Calligraphy Bench 2

Expo Grounds

Introduction

Introduction

The physical embodiment of Connecting Minds, Creating the Future

Expo 2020 Dubai has pushed the boundaries of architecture and urban design. As the physical embodiment of our theme - Connecting Minds, Creating the Future - the Expo grounds tell a story of interconnectivity and innovation. From sustainable design to awe-inspiring structures and interactive spaces, from bold artistic statements to carefully considered practicalities and vibrant, lush landscaping that reflects the UAE's biodiversity, it’s our hope that Expo 2020’s entire blueprint will serve as an inspiration for future generations of architects and designers.

The heart of Expo

Al Wasl Plaza

Expo 2020's spirit of connection takes spectacular shape in Al Wasl Plaza. Carrying the old name of Dubai, Al Wasl (the Connection) is situated at the convergence of the three thematic districts and is a gathering ground for celebration and wonder.

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Immersive Waterfall

Surreal

A stunning amphitheatre with 18-metre-high walls, Surreal is an immersive experience of choreographed water, light, fire and music set to a symphonic soundscape created by renowned composer Ramin Djwadi.

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A stunning entrance

Entry Portals

Conceived by architect Asif Khan, the 21-metre-high entry portals are woven from ultra-lightweight carbon fibre. They mark each thematic district entrance, offering a monumental welcome to Expo 2020 Dubai.

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Inspiring art works

Public Art Programme

11 permanent art works are installed in Expo 2020’s public realm. Inspired by 11th century mathematician, astronomer and physicist Ibn al Haytham's seminal "Book of Optics", these works examine the relationship between the imagined and the perceived.

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Tradition reinvented

Sabeel Fountains

A custom that dates back to Bedouin times, sabeels are public water fountains providing free refreshment to travellers. At Expo, the sabeel has been reimagined by artists and designers, celebrating tradition and providing visitors with fresh water.

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Expo from above

Garden in the Sky

Standing tall in Jubilee Park, the Garden in the Sky observation tower lifts visitors high above Expo, rotating as it goes to provide a full panoramic view of the Expo 2020 grounds.

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Poetry in Form

Calligraphy Benches

Arabic handwriting is reimagined in a series of creatively designed calligraphy benches dotted around the Expo site. Each bench takes the lines of an inspiring word in Arabic, swooping, curving, or jutting in geometric shapes to evoke its meaning.

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UAE Landscapes Park

Ghayath Trail

Nestled beside the falcon-inspired UAE Pavilion, Ghayath Trail is an art and nature walk. It offers curated garden spaces inspired by UAE landscapes, from rocky mountains and lush grassland to the arid desert.

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In memory of heroes

The Peace Memorial

The Peace Memorial honours the Emiratis who gave their lives to bring peace and stability to the world. The structure’s columns represent the lives laid down in protection of the UAE, its citizens and others beyond its borders.

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A tribute to workers

The Worker’s Monument

Designed by Asif Khan, the Expo 2020 Dubai Worker’s Monument is a celebration of the people who built the Expo. A broad curve of 38 columns, the monument is inscribed with the name of every construction worker involved in Expo’s creation.

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Mascot-Inspired Play

Expo Playgrounds

Inspired by Expo’s mascots, Latifa and Rashid's playgrounds reflect their characters. Technology-loving Latifa’s playground is futuristic, celebrating the UAE’s Mars Mission. Nature-loving Rashid’s playground is inspired by Dubai's humpback whales.

Visit Rashid's Adventures
Visit Latifa's Adventures

Gateways to Dialogue

Majlis Structures

Majlis structures act as a gateway to the topics, conversations and experiences available across Expo, within them discover the origins, intent and impact of Expo 2020 Dubai’s key themes and stories.

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Expo Masterplan

The Hidden Stories

Much of Expo’s public realm was designed to inspire a sense of child-like wonder, from the biggest architectural marvels to the smallest tiles on the ground. The small things and hidden stories all contribute to the site's character.

The Hidden Stories