Riyadh secures hosting Rights for Expo 2030, emerging victorious over Italy, South Korea

This opportunity marked a significant diplomatic victory for the Persian Gulf countries.

Scheduled to take place from October 2030 to March 2031, the Riyadh exhibition will revolve around the theme "Age of Change: Together for a Forward-Looking Tomorrow." The Expo, rooted in history with notable editions like the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London and the 1889 World Exhibition in Paris, has evolved into a global platform addressing contemporary challenges.

Competing against Italy and South Korea, Riyadh secured the hosting rights after a vote at the "Office of International Exhibitions" in Paris. During the final presentations, Saudi Arabia outlined its vision for Expo 2030, earning 119 votes. In contrast, Busan, South Korea, garnered 29 votes, and Rome, Italy, received 17 votes.

International support for Riyadh's bid included a video message from soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo, now playing for Riyadh's Al-Nasr team, expressing enthusiasm about the city's readiness to welcome visitors. Earlier, French President Emmanuel Macron had also endorsed Riyadh's bid.

The World Exhibition is held every five years, with the 2020 edition hosted by Dubai. The upcoming 2025 exhibition is slated for Japan, focusing on "Designing the Future Society for Our Lives." 

Reuters characterized Riyadh's successful bid as a "diplomatic victory for the Persian Gulf countries," highlighting the significance of the Expo in fostering global collaboration and addressing the evolving needs of the international community.