Expo 2020 will boost logistics industry

The World Expo 2020 Dubai will boost the logistics industry as billions of dollars are being invested in infrastructure and logistics services in preparation for the mega event, according to industry experts.

The global Expo aims to bring together over 180 countries and millions of people to celebrate human ingenuity: “Connecting Minds; Creating the Future.”

The Dubai government estimate suggests around 25 million people are expected to visit the Expo between its opening day on October 20, 2020 and its close on April 10, 2021.

“I believe mobility is one of the key pillars of Expo 2020. The mega expo is a window of opportunity that will connect people, goods and ideas in addition to providing easy access to markets, knowledge and innovation,” stated Shailesh Dash, Chairman of Dubaibased Gulf Pinnacle Logistics.

The budget of the Expo

2020 site is estimated at more than $8 billion (Dh29.3 billion).

The Expo site will be served by a world-class road network, a brand-new extension to the Dubai metro system, and three international airports.

“The logistics industry in the UAE is at a very interesting turning point due to Expo 2020 and the economic transformation momentum within Gulf economies as well as for further economic integration and cooperation in the regional bloc,” said Dash.

Added Rodney Viegas, General Manager of Dubaibased Abdul Mohsen Shipping: “The logistics industry witnessed positive trends during the past 18 months across the world as many regions recovered from the economic slowdown of the past few years. Recovery in oil prices which recently crossed $80 a barrel, is a key driver for economic growth.”

While Gulf countries move forward with plans to diversify their economies, the logistics and transportation industries form the foundation of such an economic transformation, as the sectors are critical enablers for all other industries.