Riyadh to host 2023 World Expo

The Saudi capital was up against prospective hosts Rome and Busan  

Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh has been confirmed as the host of the 2030 World Expo.

Members of the Paris-based Bureau International des Expositions chose Riyadh with a majority of 119 out of 165 votes, with Busan receiving 29 votes and Rome 17. 

Focused on sustainability, Riyadh’s plans for Expo 2030 include a public transit network, parks, e-game facilities, large scale performance stages and sporting venues.

RELATED:
Saudi Arabia announces bid to host World Expo 2030
Saudi Arabia announces the launch of its new national carrier
Riyadh Air signs partnership with Atletico de Madrid football club

With the stakes high, each city escalated its campaign efforts, showcasing unique visions and ambitious promises to secure the rights to the globally prestigious event.

The win comes after a significant marketing campaign, featuring a ‘Riyadh 2030’ exhibit near the Eiffel Tower and extensive advertising across Paris. Saudi Arabia hopes the Expo will attract 40 million visitors to Riyadh.

The World Expo events aim to bring nations together to showcase technological innovations and cultural achievements. In recent years, they have evolved into opportunities for host cities to catalyse economic growth and global recognition.

BUILD YOUR OWN TRAVEL BUSINESS. JOIN TRAVEL COUNSELLORS' NEXT EVENT TO FIND OUT HOW

Dubai, which hosted Expo 2020 in 2021 due to the pandemic, is now using its US $7 billion site to host the United Nations’ COP28 climate talks this week.

The next Expo is scheduled to take place in Osaka, Japan, in 2025.

For more information, visit www.bie-paris.org/site/en/world-expo-2030