Enhancing value creation through stakeholder engagement in sustainable mega‐events: The case of Expo 2020 Dubai legacy

Abstract Value creation by mega‐events is still an underdeveloped issue. Through their legacy, mega‐events can create long‐term value for the local community hosting the event. In determining the importance of practices for increasing value creation, stakeholder engagement is growing in defining mega‐events features and possible legacies. The study aims to understand how stakeholder engagement can enhance value creation through sustainable events legacy after mega‐events. In doing so, the research analyses the practices and the processes of stakeholder engagement adopted by Expo 2020 Dubai. This unique case study presents an extensive range of stakeholder engagement practices that enhanced the value co‐creation of a mega‐event legacy. Following the three phases of a mega‐event development (pre–during–post), the stakeholder engagement tools were adapted to meet accountability needs and stakeholders’ claims.