3 min
In a resounding victory, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, emerged as the chosen host for the highly anticipated World Expo 2030.
The decision, revealed by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) following a decisive vote, saw Riyadh clinching a majority of 119 out of 165 votes from member states.
This victory places Riyadh at the forefront, beating out formidable contenders such as South Korea's Busan and Italy's Rome. The World Expo, a quinquennial event that garners millions of visitors and attracts substantial investment, is a prestigious global affair. Riyadh's compelling bid not only secured the necessary two-thirds majority but also demonstrated its standing as the preferred destination for this grand gathering.
With just one round of voting, Riyadh earned a decisive 119 votes, while Busan and Rome garnered 29 and 17 votes, respectively. The intensity of the competition was palpable, as each city strategically elevated its campaign efforts, showcasing unique visions and ambitious promises to secure the rights to this globally acclaimed event.
Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh was chosen on Tuesday to host the 2030 World Expo.
The winning Saudi plan encompasses ambitious initiatives, including a comprehensive public transit network and a futuristic space designed to epitomize the country's vision for pioneering a sustainable future for cities and communities. Riyadh's success is further underscored by a robust marketing campaign, featuring the eye-catching "Riyadh 2030" exhibit near the Eiffel Tower and extensive advertising efforts throughout Paris.
Saudi Arabia's bid, aimed at diversifying the kingdom's economy and bolstering its international standing, received notable support from French President Emmanuel Macron, signalling significant diplomatic backing. This triumph marks a pivotal moment for Riyadh, positioning it as a global hub for innovation, culture, and economic growth.
The World Expo has a storied history of uniting nations to showcase technological innovations and cultural achievements. Since its inception in 1851, Expos have served as platforms for introducing groundbreaking inventions, from the light bulb to the Ferris wheel and even the iconic Eiffel Tower, constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle.
As the world's attention turns to Paris, the upcoming vote for World Expo 2030 sets the stage for the next chapter in this rich legacy. Scheduled to follow Osaka, Japan's hosting in 2025, Riyadh's win not only signifies a celebration of human ingenuity but also presents an opportunity for the host city to catalyze economic growth and attain global recognition on an unprecedented scale. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with its ambitious plans, is poised to make World Expo 2030 an event that will be remembered for decades to come.
17 min
