EXPO MEANS BUSINESS

From networking opportunities to thought- provoking discussions, Expo 2020 Dubai is a gateway to source new connections and ideas

Expo 2020 Dubai is being pitched as a “unique global platform to attract investments, forge agreements and promote international cooperation”. With 191 participating nations, each with their own pavilion, plus a host of major organisations, from the Gulf Cooperation Council, Investment Corporation of Dubai and the League of Arab States, to the African Union, ASEAN, Muslim World League, all located on site, the event is effectively a giant trade show. Expo says it’s the place to “rekindle business connections and open new markets and revenue streams”.

To make networking as easy as possible, Expo has developed a Business Matchmaking app (visit expo2020.swapcard.com), available on web, iOS and Android. Priced at just US$3, the app provides unlimited access to Expo 2020 business visitors and facilitates unlimited meeting and connection requests. It also provides you with personalised contact recommendations, based on your criteria. You can also meet connections online via video calls.

With Expo aiming to bring the world together to chart a course forward, improving the quality of life for generations to come, it is running The Programme for People and Planet, designed to address the most pressing challenges we face today.

Supported by Expo’s official partners and its international participants, the programme of events explores cultural, social, environmental, economic and business challenges, as well as issues of strategic importance to the UAE’s future under its Vision 2071 roadmap.

It encompasses thought-leadership sessions, business forums, cultural conversations, storytelling, womenin-business discussions, examples of best practice, ministerial gatherings, and more. Most events are aligned to 10 themed weeks:

Oct 3-9

Climate and Biodiversity Week Combining advanced engineering and technologies to gain a deeper understanding of the natural environment.

Oct 17-23

Space Week

Exploring new frontiers for earth and space as space exploration becomes more accessible.

Oct 31-Nov 6

Urban and Rural Development Week

Ensuring cities become more inclusive for their citizens and more in tune with their environment.

Nov 14-20

Tolerance and Inclusivity Week Creating more tolerant and inclusive societies around the world.

Nov 3-Dec 4

Golden Jubilee Month

Celebrating the UAE’s ‘ Year of 50’ and discussing prospects for the next 50 years.

Dec 12-18

Knowledge and Learning Week Harnessing our knowledge today to prepare for the future.

Jan 9-15

Travel and Connectivity Week Balancing physical and digital connectivity to bring us together and progress.

Jan 16-22

Global Goals Week

Working together to achieve the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Jan 27-Feb 2

Health and Wellness Week Promoting improved physical and mental health globally.

Feb 17-23

Food, Agriculture and Livelihoods Week

Strategies for ensuring the availability of healthy food for all as the global population swells.

Mar 20-26

Water Week

Future management of water sources and marine systems.