Tag: Expo 2020

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-Top News Dubai EXPO 2020

Dubai Metro to run for 24 hours

March 31 is expected to be the busiest day at Expo 2020 Dubai and organisers are advising visitors to use public transport, including Dubai Metro, which is open 24 hours on that day…reports Asian Lite News

Visitors are also advised to arrive early. Tareq Ghosheh, Expo‘s chief events and entertainment officer, said Dubai Metro will run non-stop on March 31 until April 1 to ensure visitors’ safe and efficient arrival and departure.

Expo 2020 Dubai

Expo recorded more than 1 million visits last Friday, Saturday and Sunday and more well-wishers are expected to are expected to say their final goodbyes to the world’s greatest fair.

The closing ceremony is expected to come down with a bang as there fireworks, air shows and world-class performers for the grand finale.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) had earlier tweeted: “If you’re planning to visit #Expo2020 via the #DubaiMetro, make sure you have enough balance in your #nol card or recharge before departing to enjoy an easy and comfortable journey without delay or waiting time at Expo 2020 Station due to the heavy turnout to the exhibition site.”

ALSO READ: Power-packed performance on anvil

Deepening entrepreneurial ties

Meanwhile, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF), an initiative launched by the UAE Ministry of Finance to support innovation in the UAE, established stronger ties with entrepreneurs and investors during UAE Innovates 2022 at Expo 2020 Dubai.

Senior figures from the Fund met with potential entrepreneurs and innovators to explore closer investment opportunities across technology, transportation, education, health, water, renewable energy, and space. It provided an opportunity for innovation-minded talent to seek closer collaboration with MBRIF.

During the session, the MBRIF team spoke extensively about MBRIF’s Guarantee Scheme and Innovation Accelerator programme and highlighted key milestones and success stories.

Fatima Al Naqbi, Chief Innovation Officer at Ministry of Finance and MBRIF representative said: “After hosting a number of activities for UAE Innovates 2022, the greatest show on Earth did not disappoint, providing a platform for us to deepen ties with investors, innovators, entrepreneurs, and emerging talents. We are pleased to support innovators through our Guarantee Scheme and Innovation Accelerator, offering access to funding as well as world-class services and coaching to member companies to accelerate their business, elevate capabilities, unlock value and achieve scale at speed.”

UAE Innovates 2022 is one of the world’s largest innovation festivals and took place from 11th-16th February with a series of events and activities that saw a consolidated effort by the government, private sector and individuals to enhance a widespread culture of innovation in the UAE. It took place after the UAE was named the world’s best place to start a new business, ranking first in the Global Entrepreneurship Index, outperforming major economies such as the US, UK, Japan, Canada, South Korea and some EU countries.

Expo 2020 Dubai witnessed several events under the UAE Innovates 2022 umbrella, including new programmes, specialised workshops, and interactive sessions to promote the country’s transition to a knowledge-driven economy. MBRIF was an active player, meeting investors and innovators to promote its Fund Guarantee Scheme and the Innovation Accelerator.

MBRIF’s Innovation Accelerator aims to enhance growth potential of innovative businesses shaping the future of the UAE’s economy. Some of its recent success stories include LetsWork, a co-working space startup that makes it easier for people to find spaces in the UAE.

MBRIF’s Guarantee Scheme enables access to affordable debt finance with unique benefits, including no dilution of equity, extended runway, minimal collateral requirements, affordable finance costs and flexible repayment terms.

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-Top News Dubai EXPO 2020

Sheikh Saif honoured for Expo 2020 Dubai work

The honour recognizes the contributions and unlimited support of Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan in presenting a remarkable edition of the global event…reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, honoured H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to making Expo 2020 Dubai a success.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council; and H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, attended the honouring ceremony.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed stressed that the efforts of Lt. General Sheikh Saif and his strong contributions to the success of events organised in the country, reflect his dedication to serving the nation and represent a great example to follow.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his pride in the exceptional success of Expo 2020 Dubai, which reflects the civilisation, growth and development of the UAE.

The honour recognises the contributions and unlimited support of Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan in presenting a remarkable edition of the global event.

‘We are all proud of Expo 2020 Dubai’

Sheikh Sabah Al Khalid Al Sabah, Prime Minister of Kuwait, said the UAE has created a convenient environment for overcoming the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and, due to its leadership, it has proven its ability to host millions of people.

In an exclusive statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Al Sabah said hosting Expo 2020 Dubai and the World Government Summit gave everyone an opportunity for expression after the COVID-19 pandemic, which has changed the world.

Expo 2020 Dubai is showcasing international civilisations and cultures, he added, noting that the event is a model of excellent preparations and organisation.

All Arabs are proud of the major international event, which is taking place for the first time in the region.

On his participation in the World Government Summit, he stressed that the UAE has created a platform for communication and coordination on various issues, including science, health, innovation and technology.

Prime Minister of Kuwait then wished the UAE success and prosperity.

PCFC launches new corporate identity

The Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) today announced its new corporate identity based on three basic principles; Globality, Sustainability and Communication.

Designed in the form of a globe, the new logo features three main colours representing the areas supervised by the Corporation – gold symbolising sand, blue representing water and white representing space.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, launched the new logo at an official ceremony held at the DP World pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, on the sidelines of the World Government Summit 2022. The launch event was attended by the Corporation’s Board of Directors; Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Director-General of Dubai Customs and CEO of PCFC; and the executive directors of the various PCFC departments and sectors.

Speaking at the launch event, Bin Sulayem said, “Today we announce the launch of PCFC’s new corporate identity, which marks a new phase in our growth. The new logo represents our aspirations for the future and the next stage in our journey of excellence. Based on three elements: Global, Sustainability and Communication, the new corporate identity reflects the vision of our leadership and the strategic priorities of the Dubai government.”

ALSO READ: Power-packed performance on anvil

“The elements and components of our new logo are inspired by our leadership’s vision to strengthen Dubai’s position at the forefront of global efforts to enhance sustainable development. The Corporation provides services across the emirate, including in free zones and special development zones, as well as coastal areas and Dubai’s waters. Our customs services play a key role in enhancing security as well as economic and commercial growth,” he added.

The launch ceremony held today featured the screening of a film announcing the logo, followed by the launch of the corporation’s new website and corporate identity.

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-Top News Dubai EXPO 2020

Power-packed performance on anvil

Global artistes Christina Aguilera, Norah Jones and Yo-Yo Ma to mark the end of the six-month-long extravaganza

Global music icons Christina Aguilera, Norah Jones and Yo-Yo Ma will mark the end of the six-month-long cultural extravaganza at Al Wasl Plaza, the beating heart of the first World Expo to be held in the region and the same venue where the memorable opening ceremony took place in October.

Dubbed the world’s greatest show, Expo 2020 Dubai has become an integral part of the UAE community’s lives, leaving behind memories and inspiring innovations that will last a lifetime.

The closing ceremony, which will begin at 7pm, will gaze towards the future through the young girl from the opening ceremony taking the audience on another compelling journey. For 182 days, she has grown, learned and connected with people from around the world— what remains is the final step before she awakens to her full potential.

The celebration will continue into the night, with full headline concerts from each artist across Jubilee Stage and Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre. Jaw-dropping fireworks displays will adorn the city at midnight and 3am.

With over 20 giant screens across the Expo 2020 Dubai site, including the main stages, Festival Garden and various country pavilions, everyone will have the opportunity to live the magic of the historic event that brought together 192 countries towards a great mission – creating a better future for generations to come.

While the curtain will come down on the world’s fair, UAE residents and citizens will still be able to enjoy some of Expo 2020’s landmarks, including the breathtaking light projections of Al Wasl Plaza, the splashing Water Feature and Garden in the Sky, alongside the cultural experiences of the UAE, India and Saudi Arabia pavilions.

ALSO READ: Saudi launches global campaign for Expo 2030 Riyadh

The Expo 2020 Dubai, which is the first to be hosted in a Gulf region, has fulfilled its commitment to draw between 22.9 million and 25.4 million visits. This is a commendable achievement indeed, especially in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic.

An aerobatic performance by UAE Air Force’s Fursan Al Emarat aerobatics team would be the highlight of the closing ceremony. Before an unforgettable climax, the baton of the expo would be handed over to the next generation.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE’s Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Dubai Expo 2020, will hand the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) flag to Ambassador Jai – chul Choi, the President and Dimitri Kerkentzes, the Secretary.

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Dubai EXPO 2020 UAE News

‘Walk for People and Planet’

The walk celebrated the success of the Programme for People and Planet, which has united an unparalleled diversity of perspectives across the six months of Expo 2020 Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

Thousands of people united on Tuesday for the three-kilometre ‘Walk for People and Planet’ across Expo 2020 Dubai, coming together in a shared commitment to continue addressing the greatest challenges and opportunities facing people and the planet.

Kicking off at 7:30 GST, the walk celebrated the success of the Programme for People and Planet, which has united an unparalleled diversity of perspectives across the six months of Expo 2020 Dubai – to collectively accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals and create a tangible impact that will continue to drive action after Expo 2020 Dubai closes its doors on 31st March.

ALSO READ: ‘Walk for People and Planet’

Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, led the morning’s proceedings, offering opening remarks to the group, which comprised adults and children of numerous nationalities.

Categories
-Top News Dubai EXPO 2020

One million visits in three days

An unprecedented amount of people explored Expo 2020 Dubai in the past week, with the busiest weekend across its entire six months driving the total number of visits to 22,937,830, reports Asian Lite News

Expo 2020 Dubai recorded more than one million visits last Friday, Saturday and Sunday as visitors say their final goodbyes to what has been a spectacular six months.

More well-wishers are expected to flock to the site in the remaining three days to be part of the World Expo’s closing action and entertainment – including what promises to be an unforgettable Closing Ceremony, complete with fireworks, air shows and world-class performers.

An unprecedented amount of people explored Expo 2020 Dubai in the past week, with the busiest weekend across its entire six months driving the total number of visits to 22,937,830.

Expo 2020

This means the first World Expo in the region has fulfilled its commitment to attract between 22.9 million and 25.4 million visits, a target range set out in the registration dossier that was officially ratified by Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) member states in 2015, and a remarkable achievement in the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

The last day of Expo 2020 Dubai, on Thursday (31 March), will be a historic one, welcoming the UAE Air Force’s Fursan Al Emarat aerobatics team, before an unforgettable climax as Expo hands the baton to the next generation, with a youth-focused ceremony that will see global music icons Christina Aguilera, Norah Jones and Yo-Yo Ma perform beneath Al Wasl’s iconic dome.

Also taking the stage will be the Expo 2020 World String Ensemble and talented Italian pianist Eleonora Constantini. Visitors will be able to watch on more than 20 giant screens across the site, including at the Jubilee Stage, Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre, Festival Garden and various Country Pavilions.

ALSO READ: ‘Thank you’ campaign celebrates Expo volunteers

At the ceremony, Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai, will hand the BIE flag to Ambassador Jai-chul Choi and Dimitri Kerkentzes, respectively President of the General Assembly and Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), who will present it to representatives of Expo 2025 Osaka.

Celebrations will continue throughout the night, with jaw-dropping firework displays at 0000 GST and 0300 GST, before Expo 2020 Dubai closes its stunning Entry Portals for the final time.

Before then, the World Expo promises much more to enthral visitors. Tuesday (29 March) sees India celebrating its Expo 2020 Dubai National Day, including a concert by playback star Shaan, then the Abraham Accords team squaring up against the star-studded World Classic team in an exhibition match at Expo 2020 Dubai’s Sports, Fitness & Wellbeing Hub. That’s followed on Wednesday (30 March) by the FIBA 3×3 Basketball Tournament at the Expo Sports Arena.

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-Top News Dubai EXPO 2020

Expo 2020 Celebrates India

Expo 2020 Dubai concluded National Day ceremonies of country pavilions with a grand celebration of India at Al Wasl Plaza, where minister Piyush Goyal stressed Expo will go down in history as a glorious chapter that brought India and UAE together, reports Asian Lite Newsdesk

Underlining the importance of the Dubai Expo in furthering India-UAE strategic ties, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said the brotherhood between the two countries is subject to envy of many parts of the world.

Participating at the National Day Celebration at Al Wasl Plaza in Dubai, Goyal said this Dubai Expo is a true testimony to the growing strength and relevance that UAE enjoys.

“When the Dubai Expo was first conceptualized, nobody had imagined that the world would be facing the worst pandemic in 100 years. …This Dubai Expo is a true testimony to the growing strength and relevance that UAE enjoys,” he said.

The minister stressed Dubai Expo will go down in history as a glorious chapter that brought India and UAE together.

“It is during this period that we negotiated and finalised a very comprehensive partnership that… an arrangement, a friendship, brotherhood, a partnership and a strategic engagement — that is ‘Neighbours’ envy but owner’s pride’,” Goyal said.

“We are the envy of many parts of the world who see brotherhood between India and UAE growing from strength to strength. UAE has given India a permanent place in their hearts…India pavilion at Dubai Expo is permanent, not going to be dismantled,” he added.

In the last six months, the Union Minister said the India pavilion has become a melting pot representing all that India has to offer. “It has showcased India’s diversity, our culture, rich tradition, the opportunities that India has to offer and the achievements of the last 75 years of India’s independence.”

Underscoring the importance of the 75th year of India’s independence, the minister said the Dubai Expo has also brought very rich tidings for both the partners.

ALSO READ: Saudi launches global campaign for Expo 2030 Riyadh

“In this very important year, when India celebrates 75 years of independence, Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and UAE celebrates 50 years, I believe that Dubai Expo has also brought very rich tiding for all of us — in business and people to people ties and the further strengthening of geopolitical and strategic relations that India and UAE share,” he said.

Furthermore, Goyal said the Dubai Expo has become a forum for the exchange of ideas and perspectives on what the future holds for both countries.

“Last week, the India pavilion crossed 1.7 million footfalls, probably among the three or four highest pavilions. …As the Dubai Expo will come to a close day after tomorrow, but I believe the impossible has been made possible with footfalls at the Dubai expo exceeding 23 million already,” he added.

Indian jewellery exposition

Goyal on Tuesday called upon the gem and jewellery industry to triple their exports target from about USD 35 billion exports at present to go for 100 Billion Dollar target worldwide.

Goyal said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always focused on the gems and jewellery sector and aims to make India the number one in the world in the G&J sector of not only the Made in India but also Designed in India jewellery, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry said in a press statement.

“I am sure this Centre will also play an important role in helping us meet the very, very ambitious target in our India-UAE business engagement and will serve as a global business touch-point to give our produce to international countries across the world from the UAE,” said Goyal, in his address during the Inaugural Ceremony.

Stating that in the Vishnu Purana there is a description of the ‘Syamantaka’ gem, which had the power to bring prosperity and plentitude to the possessor, Goyal said jewellery has been part of our culture and tradition and represents as a symbol of style and status in the society.

The G&J sector, at about USD 35 billion in exports, contributed to nearly 10 per cent of over USD 400 Billion exports target India scaled this financial year. (ANI)

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Africa News Arab News EXPO 2020

Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020

Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, met with Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, and George Weah, President of Liberia at Expo 2020 Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, met with Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, and George Weah, President of Liberia, who are currently visiting the UAE to participate in their respective countries’ National Day celebrations at Expo 2020 Dubai.

During a meeting that took place at the South African pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and President Ramaphosa explored fresh opportunities to expand the already strong economic relations between the UAE and South Africa. The two leaders deliberated on how they can work together to promote ingenuity and innovation in order to generate creative solutions to resolve challenges confronting humanity.

Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020 (WAM)

They also discussed how Expo 2020 Dubai has provided countries across the world with opportunities to catalyse collaboration and innovation and create tangible new avenues for business, trade and investment. Furthermore, His Highness and the South African President exchanged ideas on fostering greater knowledge-sharing and enhancing cooperation in the areas of education and student scholarships.

Accompanied by the South African President, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed went on a tour of the country’s pavilion. His Highness was briefed on South Africa’s achievements and opportunities in the economic, cultural, tourism, technology, creative arts and sporting sectors. Under the theme ‘Think Opportunity. Think South Africa’ the country’s unique pavilion explores the nation’s cosmopolitanism and accomplishments. South Africa’s participation in Expo 2020 Dubai also highlights its agriculture and global business services, mining, manufacturing and future-oriented sectors, as well as its unique cultural diversity.

Sheikh Mohammed later met with George Weah, President of Liberia, at the country’s Expo 2020 pavilion. His Highness and the Liberian President discussed how the two countries can deepen engagement and cooperation to advance the sustainable economic development agendas of both countries. The two leaders expressed their shared interest in expanding partnerships, especially in the areas of infrastructure and technology development.

Sheikh Mohammed and President Weah also went on a tour of Liberia’s Expo 2020 pavilion located in the Opportunity District. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed was taken on an immersive journey highlighting Liberia’s breathtaking natural beauty and its untapped potential in agriculture, tourism, the financial sector and infrastructure development. Filled with beautiful woven fabric patterns, the pavilion offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about Liberia’s history and what the future looks like for the West African nation. Under the theme ‘Open and Business-Ready Liberia’ the pavilion also gives visitors insights into the country’s sustainable development strategies and major infrastructure projects.

ALSO READ: Sheikh Mohammed meets Iraqi Kurdistan PM

Later during his visit to Expo 2020 Dubai today, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid toured the pavilions of Iraq and Tunisia.

At the Iraq pavilion, His Highness was taken on a voyage through the country’s culture, arts, science, literature and folklore. He was briefed about Iraq’s efforts to celebrate its past while striving to create a brighter tomorrow. Featuring the undulating form of a traditional Al Saliya fishing net, symbolic of wealth, wisdom and goodness in Mesopotamian culture, the Iraqi pavilion showcases the country’s rich history and heritage and introduces visitors to leading Iraqi business owners and innovators.

His Highness also toured the Tunisia Pavilion themed ‘Inspiring Youth, Promising Future’, which tells the story of the creativity and resourcefulness of the country’s people. Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the highlights of the pavilion including the country’s touristic and historical attractions and its futuristic vision. The Tunisia Pavilion offers visitors a fascinating journey through the country that goes beyond its holiday spots to explore its varied natural beauty including forested coastlines and striking Saharan sand seas. (WAM)

Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020 (WAM)
Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020 (WAM)
Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020
Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020 (WAM)
Sheikh Mohammed meets with Presidents of South Africa, Liberia at Expo 2020 (WAM)
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Saudi launches global campaign for Expo 2030 Riyadh

Saudi launches global campaign for Expo 2030 Riyadh

The Saudi Pavilion’s spectacular ceremony marked the end of the Kingdom’s successful presence at Expo 2020 Dubai, reports Asian Lite News

The Saudi capital has launched an ambitious global campaign for its bid to host the Expo 2030 Riyadh at a dazzling closing ceremony of the Kingdom’s pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai.

Five countries, including Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Italy, Ukraine and Russia are in the reckoning for the 2030 World Expo. The letter announcing Riyadh’s intention to bid was submitted October 29, 2021 on behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister.

The Saudi Pavilion’s spectacular ceremony marked the end of the Kingdom’s successful presence at Expo 2020 Dubai where millions of visitors got a glimpse of Saudi Arabia’s rich history, geographical and cultural diversity.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Fahd Al-Rasheed, CEO of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, said: “Millions of people who visited the award-winning Saudi pavilion got a glimpse of the future that the Kingdom and its capital are building. Today is just the start of showing what Riyadh has to offer for Expo 2030.”

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) is the Saudi capital’s highest authority driving the city’s transformation and is leading Riyadh’s bid to host the World Expo in 2030.

ALSO READ: German Federal Minister tours Expo 2020 Dubai

“Saudi Arabia is a young country and Riyadh’s renewal is powered by the energy and relentless ambition of its youth,” Al Rasheed added. “The world needs that kind of optimism about the future now more than ever.”

The RCRC CEO said the Saudi capital, with its numerous projects, will be more than ready to host the World Expo in 2030. “Riyadh is building one of the world’s largest public transport networks, one of the largest urban parks, a massive urban greening project, and turning the entire city into an open art gallery without walls.”

“The impressive footfall at the Saudi pavilion demonstrates the world’s great interest in the Kingdom and the transformation it is undergoing under the leadership of King Salman bin Adbulaziz and HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,” Al-Rasheed concluded.

Categories
-Top News Dubai EXPO 2020

3 Days Left For World’s Greatest Show

Global music icons Christina Aguilera, Norah Jones and Yo-Yo Ma will sprinkle stardust on the stunning setting at the closing ceremony of Expo 2020 Dubai, reports Asian Lite Newsdesk

With three more days left, the curtain will come down on Expo 2020 Dubai on 31st March with a spectacular Closing Ceremony that will gaze towards the future at Al Wasl Plaza, the beating heart of the first World Expo to be held in the region and the same venue where the memorable Opening Ceremony took place 182 days ago.

Global music icons Christina Aguilera, Norah Jones and Yo-Yo Ma will sprinkle stardust on the stunning setting, with 20-plus giant screens across the Expo 2020 Dubai site, including the main stages, Festival Garden and various Country Pavilions, enabling everyone to experience the magic. The celebration will continue into the night, with full headline concerts from each artist across Jubilee Stage and Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre.

The evening will begin at 19:00 GST with the young Emirati girl from the Opening Ceremony taking the audience on another compelling journey. For 182 days, she has grown, learned and connected with people from around the world – what remains is the final step before she awakens to her full potential.

The audience beneath Al Wasl’s awe-inspiring dome – home to the world’s largest 360-degree projection surface – will also put the focus on the next generation, as Expo exclusively invites hundreds of children from across the UAE to witness the wonders as the country looks to the next 50 years, having celebrated its Golden Jubilee during Expo 2020 Dubai.

Later in the evening, Grammy-winning cellist Yo-Yo Ma will play a concert at Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre from 20:45 GST; celebrated Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and pianist Norah Jones will entertain visitors with her own concert on the Jubilee Stage from 21:00 GST; and pop legend Christina Aguilera will present an extended performance on the Jubilee Stage from 22:45 GST.

The cast of the Closing Ceremony includes more than 400 professionals and volunteers from 56 different countries, with 745 costumes created for the culmination of Expo 2020 Dubai. Forty members of a UAE-based children’s choir will perform Ishy Bilady, the National Anthem of the UAE, joined by the all-women Firdaus Orchestra, conducted by Yasmina Sabbah.

Also taking the stage will be the Expo 2020 World String Ensemble, a group of 16 talented international musicians led by maestro Harout Fazlian, and talented Italian pianist Eleonora Constantini, familiar to many Expo 2020 Dubai visitors as the performer behind the amazing Flying Piano show at Mission Possible – The Opportunity Pavilion.

ALSO READ: ‘Thank you’ campaign celebrates Expo volunteers

The Closing Ceremony, streamed live on Virtual Expo and Expo TV, will also remind audiences of some of Al Wasl Plaza’s iconic moments, including calligraphy poetry in the sky from Emirati poetess Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi; the falcon from immersive theatrical show Journey of the 50th, which was presented during the UAE’s Golden Jubilee celebrations; and the incredible horse from The Boy and The Horse, a tribute to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

As Expo 2020 Dubai looks to the future, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, will hand the BIE Flag to Ambassador Jai-chul Choi, President of the General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), who will then present it to representatives of Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai.

The celebrations will continue throughout the night, with more jaw-dropping fireworks displays at midnight and 3:00 GST.

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Africa News Dubai EXPO 2020

Liberia celebrates National Day Expo 2020

Liberia celebrates National Day Expo 2020(WAM)

Liberia celebrated its Expo 2020 Dubai National Day on Saturday with a visit by Dr. George Manneh Weah, President of the Republic of Liberia…reports Asian Lite News

Dr Weah was welcomed by Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai, and Reem Al Hashemy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai.

George Weah said: “The theme of our pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai is ‘Open and Business-Ready Liberia’ and embraces the idea that investment is an essential component of sustainable national economic growth and development. Liberia seeks to expand its potential in many areas, including the financial sector, in addition to sectors like tourism, agriculture and fisheries, which are yet to be exploited.

“I therefore use this opportunity to urge UAE investors to come to Liberia and tap into these traditional and virgin sectors, which will help us fill Liberia’s huge infrastructure deficit and foster economic development in Liberia.”

Sheikh Nahyan said: “Through its participation in Expo 2020 Dubai, Liberia demonstrates the significant development strides it has made in recent history, such as leading the way on women’s rights, as well as economic reform. The pavilion also promotes the vast opportunities Liberia offers across multiple industries, such as agriculture, tourism and infrastructure development.” “The UAE is proud to share continuously developing relations with Liberia, and we look forward to witnessing greater opportunities for collaboration between our two countries in the near future, for our mutual benefit and prosperity.”

Liberia celebrates National Day Expo 2020(WAM)

A cultural performance by the National Dance Ensemble of Liberia followed the speeches, featuring a drum concert and a traditional song about peace and unity, before Liberia’s Cultural Ambassador Juli Endee and well-known singer Janet Cole sang the Liberia Pavilion’s official Expo 2020 Dubai song.

The Liberia Pavilion, located in the Opportunity District, showcases the beauty of the country and the untapped potential in agriculture, tourism and infrastructure development. The pavilion, filled with beautiful woven fabric patterns, allows visitors to find out more about Liberia’s history and what the future looks like for the West African nation.

Liberia celebrates National Day Expo 2020(WAM)

National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of Expo’s 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming.

Expo 2020 Dubai will be held until March 31, 2022, and invites visitors from all over the world to create a new world together, in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture. (WAM)

ALSO READ: ‘Thank you’ campaign celebrates Expo volunteers