Following the successful hosting of major global gatherings such as Expo 2020 Dubai and the United Nations 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) in 2023, Expo City Dubai has been selected to host the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit (2025APCS) and Mayors’ Forum. This event, renowned as one of the world’s largest and most inclusive assemblies of mayors, city leaders, and business figures, marks the first time it will take place in the Middle East.
An initiative of Brisbane City Council, delivered by Expo City Dubai and with programme and event advisory from Expo Dubai Group, the event is scheduled to be held at the Dubai Exhibition Centre from 27 to 29 October 2025. This event will bridge the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia with the broader Asia Pacific region. It aims to draw a global network comprising leaders deeply involved in shaping the cities of tomorrow. The summit will emphasise facilitating business ventures and investment prospects in sustainable development and urbanisation.
Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, said, "Expo City Dubai is proud to have been selected from a competitive bid of global cities to host the 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit. We draw upon a decade of key insights and lived experience, from the successful World Exhibition that was Expo 2020 Dubai, delivered with 192 nations, to hosting COP28, to our urban development journey that has seen us transform into a city of opportunity and knowledge creation and exchange."
With a legacy spanning 28 years, APCS has built a distinguished alumni network of over 600 cities, making it a prestigious event for the Asia Pacific region that fosters economic growth and enhances collaboration among cities. Founded by Brisbane City Council in 1996, APCS is held biennially, alternating between Brisbane and various international locations. The 2023APCS held in Brisbane, Australia, showcased AUD 2.3 billion (approximately Dhs 5.6 billion) worth of city projects to delegates, drawing over 1,000 participants from 171 cities. This included 118 mayors and deputy mayors, 140 young professionals, and featured 180 speakers and 78 exhibitors across a dynamic three-day event.
The 2025 edition of APCS builds upon Expo City's first Sustainable Cities in Action Forum held in 2024. The forum showcased innovations, solutions, and discussions aimed at driving positive urban development across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.