Celebrate ASEAN's National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai and immerse yourself in the nation's incredible culture.

ASEAN Honour Day Ceremony

ASEAN

Inside Expo_New

Architecture II: Al Wasl Plaza

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Al Wasl Plaza

Al Wasl 

Notice the Expo logo at the centre of Al Wasl Plaza's oculus.

Al Wasl Dome 3

Experience a towering structure under which the Leaning Tower of Pisa could fit.

Al Wasl 4

Al Wasl Plaza Images

The Opening Ceremony: A Story of Hope

Expo 2020 Dubai, the first Expo in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region in the 170 years of World Expo history, opened with a celebration of global togetherness and optimism. Spectacular storytelling, performances, fireworks, and immersive projections on the dome of Al Wasl, the heart of Expo 2020, all told a story of collaboration and hope for the future, echoing Expo 2020 Dubai's theme of "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future". Global artists joining in the celebration included Andrea Bocelli, Ellie Goulding, Lang Lang and Mohammed Abdu.

Description 

General view of Al Wasl Plaza 

The first World Expo in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region, Expo 2020 opened with a celebration of global connection and hope for the future.

Jaw-dropping immersive projections beginning with the fiery birth of our planet.

A celebration of the majesty of nature, both underwater and on land.

Incredible local and international performers.

Image Gallery

Expo 2020 Dubai Opening Ceremony

Long ago, travellers referred to Dubai as Al Wasl, or “the connection” – a name that reflects the area’s heritage as a meeting point. This spirit of coming together takes shape in Al Wasl Plaza, Expo 2020’s spectacular centrepiece and gathering ground for celebration and wonder. 

Situated at the meeting point of Expo’s three thematic districts, Al Wasl Plaza's dome is tall enough to fit the Leaning Tower of Pisa beneath it. By night, she transforms into a 360-degree projection screen, blanketed by more than 250 state-of-the-art projectors. Al Wasl Plaza is a hub for visitors and the vibrant heart of our Expo.

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Daily performances, national day ceremonies and more

Al Wasl Dome Projections

Immersive 360-degree domed projection screen

Al Wasl exterior

Lush garden spaces for relaxation and connection

Al Wasl features

Al Wasl Logo-01

Al Wasl Plaza 360

Al Wasl Plaza is 130 metres in diameter and more than 67 metres tall. Delicate-looking despite its titanic scale, her pattern is inspired by our Expo's logo, which is fully visible at the oculus.

and magical

Extraordinary

The life force of the Expo 2020 site, Al Wasl Plaza proudly carries the old name of Dubai.

The beating heart of Expo 2020

A series of immersive 360° videos of Al Wasl's projection shows that put you centre stage for each stunning performance. 

DUBAI, 12 October 2021. Underwater Harmony performance at Al Wasl, Expo 2020 Dubai. (Photo by Christopher Pike/Expo 2020 Dubai)


Underwater Harmony performance at Al Wasl

Al Wasl Plaza 360° Immersive Experiences

The Beating Heart of Expo 2020

The Beating Heart of Expo

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ASEAN National Day Parade m22249

Join us in celebrating ASEAN's Honour Day at Expo 2020

The large teakwood arch that spans the entry of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Pavilion is based on the elaborate gateways that welcome visitors to villages throughout its diverse 10 member nations. Experience the friendly spirit of these interconnected countries at ASEAN’s Expo 2020 pavilion. Pose in a photo booth stocked with traditional costumes of ASEAN member states, admire a curated sampling of authentic artwork and artefacts, or help build an architectural puzzle. Then, embark on the ASEAN Trail Challenge to visit all its members’ pavilions at Expo.


ASEAN Pavilion

ASEAN Honour Day

Inside Expo: The Future is Well

The global pandemic has tested our interconnected world. Expo presents an important opportunity for all stakeholders in the health sector to design an inclusive, crisis-proof global health system that is fit for the future. The very latest health and medical technology will also be on display, including systems that are transforming how communities access healthcare and fight disease outbreaks. The programme will highlight how innovation and investment in health and wellness can contribute to a healthier, happier global community. 

health and wellness week

 How can we create a healthy, happy world?

Health & Wellness Week

With our planet today home to 7.8 billion people, we put the spotlight on co-existence, understanding different faiths, creating inclusive dialogue, and so much more. During this Theme Week, Expo will provide a platform for diverse voices from all corners of the world to reimagine how spaces, environments and storytelling can become more inclusive by focusing on multiculturalism and peaceful co-existence.

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How can we foster a greater common understanding to enable more tolerant and inclusive societies?

Tolerance & Inclusivity Week

Join us and celebrate Switzerland's National Day at Expo

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Switzerland Gallery

The magnificent, snow-capped Swiss Alps are renowned for their stunning natural majesty. Now, at Expo 2020, you can have your own breathtaking alpine experience – no climbing boots or ice axe required. The Switzerland Pavilion offers a simulated hike through the country’s mountains, traversing a dense sea of fog. After cresting the spectacular summit, you’ll reach an enchanting city of opportunities where you can explore Swiss innovation, take in traditional performances and sample mouth-watering Swiss chocolate.

  Immersive simulated hike amid the Swiss Alps

High-tech interactive exhibits exploring Swiss innovation

Rooftop terrace bar, and delicious Swiss chocolates at the Sprüngli Café

Switzerland Features

Switzerland

The Switzerland Pavilion's bold, funnel-shaped mirror façade reflects the ground in front of the pavilion: a massive red carpet decorated with a white Swiss cross. The polygonal mirror panels converge at a  doorway in the lower left of the building, crafted from scaffolding and textiles inspired by Bedouin tents. 

ASEAN Honour Day Ceremony

Image Gallery

ASEAN Honour Day.