Expo 2020 Theme Pavilions Selected

The competition was launched in July 2015 by Emaar Properties on behalf of Expo 2020. Thirteen architectural firms vied for the three thematic pavilions – Opportunity, Mobility, and Sustainability – that are meant to address Expo’s 2020 broader theme of "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future." BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group will design the Opportunity Pavilion, Foster + Partners will design the Mobility Pavilion, and Grimshaw Architects will design the Sustainability Pavilion. 

According to a statement from Expo 2020, "Pavilions and their iconic architecture are central to World Expos, and the three pavilions will be centrepieces that showcase the latest ideas, innovations and developments whilst providing the visitors with an immersive and memorable experience." Expos are increasingly criticized as wasteful excesses, primarily due to the temporary nature of their pavilions, but the three themed pavilions are being designed to "live on as landmarks and functional structures after the Expo is complete in 2021."

Dubai was selected for Expo 2020 in late 2013 under the theme "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future" and with a master plan design by HOK. "The three pavilions," per the Expo 2020 statement, "will form centrepieces of the two square kilometre Expo site, surrounding the central Al Wasl meeting plaza, the figurative and literal heart of Expo 2020."

His Excellency Mohamed Alabbar, Expo Higher Committee member and Chairman of Emaar Properties, said in the announcement: "The winning theme pavilion designs further build on the UAE and Dubai’s proven record in iconic architectural design, particularly when considering their long-term functionality, sustainability and contribution to Expo 2020’s legacy and Dubai’s long-term development."

Expo 2020 estimates indicate 250 participants ("countries, international organisations, NGOs, educational institutions and business entities") that will attract 25 million visitors over its six-month duration.