'An Era of Change' for Saudi Arabia

With the decision now resting in the hands of the Bureau of International Expositions (BIE), Saudi Arabia, along with Italy's Rome and Busan in the Republic of Korea, presented its innovative plans and aspirations at a recent event in Paris.

Spearheading Saudi Arabia's bid is the theme "The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow." The kingdom is envisioning a large-scale event, welcoming more than forty million visitors from around the globe over a six-month period beginning in October 2030.

H.E. Adel Al Jubeir, Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Envoy for Climate, spoke about the significance of the Expo. He said, "Our desire to host it in Saudi Arabia in 2030 lines with the target date for the implementation of our Vision 2030. It's an important year for us. We want the world to see Saudi Arabia and we want Saudi Arabia to see the world. We are devoting tremendous resources to it."

At the heart of the Saudi bid is a comprehensive masterplan, featuring a global-themed site located north of Riyadh city, near the airport. Lamia AlMuhanna, Director of Landscape Architecture at The Royal Commission for Riyadh City, said each participating country would have its own pavilion, with Saudi Arabia sponsoring some of them.

"We're committed to 'one nation, one pavilion'. Visitors will be able to experience narrow shaded streets that are inspired by the capital's heritage and enjoy Wadi al-Sula, which is a natural oasis in the park. Preserving our nature and embracing Riyadh's commitment to sustainability," AlMuhanna shared.

The expo district will house a futuristic monument designed to be emblemic of the Expo. Nouf Majed Almoneef, Senior Director of Creative Arts at The Royal Commission for Riyadh City,