Another major event in the attractions sector looks set to be postponed, due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The organisers of Expo 2020 Dubai are looking to postpone the event until 2021, in order to give the world time to recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
Expo 2020 have said that they will be working with the World Expo governing body Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) and it’s member states, in order to establish a change in dates, with the final decision being that of BIE.
Expo 2020 said the top priority is to “keep everybody involved in this Expo healthy and well,” and they continue to follow guidance from local health authorities and the World Health Organisation.
“The global situation is fast-moving, and remains unpredictable,” Reem Al Hashemy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General, Expo 2020 Dubai.
“Over the last several weeks, we have been consulting with key UAE and international stakeholders to review the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on our plans and preparations for Expo 2020 Dubai.”
Many of the countries that were due to participate in Expo 2020 have been significantly impacted by the outbreak of COVID-19. Those countries affected have expressed the need to postpone the event in order to help them overcome the challenges they are facing and will continue to face for the foreseeable future.
Dimitri S. Kerkentzes, Secretary-General of BIE, welcomed Expo 2020 organiser’s decision.
“The UAE’s decision to support a one-year postponement demonstrates pragmatism, openness, and commitment to delivering an Expo that lives up to our shared ambition,” he said.
“We retain full confidence in the UAE’s ability to host a World Expo that inspires and delights millions when the time is right.”
