Expo 2023 Doha is making history as the first A1 International Horticultural Exhibition to be held in Qatar, and in the MENA region – indeed, the first to be held in a desert climate.
The Need for Expo 2023 Doha
The six-month long event is a collaboration between the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) and the International Association for Horticultural Producers (AIPH). BIE is the intergovernmental organisation in Paris that oversees and regulates international exhibitions that last over three weeks and are of non-commercial nature.
Expo 2023 Doha will attract international visitors and feature participation from 80 countries and NGOs. The Expo is developed under Qatar National Vision 2030 and is being organised by the Ministry of Municipality. The theme is ‘Green Desert, Better Environment’, addressing the challenges faced by hot desert nations with regard to desertification and sustainability. Historically, greening the desert was a challenge. It is now possible to achieve, and can be the answer to global water, energy, and food scarcity problems.
One-third of the world’s land surface is threatened by desertification and an additional 12 mn hectares of arid land is emerging each year. Desertification has become a pressing global issue, affecting the livelihoods of millions of people who rely on the benefits of ecosystems that drylands provide. As land becomes more arid, so people will migrate from rural to urban areas, causing both an environmental and economic problem.
To achieve – and maintain – a green desert, there is a need for a platform where people can come together to exchange information, technology and innovations. Visitors will be inspired to explore and adopt change through four sub-themes: modern agriculture, technology and innovation, environmental awareness and sustainability. Expo 2023 Doha will also aim to attract cutting-edge global technologies and foster international collaborations to achieve goals.
With the event lasting six months, it has the potential to create an exceptional and lasting impact. The organisers and the ministry have worked on a strong thematic programme that involves a number of international specialised agencies and organisations. The overarching aim is to leave behind a substantial legacy and surpass the achievements of previous horticultural expos.
The International Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha officially opened at Al Bidda Park on 2 October 2023 with a grand celebration of global unity and sustainable development, in the presence of The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, members of the Qatari royal family and ministers, international heads of government and diplomats, and prominent members of the business community.
Expo 2023 Doha has something for everyone!
The event is expected to attract 3 mn visitors and will take place in the beautiful Al Bidda Park, spanning 1.7 mn sq m and overlooking the waters of the Arabian Gulf. There will be a slew of activities and entertainment suitable for everyone: business visitors, horticulture enthusiasts, tourists, families, and children.
On offer will be the extensive gardens in the park, thought-provoking talks, conferences, art and F&B choices. Facilities include congress and exhibition centres, a family amphitheatre, domes with indoor gardens, a cultural bazaar, a farmers market, an environment centre and biodiversity museum, and a grandstand arena.
One particular highlight of the event will be the National Day celebrations, to take place on 18 December, to include a flag-raising ceremony with international official delegations in attendance.
There is also the Bicycle and the Future of Mobility – Qatar Auto Museum exhibition, where visitors can explore the evolution of mobility, from bicycles to cutting-edge tech, via exhibits, workshops and talks.
Expo 2023 Doha is divided into three distinct areas, with up to 4,000 volunteers on hand to assist visitors.
The International Zone, located in the northern part of the park, serves as the gateway to the expo and the main hub for international gardens, exhibitions, and events, covering approximately 700,000 sq m. The zone allows visitors to experience numerous cultures and traditions from around the world.
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The Family Zone occupies a central position within the park, providing a focal point for daily family-oriented activities, eco-workshops, gatherings, outdoor pursuits, and food festivals, across an estimated 500,000 sq m.
The Cultural Zone is in the southern zone, and is a venue for daily cultural, traditional, nature and sports activities, over an area of approximately 500,000 sq m.
Expo 2023 Doha is scheduled to run until 28 March 2024 – at 179 days, this is the second-largest event Qatar will host after the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM. The Expo promises to be yet another successful international event in Qatar!
For more information, call 184, visit dohaexpo2023.gov.qa, follow updates on our website and social media channels.
Author: Sarah Palmer
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