His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, emphasized that the UAE, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and with the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will remain a beacon of goodness, peace, and understanding among peoples, as desired by the founding father, Sheikh Zayed. This statement was made at the beginning of his visit today to the Expo 2020 Dubai site, accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and President of Emirates Airline, alongside several ministers and officials. This visit coincided with the first day of the major global event involving participation from 192 countries, under the theme "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future."
His Highness began his tour at the UAE's national pavilion, where he was received by Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth and Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion. He reviewed the pavilion’s content located in the heart of Expo 2020 Dubai, next to "Al Wasl Plaza," which acts as the exhibition’s heart. This pavilion is the largest at the expo, covering an area of 15,000 square meters and standing four levels tall. Its design adheres to the principles of sustainability that the UAE seeks to achieve in its developmental journey, aligning with global goals for resource preservation and environmental protection.
The pavilion creatively narrates the story of the UAE as "Land of Dreams and Achievements," showcasing a comprehensive understanding of Emirati culture through diverse content, including heritage presentations that allow visitors to closely engage with Emirati folklore and environmental features, as well as inspiring figures who contributed to the UAE's success narrative. Sheikh Mohammed praised the pavilion's design, which resembles a "Falcon of Leadership" ready to soar toward glory and excellence, noting that this architectural landmark reflects the values upon which the country was founded and embodies the ambitious goals of a journey rich in hard work, dedication, and giving.
His Highness expressed his appreciation for everyone involved in the creation of the UAE Pavilion, highlighting it as fitting for the country’s stature as a host for this monumental event, being held in Dubai for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. He stated, "We are proud of the product of efforts driven by a profound national sense and steadfast responsibility to ensure that the UAE flag always flies high."
The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai focuses on the stories that exemplify "Land of Dreams and Achievements," featuring significant aspects of our ambitious cultural landscape. It highlights how the Emirates welcomes "Dreamers and Achievers" of diverse cultures and aspirations, emphasizing the positive impact of human connection and collaboration in crafting a bright future that ensures goodwill for all.
His Highness’s tour included visiting several participating countries, including the United States, the People's Republic of China, and the Republic of Kazakhstan. He stated the importance of Expo 2020 Dubai, indicating that the world stands at the threshold of a new phase requiring cooperation and goodwill to offer solutions ensuring happiness to every individual and establishing the foundations for a better, more prosperous future.
Later, he mentioned on his Twitter account that he had visited the pavilions of the UAE, the USA, and Kazakhstan, affirming that East and West meet in Dubai and converse in Dubai.
His Highness also visited the USA Pavilion under the theme "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness," where he was greeted by the pavilion's Commissioner General Bob Clark. Here, he learned about its agenda, which includes activities showcasing the United States’ role in fostering creativity, innovation, and opportunities for global peace and progress.
During the tour, he viewed a replica of the "Falcon 9" rocket from SpaceX, standing over 40 meters tall, which can be reused multiple times and has been successfully tested in trips to the International Space Station. He also saw moon rocks brought back from the Apollo missions, underscoring the significant role of the USA in technology development and space exploration.
In his visit to the People's Republic of China Pavilion, where he was welcomed by Commissioner General Zhang Xinfen, he learned about China's remarkable engagement in various fields, showcasing its distinguished civilization and technological leadership.
His Highness also visited the Kazakhstan Pavilion, where he was informed of the country's aim to foster cooperation and harmony through shared experiences, emphasizing Kazakhstan's dynamic development and cultural diversity.
Expo 2020 Dubai commenced under the theme "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future" and will run until March 31, 2022, focusing on three main pillars: sustainability, mobility, and opportunity, marking a significant gathering that brings together the largest international representation in Expo history, symbolizing a new global platform that transcends the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
