in Dubai South, our team can help find the property that fits your goals. Contact us today to start your investment journey.

Related Blog: Top 10 Communities in Dubai in 2025