Fifty of the most enthusiastic visitors to Expo Dubai 2020 were honoured in a ceremony on Sunday.
The attendants, some of whom had visited the event more than 75 times since it opened in October last year, were acknowledged for their support of the first world's fair to be held in the Middle East.
Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Co-operation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai, expressed her gratitude to them for participating in the Expo.
“Thank you for standing with us in light of these conditions and the Covid pandemic, as an integral part of the Emirati family,” she said to those being honoured.
“We hope, God willing, that the Expo will be the source of your trust and appreciation, and will leave you with unforgettable memories.
“I am truly grateful for you being with us in every step of this journey that we have shared together.”
The event was held in the Opportunity Forum and hosted by local influencer Walid Al Musrati. Each of the 50 people honoured was given a trophy to commemorate their many visits.
One recipient was sales worker Suha Yahya.
“I can’t describe how I feel about this event,” she said.
“I’ve been to Expo more than 40 times. I had a season ticket. Expo 2020 is a positive place, full of joy and beautiful activities, where I learnt about new cultures and things I did not know before.”
Also the proud owner of a new trophy was Ahmed Al-Derai who described the moment as “the most beautiful feeling".
“Just visiting the Expo site every day is a gift to me,” he said.
“I am a fan of learning about cultures, and what I learnt today will benefit me when I visit other countries. I would not have known all these things without Expo.”
Behind the scenes at the Gotham City pavilion: in pictures
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The Gotham City pavilion has opened within the Opportunity District of Expo 2020 Dubai. All photos: Antonie Robertson / The National -
The pavilion celebrates the coming release of 'The Batman', starring Robert Pattinson. -
Visitors are given the task of saving Gotham City by solving a series of riddles, with a shot at winning a prize from Batman’s private collection, with collectable posters, official film merchandise and special-edition comics up for grabs. -
With its exposed concrete walls, multi-monitor computer and chalk drawing-covered floor, the dimly lit pavilion pays homage to the famous Batcave. -
It's complete with life-size Batman statues and indoor Bat Signal projections. -
Visitors to the pavilion will also be able to watch the film’s official trailers and take pictures using special AR filters and Social Lens. -
'The Batman', directed by Matt Reeves, is set to hit cinemas across the UAE on March 3. -
Visitors to the pavilion will be able to book advance tickets for Vox screenings at the site or online via the app. -
Visitors admire the props and collectibles on show.
