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The master plan, a cornerstone of Expo 2030 Riyadh, spans a six million sqm site with a gated event area of two million sqm
Saudi Arabia has announced strong progress in its preparations to host Expo 2030 Riyadh; at the 175th General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) – held recently in Paris – it unveiled updates on its master plan for the global event. The Saudi delegation provided comprehensive plans for the event’s theme, visual identity, masterplan, and logistical preparations.
The master plan, a cornerstone of Expo 2030 Riyadh, spans a six million sqm site, with a gated event area of two million sqm. It features five themed zones, over 200 pavilions, and innovative layouts designed for flexibility and sustainability. Three prominent Saudi speakers addressed the assembly, sharing insights into the progress and future plans for the landmark occasion.
Abdulaziz Alghannam, Senior General Director of Expo 2030 Riyadh, highlighted the milestones achieved since Riyadh’s successful bid to host Expo 2030. He emphasised the city’s readiness programme, which incorporates lessons from previous expos, to ensure Riyadh meets the demands of hosting such a monumental event. “Remarkable progress has been made on the journey to 2030. The City Readiness programme has been launched, and we are evaluating Riyadh’s capacity to ensure the necessary investments are in place,” he said.
Ghida Al Shibl, a senior official involved in Expo 2030 Riyadh preparations, focused on governance, theme development, also highlighted plans for Expo 2025 in Osaka. She commented, “Our overarching theme ‘Foresight for Tomorrow’ encapsulates three vital subthemes: Transformational Technology, Sustainable Solutions, and Prosperous People. These subthemes aim to inspire meaningful action and foster global collaboration.”
She also outlined the governance framework ensuring progress toward Expo 2030. The Expo High Committee, chaired by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, prioritises the Expo as a national imperative. Meanwhile, the Public Investment Fund-backed Expo Development Company oversees operations, logistics, and legacy planning.
Updates on the Expo 2030 logo, the establishment of the Riyadh Expo Development Company, and the master plan, were provided by Mazin Al Furaih. The new logo, developed after a comprehensive review of past Expo branding, will be officially announced following a dedicated roll-out plan. He also discussed how the establishment of the Riyadh Expo Development Company was a pivotal step toward ensuring the seamless execution of Expo 2030. The company, supported by a board of directors and a CEO, oversees strategic planning, master plan development, operations, and international participant engagement.
“The new master plan embodies the vision of Expo and its legacy, integrating thematic pavilions, entertainment areas, and sustainable infrastructure. The site is strategically located near key landmarks, creating a distinctive identity in harmony with its surroundings,” noted Al Furaih. |
