In a Twitter video titled ‘Riyadh, ready to welcome the world in Expo 2030,’ Saudi Arabia reveals its preparations to host over 120 million visitors for Expo 2030. The 39-second clip showcases Riyadh’s evolving cityscape, highlighting the nation’s journey toward becoming a modern metropolis.
At the core of Expo 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable growth, a central theme emphasized if the kingdom wins the bid. The event is hailed as the “most connected exhibition ever,” with Riyadh Air as the partner company, ensuring seamless travel for visitors worldwide. An ambitious goal is transporting visitors from the airport to the site in just five minutes, offering unparalleled convenience.
Saudi Arabia’s $7.8 billion commitment to Riyadh Expo 2030 energizes broader Riyadh investments. The expo, happening from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031, with the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,” enjoys convenient proximity to the advancing King Salman International Airport.
Competition to host the prestigious event is fierce, with Busan, South Korea, Rome, and Odesa in Ukraine vying for the opportunity. The final decision will be announced in November.
In June, Saudi Arabia unveiled the master plan for Riyadh Expo 2030 during an official reception in Paris, attended by delegates from 179 Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) member countries. The exhibition site will feature 226 pavilions, symbolizing the kingdom’s role in fostering global cooperation. Clean energy from solar power will power the site, adhering to high resource efficiency standards. Additionally, organizers actively work on strategies to enhance biodiversity, minimize food waste, and establish green waste management and recycling practices.
However, Saudi Arabia is not the inaugural GCC nation to host the World Expo. In 2021, Dubai achieved the distinction of being the first city to host a World Expo in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region. This marked the first World Expo held in these areas in 170 years.
Despite the initial delay due to the onset of Covid-19, Expo 2020 Dubai persevered and retained its title. The six-month-long event successfully took place, attracting more than 24 million visitors from October 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022.
