DUBAI: The postponement of Expo 2020 Dubai is set to be approved by the Bureau International des Expositions, with the change of dates having already surpassed the required two-thirds threshold.
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Following a request from authorities in the United Arab Emirates to postpone the event in April, the international body put the matter to a vote. The result has been expected toward the end of this month.
However, it appears support for the move is widespread. Expo 2020 Dubai now appears set to take place from October 1st, 2021, running for six months to March 31st, 2022.
Organisers at Expo 2020 Dubai said the delay would allow the event to help shape a post-pandemic world.
A delay will allow all participants to safely navigate the impact of Covid-19, and permit the World Expo to focus on a collective desire for new thinking to identify solutions to some of the greatest challenges of our time.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum welcomed the decision to postpone Expo 2020.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee, said: “We welcome the decision of Bureau International des Expositions member states to support the delay Expo 2020 Dubai by one year.
“We are thankful to member states for their continued commitment to contributing to a World Expo in Dubai that will play a pivotal role in shaping our post-pandemic world at a time when it will be most needed.
“Over the last 50 years, we have sought to build bridges, connections, and partnerships around the world because we believe in genuine collaboration to safeguard the future of all.
“This swift and overwhelming vote reflects the strength of our international partnerships and truly reflects the positive role the United Arab Emirates and Dubai play with all countries around the world.”
He added: “This affirmation by the international community of Dubai’s offering and its ability to deliver, further strengthens our commitment to matching ambition with achievement to hosting an event that will capture the world’s imagination, when the time is right.”
While the vote remains open until May 29th, the two-thirds threshold was surpassed within a week of voting opening.
