Dallas Convention Center Revamp on Track for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Demolition underway as officials promise billions in economic impact and a vibrant renewal by 2029.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:36am

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a collection of sleek, polished architectural models and construction materials in shades of gray, black, and steel blue, conceptually representing the ongoing transformation of the Dallas convention center.The demolition and reconstruction of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas will reshape the city's skyline and economic landscape.Dallas Today

The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas is undergoing a major demolition and renovation project, with parts of the existing facility remaining open to host events, including serving as the International Broadcast Center for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The new convention center will feature 750,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 105,000-square-foot ballroom, and over 30 acres of surrounding developable land for housing, hotels, retail, and dining.

Why it matters

The convention center revamp is a key part of Dallas' efforts to transform its downtown and attract more major events and economic activity. The project is expected to have a significant economic impact, with over 70 major conventions already booked for 2029 and an estimated $1.9 billion in economic impact.

The details

Demolition is now underway on parts of the existing convention center, with the portion of Hall F that spans the DART and Union Pacific rail lines remaining in place to protect critical infrastructure. The new convention center will feature significantly expanded exhibit and ballroom space, as well as over 30 acres of surrounding developable land for mixed-use development including housing, hotels, retail, and dining.

  • Demolition on the convention center began earlier this year.
  • The convention center will continue to host events, including serving as the International Broadcast Center for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through August.
  • The new convention center is expected to be completed by 2029.

The players

Jesse Moreno

Dallas Mayor Pro Tem.

Angela Daniel

Spokesperson for Inspire Dallas, a local organization involved in the project.

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What they’re saying

“You hear construction, and I hear 'ching-ching' dollar signs.”

— Jesse Moreno, Dallas Mayor Pro Tem

“The new building will be surrounded by housing, entertainment and greenspace that will really activate the community and connect this end of downtown.”

— Angela Daniel, Spokesperson, Inspire Dallas

What’s next

The convention center demolition and renovation project is expected to continue through 2029, with the facility remaining partially operational throughout construction to host major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The takeaway

Dallas is making a significant investment in transforming its downtown convention center into a modern, expanded facility that will serve as a hub for major events and economic activity. The project is part of the city's broader efforts to revitalize its urban core and attract more visitors and businesses.