Under the dome of Al Wasl you will be immersed in traditional UAE melodies from Emirati singer Fatma Zahrat Al Ain, in celebration of the UAE's 50th National Day.

Music In the Garden

Fatma Zahrat Al Ain

Emirati singer Fatma Zahrat Al Ain performs live at Al Wasl gardens in celebration of the UAE's 50th National Day.

Inside Expo_New

Architecture II: Al Wasl Plaza

Exhibitor logo

EXHIBITOR Magazine's World Expo Awards

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

UAE flag

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

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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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Music in the Garden – Fatima Zahrat Al Ain performs at Al Wasl Stage m15803

Crowds watch Music in the Garden – Fatima Zahrat Al Ain performance at Al Wasl Stage m15782

Join us in celebrating the UAE 50th National Day at Expo 2020

Flag of the United Arab Emirates

Open-heartedness and ambition are values captured by the UAE Pavilion, designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. The remarkable building is reminiscent of a falcon in flight, inspired by our national bird. Once inside, go on a multisensory journey that chronicles the rise of a nation of “dreamers who do”. Traverse a dreamlike landscape filled with dunes of real sand to learn about our nation’s founding father Sheikh Zayed, the natural wonders of the Emirates and their rapid modernisation. Be inspired by stories of the UAE dreamers building an inclusive future as the desert sun filters through the pavilion’s oculus. 

The design of the UAE Pavilion evokes a falcon in flight; referencing the Emirates’ traditional art of falconry. The main building resembles a titanic oval, with a grand, four storey entrance set into the tip. More than 25 feather-like panels are arranged at the dome of the pavilion, each curving down toward the entry of the structure. 

and powerful

Graceful

UAE Pavilion

UAE 50th National Day

UAE: Music In the Garden, ft. Fatma Zahrat Al Ain

Expo 2020 coincides with the United Arab Emirates' biggest national celebration yet – the UAE's UAE 50th National Day. To commemorate this historic event, Expo 2020 Dubai will celebrate the UAE’s extraordinary journey over the last 50 years, while also looking towards the next 50. It will share with every visitor the joy and pride that Emiratis have for their nation and their ambitious and inclusive vision for a global future.

Description

Golden Jubilee

Celebrate the UAE’s extraordinary journey over the last 50 years as well as the next 50.

Expo 2020 Dubai UAE Golden Jubilee Attractions

UAE Golden Jubilee

In celebration of Saudi Arabia's National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai, enjoy a night of Saudi music with legendary singer Mohammed Abdo. Credited for preserving classical Arabic music styles, Mohammed Abdo is famous across the Arab world for hits Masa’ Al Khair and Al Amakin. Expect an evening of soulful Khaleeji music from this Saudi legend when he takes to the stage. 


 A Night of Saudi Music, featuring Mohammed Abo

Mohamad Abdo

Enjoy a night of Saudi music in celebration of the Kingdom's National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai, featuring renowned Saudi singer "Fannan Al Arab" Mohammed Abdo. 


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Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30540

Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30541

Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30543

Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30546

Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30547

Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30558

Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30562

Mohammed Abdo performs at Jubilee Stage during the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day m30563

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Join us in celebrating Saudi Arabia's National Day at Expo 2020

KSA Flags

Saudi Arabia National Day

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KSA carousel

As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia opens itself to the world, its contribution to Expo 2020 mirrors the nation’s grand ambitions. Boasting a vast façade that covers the area of two football pitches, the Saudi Arabia Pavilion takes the form of an opening window that soars into the sky bearing messages of inspiration.

Your Saudi experience begins in the open plaza under the pavilion, where the giant screen above and LEDs below combine to create a dazzling light show. Next, the “Heritage Path” escalator will transport you to immersive exhibits – and you can end your journey with refreshments and shopping in the pavilion’s scenic palm garden.


Spectacular mirrored architectural design, dazzlingly lit on all sides

Immersive exhibition space highlighted by a multicoloured floating sphere

Palm garden featuring dining and retail options

Saudi A Features

KSA logo

The monumental Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion is a mirrored slab that extends up diagonally from the ground, resembling a giant window opening toward the sky. The immense structure soars six storeys into the air and covers more than 13,000 square metres, or the area of two football pitches. The sides of the pavilion feature a decorative motif of grey horizontal lines like layered metal, while its vast underbelly — which shades an enormous plaza — is mirrored and smooth. 


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to the sky

A window 

Saudi Arabia Pavilion 

Saudi Arabia: A Night of Saudi Music, featuring Mohammed Abdo

As a deeply symbolic cultural artifact, food informs notions of heritage, place, and identity in multifaceted ways. From informing cultural identities and nationhood to being the basis of personal family histories, meals and the ingredients that build them go beyond biological imperatives. Building on the three pillars of innovation, responsibility and identity, this event unites local, regional, and international artists, restaurateurs, researchers, scientists, and curators to share their stories.


The Future of Food

Food Week key visual 3 CIC

Sharing stories on food as a cultural artifact that informs our notions of culture, identity, heritage and community.

From farm to plate, the food value chain is an integral part of society, providing income and livelihoods for billions. The ways in which we currently cultivate food by means of deforestation and food waste however, are all contributing adversely to climate change. Expo will serve as a platform to bring together all stakeholders in various value chains to spotlight localized solutions to food, nutrition and farming challenges. The programme will explore food sustainably, climate-friendly agriculture and other practices that work in harmony with the environment. 


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How do we sustainably grow food to meet future demand?

Food, Agriculture & Livelihoods Week

Cultures in Conversation | Key Ingredients: The Future of Food

World Expos have always been meeting places for people across cultures and geographies; an opportunity to come together and celebrate human ingenuity and forge meaningful human connections. As the first World Expo to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, and with the participation of more than 192 countries, Expo 2020 Dubai looks to take this legacy even further. The Build Bridges track of Expo 2020 Dubai’s Programme for People and Planet features a tapestry of event series and experiences that celebrate our common humanity and the vital connections that can help us prosper together as a worldwide community.

Knowing One Another Better

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Build Bridges 

Build Bridges Icon

Explore the epic range of experiences on offer at Expo with a dive into the unique worlds of an island archipelago, a hub of ancient knowledge, and a hike through a modernist indoor rainforest. Earn points and top the leaderboard, win badges and reveal treasures. Your points convert to Seeds of Change which you can pledge to the cause of your choice. Enjoy watching the show and chat on Facebook, YouTube or Twitch account to earn points! Photosensitivity warning: some locations in Live@Expo broadcasts may feature bright flashing lights that may affect photosensitive viewers.

Ep 44: Comoros and Yemen Pavilions

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Explore the epic range of experiences on offer at Expo with a dive into the unique worlds of an island archipelago, of ancient knowledge, and a hike through a modernist indoor rainforest. 

Use your Facebook, YouTube, Tik Tok or Twitch account to join the chat and earn points!

Interactive, chat-driven tour co-curated by you, the audience.

Earn badges, go on treasure hunts and top the leaderboard!

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stamp COMOROS LOGO

The archipelago of Comoros, off Africa’s east coast, is known for its spices and aromas: vanilla, clove, and ylang-ylang. At the Comoros Pavilion, you’ll get a fragrant tour of the islands’ “garden of marvels”, with an emphasis on sustainability.

According to Comorian legend, Mount Karthala erupted up from the ocean floor when King Solomon’s courier accidentally dropped the Queen of Sheba’s ring into the sea. As you begin your journey through the Comoros Pavilion, you’ll receive your own recycled-plastic ring that you can later toss into the Karthala crater as a symbol of your commitment to sustainability.


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Comoros Pavilion 

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stamp Yemen

Yemen Image Gallery

As one of the oldest centres of civilisation on Earth, Yemen is a treasured archive of ancient knowledge and timeless wisdom. The Yemen Pavilion celebrates the ingenuity of the Yemeni mind with a millennia-spanning showcase exploring the infinite power of knowledge to advance human development. Read handwritten manuscripts in augmented reality, peruse the libraries of the future and cap it all off with a mind-stimulating cup of authentic Yemeni coffee.


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Yemen Pavilion

Live@Expo Ep 44: Comoros and Yemen Pavilions

Welcome to an interactive live tour where you and a community of virtual visitors from around the world control where the guide goes and what you see! Earn points and top the leaderboard, win badges and reveal treasures. Your points convert to Seeds of Change which you can pledge to the cause of your choice.

Live@Expo

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Join a new virtual tour of the Expo! You control where the guide goes as they explore Expo 2020.

Music In the Garden

Image Gallery

UAE 50th National Day.

This event is part of theUAE Golden Jubilee.

This event is part of the
UAE Golden Jubilee.