The best Expo 2020 Dubai pavilions that you don’t want to miss!
- Opportunity District Pavilions
- Mobility District Pavilions
- Sustainability District Pavilions
- What’s More?
- FAQs
The most future-forward global expo in history is in full swing! With each nation showcasing the best of its offerings, you can expect to find plenty of wow-worthy Expo 2020 pavilions on your visit. The designs of the pavilions — many emanating from the talented imaginations of globally-acclaimed architects — are in line with the official themes of Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity. Here is everything you need to know about some of the best pavilions of Expo 2020 Dubai.
THE BEST EXPO 2020 PAVILIONS
More than 192 countries are taking part in Expo 2020. This means visitors can look forward to a vast range of pavilions.
OPPORTUNITY DISTRICT PAVILIONS
Opportunity is one of the three themes of the Expo, focusing on encouraging natural talent as an effective agent of change. Countries in the Opportunity District focus on channelising aspirations to shape a better global future.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
We begin our list of the best Expo 2020 pavilions with the UAE pavilion, designed by famed Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The structure was inspired by the country’s national bird — specifically a falcon. It features “wings” that mimic a bird’s wing in flight, the movement of which yields sustainable energy.
Inside the UAE Pavilion, visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of the country as well as its aspirations for the future. It’s part of the UAE’s endeavours to create a futuristic, progressive and peaceful society. The 1,5000 sq. m. pavilion overlooks Al Wasl Plaza – one of Dubai’s many EXPO 2020 projects.
SAUDI ARABIA
The Saudi Arabia Pavilion is the second largest at the Expo. And its all about natural landscapes, rich heritage and future possibilities. The LEED Platinum Certified structure portrays four main pillars representing people, nature, heritage and opportunities.
If you plan to visit the pavilion, don’t miss out on Vision space — a giant multi-faceted 30-metre diameter globe. The massive globe boasts an interactive floor that takes visitors on an incredible audiovisual journey. Explore the sights and sounds of the kingdom while discovering what local Saudi artists have to offer.
CHINA
Staying true to its roots, the China Pavilion in Expo 2020 is modelled like a traditional lantern. Innovative techniques and eco-friendly materials went into its construction.
A highlight is the exterior wall of the lantern-shaped structure — engineered to showcase China’s innovative movable printing inventions. The same converts into a dazzling array of digital lights at night, a spectacle you won’t want to miss.
PAKISTAN
Pakistan is home to one of the earliest civilisations. Experience the ultimate in hospitality, rich culture, heritage and sumptuous cuisine at the Pakistan pavilion at Expo 2020.
Be a part of concerts, regional events, exciting projects and lucrative investment opportunities featured in thematic weeks.
The Pakistan Pavilion has been making waves in Dubai since the Dubai Expo kicked off. Designed under the theme of “Pakistan’s Hidden Treasures”, the structure showcases exhibits that highlight the country’s diversity, landscape and history.
The Pavilion displays art installations and information about the government’s Tsunami project.
LUXEMBOURG
Explore the attractions, cuisine and culture of Luxembourg with its sustainable goals and enterprising spirit. Designed by Metaform, the Luxembourg pavilion at the Opportunity District has several attractions that you can’t miss!
One of the standout features is a whopping 21-metre slide. It is part of a tour that teaches visitors interesting facts about the small yet dynamic European country. The space ends at a beautiful atrium where visitors can either exit the exhibit via a walkway or the slide.
Discover the flavours of Luxembourg with tempting fusion cuisine served at the aptly named Schengen Lounge restaurant. Michelin-starred chef Kim Kevin de Dood manages the restaurant in partnership with Jumeirah Group and it’s one of the best places to dine at Expo 2020.
UNITED KINGDOM (UK)
The UK Expo 2020 pavilion, also called the ‘poem pavilion’, is a masterpiece by British designer and artist Es Devlin. The structure is built to highlight the prominence of the space sector and artificial intelligence in the United Kingdom. The dramatic pavilion features a glowing LED façade and is shaped like a conch shell.
The UK Pavilion gets its name by using artificial intelligence to create poems that form an illuminated ‘message to space’. What’s more exciting is that attendees who visit the pavilion can contribute to these AI-generated messages!
Apart from the structures mentioned above, there are various other country pavilions themed around Opportunity. These include pavilions from these countries.
- Bahrain
- Austria
- Egypt
- Colombia
- Japan
- Italy
- Indonesia
MOBILITY DISTRICT PAVILIONS
The Mobility District focuses on the power of networking. Connect with people from all over the world, learn different cultures and exchange ideas — that is the ethos of the district. Let’s take a look at the country pavilions within the Mobility District.
AUSTRALIA
The Australia Pavilion is shaped like a cumulus cloud as an ode to the diverse Australian landscape. It is designed by Bureau^Proberts. The country is a melting pot of different cultures as is apparent from the building’s design.
Australian Pavilion walks visitors through the country’s journey in technological advancements and modern-day discoveries. It showcases innovative water-saving technologies and hosts events that initiate discussions around global challenges.
BELGIUM
Located in Mobility District at Expo 2020, Belgium Pavilion is made in a ‘green arch’ representing the country’s equal emphasis on art and technology. It spans 500 sq. m. and offers visitors insight into industrial and technological innovations in the country.
Belgium Pavilion features exhibitions, a brasserie and even a kiosk that offers Belgian food. There is also a rooftop terrace and lounge area where visitors can enjoy views of the site.
RUSSIA
Russia’s pavilion at the Mobility District makes waves for its out-of-the-box creative economy concept. Designed by Tchoban SPEECH, the space focuses on the Russian minds, artists, inventors and musicians who have made a global impact.
From literary masterpieces by Tolstoy to the remarkable scientific discoveries by Mendeleev and the avant-garde artworks by Kandinsky — there’s plenty to discover and explore.
Be a part of the exhibitions, shows and an array of delicious food from Russia. Don’t forget to get a souvenir from the gift shop! You may want to get there early to beat the queue, or alternatively, you can use the Smart Queue option on the official Expo 2020 app.
FRANCE
Another pavilion in Mobility District worth mentioning is France, designed by Pérez-Prado+Celnikier & Grabli. At France Pavilion, you can enjoy daily light shows, savour French gastronomy and experience the culture as well as the art of the country. French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, who’s currently on Alpha Mission, will also be greeting participants from space!
Here are the other country pavilions that are themed around Mobility at Expo 2020 Dubai:
- Hungary
- Russia
- Poland
- Ireland
- Iran
- Tanzania
- Korea
SUSTAINABILITY DISTRICT PAVILIONS
The Sustainability Pavilion includes countries that are taking initiatives to preserve the environment with high-tech solutions. Let’s take a look.
SINGAPORE
Singapore Pavilion is all about urban innovations, green energy and sustainability. Designed by WOHA, the impressive net-zero-energy pavilion has plenty of events, food and other attractions. Based on the theme Nature, Nurture and Future, it has plenty to offer.
City in the Garden at the Singapore pavilion at Expo 2020 is one of the main exhibits you can explore. The City in the Garden is a three-dimensional green space flanked by forest trees and the mesmerising Hanging Garden — one of the best Expo 2020 exhibits.
The stunning Canopy Walk is another reason why the Singapore pavilion merits a visit. Take a stroll through the Ground Garden filled with the sights and sounds of nature. The Rainforest Cone is another lush attraction that takes visitors across a sustainable rainforest. Visitors can also visit the Sky Market — a multipurpose deck above the Garden Cones.
SPAIN
The conical-shaped Spanish Pavilion is hard to miss, designed by Amann-Canovas-Maruri. These cones are engineered to facilitate acoustic and thermal insulation. The structure is constructed entirely from recyclable materials like fabric, iron and wood. This Dubai Expo 2020 pavilion also features an exhibition area in the basement that connects to the different entertainment spaces.
The Spain pavilion Expo 2020 revisits the country’s Hispanic-Arab history as well. This is meant to be an ode to the “Golden Age” of ethnic and religious tolerance circa 711-1492.
SWEDEN
The Sweden pavilion in Expo 2020 is designed by three different Stockholm-based architects – Studio Adrien Gardere, Luigi Pardo Architetti and Alessandro Ripellino Architects. The nature-inspired Expo 2020 pavilion will make you feel like you’re walking through the Nordic forests with intricate eastern and western influences.
With tall posts resembling tree trunks, elevations inspired by tree houses and wooden lattice screens reminiscent of Islamic geometric design that create a dazzling light display — visitors are in for a one-of-a-kind immersive experience that displays Sweden’s connection with Mother Nature.
BRAZIL
One of the most immersive pavilions in Expo 2020 Dubai is Brazil. Its design is a collaboration between three renowned architecture firms – MMBB, Ben-Avid and JPG.ARQ. The structure was made with lightweight white fabric that doubles as a projection screen — turning the pavilion into a massive amphitheatre.
The pavilion is surrounded by a shallow pool which, combined with immersive visuals will transport visitors to Brazil. You can experience the best of nature that Brazil offers in the form of gushing rivers, azure skies, lush green vegetation and endless landscapes, all of which are on display at the Expo 2020 site.
Some of the other country pavilions themed around Sustainability are as follows.
- Canada
- Germany
- Cuba
- New Zealand
- Romania
JUBILEE ZONE
The Jubilee Park in Expo 2020 also has a number of pavilions, including those themed around Portugal, Canada and Ireland.
MALAYSIA
Experience the sights and sounds of Malaysia at its official Pavilion at Dubai Expo. With its “Energising Sustainability” theme, Malaysia promises to balance socio-economic progress and offer solutions for environmental concerns for a sustainable future.
Visitors will be awestruck as there’s plenty to explore at this immersive pavilion. With more than 900 shows during the Expo, Malaysia will highlight its rich heritage and culture under its “Truly Asia” slogan. Be a part of the #MyButterflyEffect campaign that strives to create an impact by taking measurable actions towards safeguarding natural resources.
PORTUGAL
Portugal is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Now you can discover what this magnificent country has to offer at the immersive Portugal pavilion at Expo 2020. The buildings, modelled after a country known as a pioneer in globalisation, was designed by Saraiva E Associados.
Discover Portuguese music, arts and crafts at the various shows and programmes at the pavilion. Indulge in a literary experience with the Portuguese language or head to the restaurant to sample the country’s cuisine.
These are the other countries that have their pavilions at Jubilee Avenue at Expo 2020:
- Venezuela
- Argentina
- Uruguay
- Philippines
- Canada
- Panama
- Malaysia
- Ireland
- Hungary
AL FORSAN
Al Forsan Avenue is a tranquil attraction and home to Al Forsan Park, where visitors can unwind before continuing to explore all that Expo 2020 has to offer. It also features country pavilions. Here are the most popular ones.
JAPAN
Japan Pavilion has little to no long queues of people waiting outside. Thanks to the sophisticated reservation system that allows visitors to book a day in advance. It has a significantly larger visitor footprint than others for several reasons.
Locals, in particular, want to experience the unique Japanese culture up close. And it’s a haven for tech buffs as well with so many innovations to explore including a tsunami warning system explained through rows of toppling blue dominos that resemble a rising tidal wave. Anime fans are delighted to visit the Pavilion as well. It features an array of anime and manga from Pokemon to Gundam.
Japan is where innovation meets creativity and this is showcased at the Japan Pavilion at Al Forsan. The stunning structure is designed by NAGAYAMA Yuko/NTT FACILITIES, with a focus on combining traditional Arabesque and Asanoha patterns.
The Japan Pavilion is where visitors get to discover a truly immersive experience with bespoke smartphones that keep track of their interests. The data will be used to create a finale specific to that particular day and time.
Another highlight is the Infinity Mirror Room, a unique attraction that juxtaposes visitors’ images and global challenges. That’s not all. The Japan Pavilion is available online as well!
It offers the ultimate virtual experience that allows guests from around the world to explore the pavilion and its attractions virtually.
You can also visit these pavilions at Al Forsan.
- India
- Isreal
- Italy
- Kazakhstan
- Palestine
- USA
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO SEE AND DO AT EXPO 2020?
VERTICAL FARM
Just when you think that Expo 2020 cannot get any better, you find more reasons to visit! There is plenty of food served at the event and a lot of it will be sourced from the world’s largest vertical farm. In collaboration with Emirates Flight Catering, Expo 2020 also showcases sustainable cuisine, made from the freshest produce.
ROPELESS ELEVATORS
Astonished by the creativity and technology used to build the stunning Expo 2020 pavilions? Wait until you see the world’s first ropeless elevator. Engineered to maximise the potential of magnetic technology, this innovative elevator will wow you with its unique features. It also moves sideways!
CELEBRATIONS
For the entire 151-day duration of the event, there are various Expo 2020 activities and celebrations scheduled. Expo 2020 has announced 60 events that are to be hosted daily. However, that is just a part of the celebrations. The Expo 2020 falls within Christmas, Chinese New Year, New Year’s Eve and the UAE National Day. Each of these festivals promises to bring action-packed celebrations and entertainment for everyone in attendance.
FAQs
HAS THE EXPO 2020 BEGUN?
Yes, it has! The Expo 2020 started welcoming guests from 1st October 2021 and will continue to dazzle until 31st March 2022.
HOW MANY PAVILIONS ARE IN EXPO 2020?
There are 200 pavilions in Expo 2020, out of which 191 are representative of participating countries.
WHICH PAVILIONS CAN YOU FIND IN EXPO 2020?
Apart from those listed, you can find the following pavilions at Expo 2020.
- India Pavilion Expo 2020
- USA Pavilion Expo 2020
- Italy Pavilion Expo 2020 (Italian Expo 2020)
- Turkmenistan Pavilion Expo 2020
- Kazakhstan Pavilion Expo 2020
- Expo 2020 Egypt Pavilion
That’s all we have on the fantastic Expo 2020 pavilions. Apart from pavilions, you can find plenty of space-themed displays at Expo 2020. Try the Expo 2020 visitor app to get the latest information about events, activities, timings and more. There is no shortage of tempting food and beverages as there is an array of cafes and restaurants at the Dubai Expo.
Those from countries outside of the UAE to attend the event can book rooms in the hotels near Expo 2020.
Cover Image Credits: Expo 2020 official website
