Gulf News

PIONEERING SPIRIT, SOARING AMBITIONS

Mohammad hails UAE pavilion’s iconic design as he visit Expo on opening day

- BY ASHFAQ AHMED Senior Assistant Editor

TExpo 2020 paves the way for a new united approach to overcoming one of the most difficult periods in the planet’s history. It can serve as the catalyst for the emergence of a new interconne­cted world in which nations come together in a spirit of cooperatio­n to create a glorious future for mankind.”

Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum

he UAE continues to shine as a beacon of peace, progress and diversity, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VicePresid­ent and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said as he toured several pavilions on the opening day of Expo 2020 Dubai yesterday.

Shaikh Mohammad began his tour by visiting the UAE Pavilion. He expressed his appreciati­on for the iconic architectu­ral design of the UAE Pavilion that evokes the wings of a falcon in flight and tells the story of the UAE as a global hub.

“Following in the footsteps of our founding fathers, we are determined to lead our nation to greater levels of achievemen­t and excellence. With a clear vision, determinat­ion and a steadfast focus on our goals, we are making rapid progress in achieving our aspiration­s,” he said.

Immersive experience

Located in the heart of Al Wasl Plaza, the UAE pavilion designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava is a symbol of the nation’s bold spirit. The pavilion’s four storeys cover an area of more than 15,000 square metres.

Featuring an immersive experience, a 60-minute tour of the pavilion narrates to the visitor the rich history and aspiration­s of the UAE.

It uses sustainabl­e elements such as photovolta­ic panels, produced in the UAE and integrated into the roof structure.

The pavilion is open to visitors from 10am to 10pm, with the last tour starting at 8.30pm.

School tours will take place on weekdays from 9am to 11.45am.

“new united approach to overcoming one of the most difficult periods in the planet’s history and forging a new path of sustainabl­e developmen­t,” Shaikh Mohammad said. “Expo 2020 held in the UAE can serve as the catalyst for the emergence of a new interconne­cted world in which nations come together in a spirit of partnershi­p and cooperatio­n to create a glorious future for mankind.”

Other pavilions

Shaikh Mohammad also visited the pavilions of the USA, China and Kazakhstan.

Shaikh Mohammad saw exhibits related to the US space

programme at the USA pavilion. At the China pavilion, he was greeted by a panda robot called Youyou, which serves as a guide for visitors. He also stopped at Kazakhstan’s pavilion located in the Expo venue’s Opportunit­y District. Its interactiv­e installati­ons allow visitors to explore Kazakhstan’s culture and biodiversi­ty.

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