The Bureau of International des Expositions (BIE) has confirmed that preparations are on track for the Dubai Expo 2020, which begins in October 2021, despite COVID-19.
Dimitri Kerkentzes, secretary general of BIE, said that the pandemic has not impacted preparations and that pavilion construction is progressing well.
“The construction of all pavilions is progressing well and is in compliance with the safety regulations and barrier measures issued by the organisers, and will be hopefully completed by end of the year,” he said (via Khaleej Times).
Kerkentzes was speaking at the opening day of the virtual Expo 2020 International Participants Meeting (IPM) on Monday (August 24).
‘Construction of all pavilions is progressing well’
As preparations for @Expo2020Dubai continue on site and in countries around the world, Organisers & participants are reminded of the unlimited opportunities that are made possible when we come together as one.
— Dimitri Kerkentzes (@dkerkentzes) August 24, 2020
“Dubai and the UAE along with all participating countries have continued to make remarkable progress towards delivering the next World Expo despite the impact and challenges of a global pandemic,” said Kerkentzes (via Trade Arabia).
“Over the coming days, organisers and participants will exchange closely to ensure that Expo 2020 is an exceptional event, reminding us of the unlimited opportunities that are made possible when we come together as one.”
Expo 2020 confirmed the news in a press release, saying all construction was completed at the end of 2019. Work this year has focused on landscaping the site and fitting out buildings. The construction of pavilions has also continued at pace.
Expo 2020 Dubai was postponed to October 1, 2021
Covid-19 has placed @Expo2020Dubai in a new context which requires innovative approaches & a fresh mindset. With bold ideas & innovations, quality content and memorable experiences, the Expo will be a marker of our era, and a milestone event for visitors and participants alike. pic.twitter.com/5HiLfp6NPg
— Dimitri Kerkentzes (@dkerkentzes) August 24, 2020
During a keynote address, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan said that although “our shared path may seem a little longer than we anticipated, I trust that we will reach our destination together, inspired by the perseverance of our frontline heroes”.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum added: “The agility and responsiveness of Dubai and the UAE have been instrumental in the swift reopening of the country’s tourism sector.
“Expo 2020 is aligned with Dubai and the UAE’s commitment to building a brighter future and acting in solidarity with countries and communities around the world.
COVID-19 pandemic has not impacted preparations
“We are delighted to join with our participants at the IPM to share updates, experiences and ideas as we continue to move forward together on our journey to Expo 2020.”
Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan said he’s “excited by the potential of our collective efforts to learn, to grow, and to fulfil the mandate of our nations, and of the World Expo itself”.
“While much has changed in the recent months, we are united in our ambitions, and empowered by the breadth and depth of our responsibilities. We will welcome the world, we will tell our stories to the world and together we will help build a better world.”
Expo 2020 Dubai will run for six months from October 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022.
