With the opening of Expo 2020 today, albeit a year later thanks to Covid, it is only appropriate that I write about this amazing event. Since 1851, the World EXPO has unveiled a plethora of innovative designs and ideas such as the sewing machine, the telephone, the computer, the electron microscope, even Heinz Ketchup, just to mention a few. We wait with bated breath to see what EXPO Dubai and the World have to offer.
Like all the previous EXPOs, architectural design has always been a core feature of the event and this year is no different. As this is the first EXPO in the Middle East, undoubtedly it will be a grandiose affair. Covering an area of 4.38 km², in a three petal design, at the centre of the EXPO stands the 67.5 m high Al Wasl Dome, with a 25,380 m² projection surface, not only is the largest 360° screen in the world but it can be seen from inside or outside the Dome. This will also be the first time that each of the 192 participating countries will each have their own pavilion. Renowned architects from all over the world have come to the fold to show the world how design can be incorporated into one of the three themes of this EXPO: Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity.
One thing is for sure, if you want to get a glimpse of the future get to Dubai before the end of March 2022…. “Be There!”
