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.