Even if Expo 2020 got officially postponed for a year from now, the show is getting ready for a bigger edition. In an exclusive interview with HN, Mohamed AlAnsaari, vice president, communications, Expo 2020 Dubai, spoke about the preps of the world’s most anticipated event.

How do you believe postponing the event will turn out positive?

Our purpose is to bring the world together in a spirit of solidarity and optimism for the future, and help address the challenges of a post-pandemic world. The UAE’s economy has shown resilience in the face of COVID-19, and hosting the Expo next year, as the global economy recovers, means Dubai is well placed to benefit from a resurgence of travel and tourism. Following the already historical impacts COVID-19 is having on global economies, Expo 2020 will provide a much-needed global platform to seek solutions to global challenges.

How do you think Expo 2020 gained brand equity even if it was postponed?

The postponement is a real vote of confidence and commitment to putting on an extraordinary Expo 2020 when the time is right. This remains the 2020 World Expo. The event has changed and moved in time, and will be different because of COVID-19, but keeping the original name will be symbolic. We continue to focus on hosting an incredible World Expo that amazes, entertains and above all inspires people by showcasing the best examples of collaboration, innovation and cooperation from around the world.  

How will you be continuing the preparations and what will you be changing?

Construction continues on the site. We are still on track to complete construction to our original deadlines, but we now have the opportunity to enhance the site and make sure that preparations are firmly in place well ahead of the new opening date. World Expos have always attempted to be true to their time, and we now have the chance for Expo 2020 to reflect the new realities of a post-COVID-19 world, as we continue in our purpose, which is to bring the world together to create solutions to global challenges.

Do you expect to attract new followers?

These are unprecedented times but we look forward to welcoming millions of visitors to Dubai from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022.

What do you promise the world in 2021?

An exceptional event. We believe that now, more than ever, humanity needs to come together. Expo 2020 Dubai will help to shape the emergence of a post-pandemic world like no other event.