World Expo 2030
Staff Writer, Halal Incorp
Riyadh has secured the privilege of hosting the World Expo in 2030, triumphing over challenges posed by South Korea and Italy in the competition for this prestigious global event. The Saudi capital garnered a substantial majority, securing 119 out of 165 votes from member states of the Paris-based Bureau International des Expositions, as revealed through a secret electronic ballot.
The confirmation of Riyadh as the successor host to Osaka in 2025 was announced during the BIE event in Paris. Candidates presented their final Expo progress reports, emphasizing aspects such as hospitality, tourism, and culture in a last-minute effort to sway votes.
The Expo 2030 is anticipated to symbolize the realization of Vision 2030, showcasing the Kingdom’s achievements. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman actively promoted Riyadh’s bid during a visit to Paris in June, participating in an exhibition organized by the Royal Commission for the City of Riyadh, spotlighting Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and cultural depth.
World Expo 2030
French support for Riyadh’s Expo bid grew, with influential figures like Senator Natalie Goulet expressing that hosting the expo in the Saudi capital would be the culmination of Vision 2030. Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan expressed gratitude for the support received and emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to collaborative efforts for a globally inclusive Expo.
As part of its commitment, Saudi Arabia pledged to provide facilities packages totaling $348 million to a pool of 100 eligible countries. The Expo bid gained momentum through the #WhyRiyadh campaign backed by Arab News, featuring support from notable figures across various industries.
World Expo 2030
Princess Haifa Al-Mogrin, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to UNESCO, highlighted the global significance of Riyadh Expo 2030, describing it as a platform accelerating progress on urgent challenges such as health, education, climate, environment, trade, and investment.
The choice of Riyadh as the Expo 2030 location stems from the city’s dynamic energy, ongoing megaprojects emphasizing sustainability and quality of life. The event aims to address these themes, offering sustainable solutions for future cities, including clean mobility and renewable energy.
Saudi Arabia’s Green Riyadh Program plays a pivotal role in raising sustainability standards, aiming to increase green coverage and enhance the city’s livability. With 70% of the Saudi population under 30, the Expo is set to harness the energy and enthusiasm of the youth, contributing to the nation’s goals by 2030.
World Expo 2030
Massive infrastructure developments are expected in Riyadh, including a 70,000-room increase in hotel capacity. A newly developed metro will connect Expo City to the reconstructed King Salman Airport, positioning it as one of the world’s largest aviation hubs. Riyadh Air, the Kingdom’s new airline, will further enhance the capital’s accessibility with flights to 100 countries by 2025.
Ghida Al-Shibl, a member of the Riyadh Expo 2030 team, affirmed the commitment to creating a world-class expo site, tailored to match the national priorities and aspirations of participating countries.