Saudi Arabia plans to transform the site of Expo 2030 Riyadh into a permanent, sustainable global village once the six-month world fair ends, officials said on Tuesday, as countries begin locking in their presence at the flagship event, with eight nations, including the US, already securing pavilion space.
The details were disclosed during a media briefing for Expo 2030, held on the sidelines of the Saudi Media Forum in Riyadh.
The briefing was attended by chief executive officer of Expo 2030 Riyadh Company Talal Al-Marri and Director General of the Center for Government Communication Abdullah Al-Maghlouth, along with several officials and specialists.
Al-Marri said the site would be fully prepared by 2029, allowing participating countries to begin early preparations ahead of the opening of the global event. He added that eight countries have already reserved pavilion plots, among them the US.
Infrastructure
Work is progressing steadily to prepare the site. In 2025, the government awarded the main infrastructure development contract and deployed a fleet of heavy equipment.
Excavation and landfill works have been carried out over an area of 1.5 million square meters, and construction of hotels dedicated to the exhibition is expected to begin later this year.
The anticipated event, described by organizers as one of the largest international platforms for bringing countries together, is under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow.” The exhibition will run from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031.
The event, overseen by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), will be held on a six-million-square-meter site north of Riyadh, near King Salman International Airport.
Organizers expect more than 40 million visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom, along with broad participation from international institutions and governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Sustainable development
Expo 2030 aims to host 197 countries and 29 organizations, with more than 230 pavilions addressing significant global challenges and presenting innovative solutions to build a more sustainable future.
The exhibition is designed as a global platform for sharing ideas and expertise on the future of sustainable development and international cooperation, highlighting innovation, culture, and scientific and technological progress.
Events will include a mix of interactive exhibitions, intellectual forums, advanced technology showcases, and dialogue platforms bringing together governments, companies, non-profit organizations, and universities.
Cultural and entertainment programs reflecting the diversity of global cultures and human history will also be featured.
The site’s design draws inspiration from nature and Riyadh’s historical heritage, is built around an ancient valley, and is inspired by the concepts of the oasis and the garden to reflect harmony between nature and urban progress.
The exhibition has been planned as a fully walkable experience, with public facilities and leisure spaces carefully designed to enhance visitor comfort and engagement across pavilions and open areas.
Solar energy
Among the site’s key design features are 226 spherical pavilions, arranged to reflect the philosophy of international cooperation and cultural harmony among nations.
Shaded walkways and green gardens have also been incorporated into public spaces, providing a comfortable environment for visitors and underscoring Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices.
All participating countries will contribute to preparing the pavilions, allowing each nation to showcase its culture, achievements, and future ambitions.
Expo 2030 Riyadh is also built around sustainable environmental strategies, including solar energy, natural resource management, water treatment solutions, and waste recycling, to become one of the world’s most sustainability-focused expos.
The event’s program will address themes such as climate action, prosperity for all, and a better tomorrow, reflecting key issues on the global sustainable development agenda.
Expo 2030 Riyadh reflects the Kingdom’s ambition to position itself as a global hub for knowledge, cultural, and economic exchange. It represents a central milestone in its long-term transformation under Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy and strengthening its role on the global stage.
