Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has been chosen as the host city for Expo 2030, announced at the 173rd General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions. This landmark event, themed The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow, aligns seamlessly with Saudi’s Vision 2030, aiming to transform the Kingdom, diversify the economy, and enhance citizens’ lives.
Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO and Member of the Board of Saudi Tourism Authority, said, “It marks an extraordinary chapter for Saudi, with our capital city, Riyadh, honoured by the world as the chosen host of Expo 2030. I believe that Expo 2030 will serve as a catalyst for growth, and its impact on Saudi’s tourism sector will be felt immediately. As we prepare for this iconic global showpiece, we would like to call on our trade partners to take advantage of the historic opportunities on offer, to help us drive forward sustainable growth and development within the Kingdom’s tourism sector today.”
Key Highlights
Expo 2030 Impact: With close to 40 million site visits expected, Expo 2030 is poised to catapult Saudi’s tourism sector to new heights, providing a global platform to showcase the kingdom’s unique offerings.
Tourism Growth: Saudi, one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations, witnessed a 64 per cent increase in international arrivals in Q1 2023 compared to 2019. Expo 2030 will turbocharge this growth, fostering job creation, sector investment, and trade partnerships.
Economic Boost: The announcement is set to significantly boost Saudi’s economy, aligning with Vision 2030 ambition to make tourism the second largest component of the country’s GDP.
Infrastructure Development: With over 4,00,000 hotel rooms set to expand to 8,54,000 by 2030, and the development of King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi is ensuring seamless accessibility for Expo attendees.
Cultural and Sporting Hub: Recent events like the FIFA Club World Cup and upcoming attractions like the Jeddah Corniche Formula 1 Circuit and blockbuster boxing match featuring Tyson Fury, the WBC heavyweight champion and former UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou establish Saudi as a global cultural and sporting events hub.
Expo 2030 Details: Projections include close to 40 million site visits, over 1 billion pavilion digital visits to the historic metaverse pavilion, and the participation of 246 unique events across 6 million square metres.
Global Recognition: Following the success of Expo 2020 in Dubai, excitement is also growing for Saudi’s presence at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
E-Visa Program: Saudi’s E-Visa program, available in over 59 countries, continues to facilitate seamless entry for millions of global visitors.
It is time to seize the historic opportunities to embark on this transformative journey along with STA that marks a new era for Saudi tourism and allied sectors.
