Dubai is ready to host the World Government Summit as Expo 2020 enters its last few days, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said on Monday.
Sheikh Mohammed said the summit provides a platform to discuss new ideas and insights that can shape a better future for the world.
The two-day summit, being staged at Expo 2020 Dubai from Tuesday, is set to feature 4,000 participants and 30 international organisations from 190 countries.
Vice President and Ruler of Dubai
"The UAE is keen to share its development experience with other countries, as part of its constant endeavour to support initiatives aimed at advancing human prosperity," said Sheikh Mohammed.
"Our country will continue to support all forward-looking initiatives that aim to create a brighter future for our planet.”
This year the summit brings thought leaders, global experts and decision makers from around the globe to debate how the next generation of governments can harness innovation and technology to solve the challenges facing humanity today and in the future.
“The hopes of billions of people depend on the strategies, initiatives and proactive solutions provided by governments to face current and future challenges,” said Sheikh Mohammed.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, also on Monday attended several government sessions where he was briefed on preparations for the major event.
“Governments today need to innovate and enhance their systems to keep pace with global changes," said Sheikh Hamdan.
“The summit reflects Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to foster the development of an innovation-driven government that is ready to embrace the future.”
The key meeting will take place as the world’s fair draws to a close after six months.
Expo's closing ceremony on Thursday will run throughout the night and will feature fireworks and pop concerts that organisers believe will attract the event's biggest crowds yet.
Behind the Scenes of Al Wasl Plaza — in pictures
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A view of Al Wasl dome after midnight at Expo 2020 Dubai when the site shuts down to visitors. Pawan Singh / The National -
Visitors watch an immersive show at Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
People leave Expo 2020 Dubai after watching the final audiovisual shows at Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
When the Expo site closes to visitors, rehearsals begin under Al Wasl dome, also called the Expo's crown jewel. Pawan Singh / The National -
Crews prepare for the next day show during the night shift at Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
Technical and maintenance crews check the 30,000 lights that change colour in synch to the music in the sunken garden of Al Wasl Plaza. Pawan Singh / The National -
The view from one of two control rooms that manage the content beamed across Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
Inside the main control room, programmers work through the night to check audio and light effects for Al Wasl Plaza. Pawan Singh / The National -
The technical crew work with the spotlights during night rehearsals at Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
A view of the control room that oversees the stunning effects beamed across Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
The revolving stage inside Al Wasl dome is being readied at night ahead of a musical performance the next day. Pawan Singh / The National -
Content is curated in virtual reality and in audio studios that overlook Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
Technical teams run through the sequence of light and sound that lend an element of theatre to performances at Al Wasl dome. Pawan Singh / The National -
William Ainley, vice president, technical, for events and entertainment at Expo 2020 Dubai, says the night-time hours are precious for rehearsals. Pawan Singh / The National -
Al Wasl dome is quiet minutes before night rehearsals make it come alive. Pawan Singh / The National -
Coldplay perform beneath Al Wasl dome to a packed crowd. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai -
Thousands watch the Coldplay performance at Expo 2020 Dubai. Reuters -
Alicia Keys commands the stage. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai -
Amna Abulhoul, creative director, ceremonies, at Expo 2020 Dubai says the immersive dome has made a lasting impression on top music groups. Photo: Expo 2020 Dubai -
Singer Alicia Keys performs at Dubai Expo 2020 Dubai. AP -
The Black Eyed Peas perform at Expo 2020 Dubai. Reuters -
The Black Eyed Peas perform as the circular designs within Al Wasl dome take on a life of their own at Expo 2020 Dubai. Reuters
