DIT foreword
Barrie Harris , Sector Manager , Services and Skills
Department for International Trade
The UK has a long and proud tradition of participation in World Expos , right back to hosting the Great Exhibition in 1851 – the first ever Expo . In the modern era and as a member of the Bureau International des Exhibitions , we hosted the Horticultural Expo in Liverpool in 1984 and more recently received recognition through gold awards for pavilions at World Expo 2015 Milan and at World Expo 2010 Shanghai .
It may come as no surprise therefore that when Dubai was awarded the honour of hosting the 2020 World Expo , the UK was keen to play its part and explore with the organisers how we might help them meet this great challenge and deliver a truly memorable event .
It is testament to the superb skill and dedication of the local organisers and the assortment of local and international suppliers involved that , despite the immense challenges created by the global pandemic , the Expo went ahead -albeit following a postponement - to account for travel bans to help halt the spread of the serious infection .
Delivering a successful Expo was a Herculean task with the event attracting visitors from the immediate region but also globally all eager to take-in the inspiring pavilions and sample the unique atmosphere , entertainment and cultural festivities laid on by the organisers and the 192 countries that participated – all with their own pavilions for the first time in Expo history – helping to create a rich mix of unique and iconic architecture , awe inspiring entertainment and groundbreaking innovation .
The UK is regarded as the largest overseas supplier to the Dubai World Expo and DIT was proud to have helped a host of British companies secure expo-related projects ; many were working alongside the Expo organisers and collaborating with local and international partners to deliver a diverse range of expertise and services .
This brochure provides you with a guide to a host of UK companies that worked on the Dubai Expo and explains how they successfully delivered projects across the Expo eco-system . British input into the Expo ranged from feasibility and master planning , to producing ground-breaking iconic architecture through to innovative and thought-provoking technology used in the pavilions and as part of the unforgettable ceremonies to help deliver this global spectacular .
These companies are a demonstration of the breath of expertise the UK can offer to decision-makers looking to bid for or organise future Expos . The experience and expertise set out within these case studies spans various sectors demonstrating the kaleidoscope of services UK industry can offer and why the UK is the ideal partner to help you deliver major events across the cultural , sports and creative industries .
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6 DIT foreword