The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow
Riyadh Expo 2030 is set to be a landmark event, bringing together nations, industries, and innovators from around the world.
The Expo will serve as a platform to explore solutions for global challenges, showcase cutting-edge technologies, and promote international collaboration. Saudi Arabia is preparing to host this prestigious event, which is expected to draw millions of visitors both in person and virtually.
A Historic Opportunity for Saudi Arabia
Hosting Expo 2030 in Riyadh will solidify Saudi Arabia’s position on the global stage, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification, sustainability, and innovation. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Saudi Arabia seeks to host Expo 2030 in Riyadh to deliver an unprecedented experience in the history of this event for a better future for humanity.”
The Expo will be held from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031, providing a six-month window for countries, businesses, and thought leaders to exchange ideas and showcase their contributions to building a sustainable and prosperous future.
The Theme
The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow
Riyadh Expo 2030 will focus on the theme ‘The Era of Change’, emphasizing how societies can work together to address global challenges through innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. Saudi Arabia is determined to use the event as a platform to share its remarkable transformation under Vision 2030 with the rest of the world. The Expo will include pavilions from over 226 countries, each contributing unique perspectives on future solutions.
Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al-Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, highlighted the importance of the event by saying, “Choosing Saudi, choosing Riyadh, is choosing the world.” This theme sets the stage for dialogue on critical global issues such as climate change, economic development, and technological advancements.
30 million expected visitors in person
Attractions and Pavilions, a World of Innovation
The Riyadh Expo 2030 will showcase a diverse range of pavilions and attractions that reflect the creativity and innovation of countries around the globe. The Expo will feature groundbreaking technologies in sustainability, clean mobility, and renewable energy. Visitors can explore green neighborhoods, futuristic transportation systems, and cultural exhibitions that highlight both heritage and modernity.
One of the key attractions will be the Saudi Pavilion, which will span over 50,000 square meters. This state-of-the-art pavilion will highlight the Kingdom’s progress in sustainability, urban development, and technological innovation. It will serve as a central hub for showcasing Saudi Arabia’s advancements in clean energy, smart cities, and environmental conservation.
Ghida Al-Shibl, a member of the Riyadh Expo 2030 organizing team, said, “As host, we will create a world-class site expo to enable you to build pavilions and experiences in a way that matches your national priorities and aspirations.”
Economic Impact, transforming Riyadh and Beyond
The economic impact of hosting Expo 2030 will be monumental. Saudi Arabia has allocated $7.8 billion for infrastructure and key projects to support the event. These investments will lead to the creation of over 200,000 jobs across various sectors, contributing to long-term economic growth in the Kingdom. In addition, the event is expected to attract 30 million visitors in person and a further 100 million through the metaverse, showcasing Riyadh as a city of the future.
The Kingdom is also focusing on expanding its hospitality sector to accommodate the influx of international visitors. By the time the Expo opens, hotel capacity in Riyadh will increase by 70,000 new rooms, ensuring that visitors experience world-class services during their stay.
100 million virtual visitors via the metaverse
Sustainability at the Core
Saudi Arabia is raising the bar for sustainability with the Riyadh Expo 2030. As part of its Vision 2030 goals, the Kingdom aims to reduce its carbon footprint and increase green space through projects like the Green Riyadh Program. The Expo site will be powered by renewable energy sources and will include extensive green spaces that contribute to improving air quality and reducing energy consumption.
Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of the Diriyah Group, commented, “Diriyah will be very famous by 2030, and the city of Riyadh will be unrecognizable.” The Expo will be a symbol of the Kingdom’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable urban development.
200,000 jobs created through Expo projects
The Metaverse Experience
For the first time in World Expo history, Riyadh Expo 2030 will integrate the metaverse, allowing millions of virtual visitors to experience the event from anywhere in the world. This innovative approach will include virtual tours of pavilions, interactive exhibits, and live-streamed performances, making the Expo accessible to a global audience.
Key Milestones and Future Outlook
Riyadh Expo 2030 promises to be a transformative event for Saudi Arabia and the world. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration, the Expo will serve as a catalyst for addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. From cutting-edge technology to immersive cultural experiences, visitors will leave with a renewed sense of optimism and inspiration for the future.
As Ghida Al-Shibl noted, “By February 2028, participant parcels and the expo village will be open. We will fast-track all necessary requirements, including imports, visas, and regulations.”
Riyadh Expo 2030 at a Glance
| Statistic | Detail |
| Dates | October 1, 2030 – March 31, 2031 |
| Estimated No. of Pavilions | 226 pavilions |
| Expected Visitors (In Person) | 30 million |
| Expected Visitors (Metaverse) | 100 million |
| Cost | $7.8 billion |
| Positive Economic Impact | 200,000 jobs created, significant boost to hospitality and tourism sectors |
| Key Attractions | Saudi Pavilion, green neighborhoods, futuristic transportation systems |
| Key Countries Exhibiting | Saudi Arabia, USA, UK, France, China, Japan, Germany, UAE, Italy |
| Saudi Pavilion | 50,000 square meters, focus on sustainability, clean energy, and smart cities |
| Theme | The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow |