EXPO 2020 DUBAI: PULLING OUT ALL STOPS

The global event aims to become a strategic platform for India’s HoReCa sector to meet suppliers, build on key relationships and influencers in the hospitality industry

- VINITA BHATIA

‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’ – that is the overarching theme of Expo 2020 Dubai, the extravagant global event that the UAE government unveiled in October 2021 after years of thoughtful planning. With the participation of 192 countries, each week, it focuses on topics like travel, climate, education, health, etc., to bring in thousands of visitors to the city, boosting its tourism and showcasing UAE’s economic prowess.

Sumathi Ramanathan, VP-Market Strategy and Sales, Expo 2020 Dubai tells Vinita Bhatia how it is a great opportunity for India’s HoReCa community to showcase their talents, offerings and investment opportunities, on a global and internationally engaged stage.

What can India’s HoReCa sector look forward to from Expo 2020 Dubai – from the lens of exhibitors or visitors?

Dubai is already acting as a gateway to India (its second-largest trading partner), Africa, and Latin America. With Expo 2020’s capital expenditure at AED25 billion, this investment will spur wider economic impact in key sectors, including tourism, hospitality, and business services.

Expo 2020 Dubai has leveraged the UAE’s position as a global nexus point to convene more than 200 participants and millions of visitors, to inspire meaningful change and create a brighter future for us all. Leveraging Dubai’s world-class infrastructure and business-friendly regulatory frameworks, it has acted as a catalyst - opening up new markets and opportunities - with an extensive business programming calendar that is purpose-built to attract investment, forge new partnerships and promote international cooperation.