The selection of Riyadh to host the 2030 World Expo is a significant development with various aspects to consider. Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the provided information:
Host City Selection
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, won the bid to host the 2030 World Expo, beating out competing bids from Rome and the South Korean port city of Busan.
Voting Outcome
Riyadh secured the hosting rights with a majority of 119 out of 165 votes during a closed-door meeting of the Bureau International des Expositions.
Saudi Vision 2030
The Saudi bid emphasized shaping a prosperous and sustainable future in alignment with the country’s Vision 2030, a strategic plan to diversify the economy and enhance international standing.
Public Transit and Futuristic Space
Saudi Arabia’s plans for the Expo include a major public transit network and a futuristic, round space featuring public parks, e-game facilities, large[1]scale performance stages, and sports venues.
The project places a strong emphasis on accelerating innovations to preserve natural ecosystems.
Legacy and Commitment:
The legacy of Riyadh Expo 2030 is expected to extend beyond physical structures, with a focus on collaboration and working together for a brighter, more prosperous future.
Visitor Expectations
Saudi Arabia aims to attract 40 million visitors to Riyadh during the Expo, contributing to the city’s economic and cultural development.
Campaign Efforts
Each city competing for the Expo escalated campaign efforts, showcasing unique visions and making ambitious promises to secure the hosting rights.
Riyadh’s Marketing Campaign
Saudi Arabia conducted a significant marketing campaign, including a “Riyadh 2030” exhibit near the Eiffel Tower and extensive advertising in Paris.
The bid received official support from French President Emmanuel Macron.
Controversies and Human Rights Concerns
Some activists denounced Riyadh’s candidacy due to human rights concerns, including allegations related to the 2018 murder of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
Competing Bids
Rome enlisted actor Russell Crowe in its campaign, emphasizing plans for the world’s largest urban solar park and a green corridor connecting the Expo site to historic landmarks.
Busan, South Korea, highlighted its capabilities in artificial intelligence and 6G technology, leveraging cultural heavyweights like Psy and BTS in its bid.
Historical Significance of World Expos
The World Expo has a storied history of bringing nations together to showcase technological innovations and cultural achievements since its inaugural event in 1851.
Expos serve as platforms for introducing groundbreaking inventions and have evolved into opportunities for host cities to catalyze economic growth and gain global recognition.
summary, Riyadh’s successful bid to host the 2030 World Expo reflects the city’s vision for a sustainable and prosperous future, with a focus on innovation and collaboration on a global scale.