Joe's Travel Blog: Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE (01/27/2022 - 02/01/2022; 03/10/2022)

Sunday, December 3, 2023

Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE (01/27/2022 - 02/01/2022; 03/10/2022) - Part I

This was the first time I had ever visited an Expo of any sort. Historically known as the World's Fair, it dates back to 1791 in Prague where the first one was held, and in recent times they are meant to showcase the entire human experience, and what makes each nation 'special' - entailing each participating nation to build their own pavilion to showcase the best of their country. It also provides the host country a chance to shine, and the UAE definitely did not disappoint here.

Expo 2020 in Dubai was supposed happen in 2020 itself but it was pushed back by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and as such, I was lucky to catch it.

It was a rare break from the constant drumming of pessimism around the world to celebrate human culture, industry and innovation. I thoroughly enjoyed visiting it, spending every moment of free time I had over there, enjoying the unique architecture, positive stories, and food I normally wouldn't be able to try. Some of what I experienced certainly informed plans for future travels.

The photos and videos are a poor proxy for the experience and hopefully it inspires you to make a future visit - Osaka will host the next Expo 2025 and Riyadh will host 2030.

Instead of my usual posting in chronological order, I will post by country / theme.

Common Areas / Non-Country Pavilions