Dubai welcomed the world as it opened the doors to Expo 2020, the greatest show on earth. A glittering line-up of stars left the audience spellbound. The 3,000-strong audience, as well as the millions across the globe who tuned in to virtually view the eagerly awaited event, will remember the opening ceremony for a long time to come.

More than 430 locations across the UAE streamed Expo 2020 Dubai’s star-studded opening ceremony live. New York’s Times Square too witnessed the live broadcast of the ceremony, giving everyone the chance to participate in the mind-blowing spectacle.

With the golden ring of connectivity raised to the trellis of the magnificent Al Wasl Plaza, the most inclusive World Expo ever was officially underway. The golden ring is the inspiration for the Expo 2020 Dubai logo. The Al Wasl is the beating heart of the Expo site and was the spectacular setting for the captivating ceremony.

“A night that shortened distances.. united nations and cultures.. and established the position of Dubai and the UAE.. hello to the world.. welcome to the future.. welcome to people from everywhere to the Dubai Expo,” tweeted His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.

“As Expo 2020 Dubai begins, we look forward to experiencing the diverse cultures and innovations of all countries taking part. This event is a unique opportunity to showcase areas for growth and development, and explore solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges,” tweeted His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, declared the event open. “The world gathers in Dubai,” he tweeted.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, declared the event open. “The world gathers in Dubai,” he tweeted.

A platform to connect and collaborate

“Expo 2020 Dubai will provide a significant platform for all people to connect, discuss and work together,” said Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai. He welcomed the world to Expo 2020 Dubai – and to the UAE – in his speech.

“Together, we will convey, from the UAE to the world, on our 50th anniversary, a message of tolerance, coexistence and peace; a message of progress, prosperity and growth; a message of brotherhood, happiness and an unwavering will to create a brighter future for everyone.”

In addition to music from some of the most influential artists on the planet and a beautiful live orchestra, a sensory overload of powerful visuals was beamed across Al Wasl Plaza’s dome, the world’s largest 360-degree projection screen. More than 3,000 lighting fixtures, 1,000 speakers, 1,300 costumes and buckets of passion and emotion from every one of the 1,000-plus participating performers and volunteers also contributed to a one-of-a-kind spectacle of masterful artistic collaboration.

Expo 2020: The world unites for a cause

The flags of Expo’s 192 participating nations were revealed via a domino effect as flags were opened one by one. It was a proud and visually stunning moment that also signified a reawakening of the world.

“All the world is coming together, for the first time since the pandemic began, to connect, to exchange and to learn on this extraordinary global stage,” said Dimitri S. Kerkentzes, Secretary-General, Bureau International des Expositions. “The time has now come to open Expo 2020 Dubai, an Expo that marks the era, that plays a defining role in the global recovery, and that contributes to a better future.”

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The glittering opening ceremony was followed a night later by three spectacular fireworks displays in Dubai. October 1 marked the first full day of the Expo in a fantastic visual celebration. The celebrations commemorated Dubai’s historic journey. The journey started from winning the bid in 2013 to opening the first World Expo in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region. Expo 2020 Dubai is the largest global event held since the start of the pandemic.

The incredible fireworks displays took place at Dubai Festival City, The Frame and The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah. Each venue presented its own unique celebrations. The Pointe and Dubai Festival City incorporated their fountains into dazzling light and sound show themed on Expo 2020. The Frame façade lit up in Expo colours. The flags of participating countries were also displayed at each of the venues.