Everything you need to know about Riyadh Expo 2030

Riyadh comes to the fore and is ready to host the prestigious World Expo event in 2030, gaining international recognition as a potential host city.

The Kingdom's capital city faces competition from other international cities such as Busan (South Korea) and Rome (Italy) to host this event. The internationally acclaimed event is set to run for just six months from October 1, 2030, until the end of March 2031.

In June 2023, a high-level Saudi delegation, led by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, visited the International Bureau of Exhibitions (BIE) in Paris to present the inspiring Saudi proposal entitled 'Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow.'

The proposed plan that would see Riyadh host the World Expo 2030 discusses the challenges the world will face in 2050, with a projected population of 10 billion, emphasising the need for innovative solutions, alongside the desire to safeguard the environment through future-proofing and acknowledging the continued growth of digital access via the Metaverse.

The Kingdom, as the 18th largest economy and fastest-growing economy among G20 countries in 2022, allocated a budget of $7.8 billion to host Expo Riyadh 2030. Throughout the six months of Expo 2030, it is estimated that 40 million visitors will tour the Expo site.

The Expo 2030 site will be shaped like a globe, with pavilions from 226 countries distributed around a natural valley, symbolising the Kingdom's role in fostering global cooperation. Saudi will offer financial support to countries invited to exhibit: in order to build pavilions, create events and employ staff, should it be needed.

Although the event is still seven years away, the Kingdom plans to complete all preparations ahead of schedule, aiming for the site to be ready by 2028.

Riyadh was chosen as a host city due to its significant contribution to the Kingdom's non-oil economy, its vibrant and hospitable population, and its vision that aligns with Expo 2030's focus on sustainability, livability, mobility, and prosperity. Riyadh boasts excellent infrastructure and high-end services to cater to residents, visitors, and businesses.

Committed to achieving and exceeding sustainability standards and supporting environmental awareness, Riyadh Expo 2030 aims to be the first World Expo with zero carbon dioxide emissions, relying on clean solar energy as its primary power source. Various programs will be implemented to preserve and encourage biodiversity, prevent food waste, and ensure efficient recycling of waste and green waste. Additionally, the well-being and rights of Expo workers, both direct and subcontracted, will be prioritised.

Saudi Arabia's financial investments are expected to reach $3.3 trillion by the end of 2030, with 30% directed toward developing Riyadh and $7.8 billion invested in Expo Riyadh 2030.

The results of the host city selection for Expo 2030 will be announced during the 171st General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions at the end of November 2023, following voting by member states.

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