United States Joins Expo 2030 Riyadh as Official Participant

On the sidelines of the 20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Atlanta, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed an agreement establishing a framework for U.S. participation in Expo 2030 Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The accord confirms the United States as an official participant in the exposition and outlines a formal mechanism for both nations to advance preparations for the global event. The agreement also highlights the expo’s goal of strengthening international cooperation and deepening partnerships among participating countries ahead of the six‑month exhibition.

Saudi Ambassador to the United States Princess Reema bint Bandar attended the meeting. Saudi Arabia secured the right to host Expo 2030 in November 2023 after winning the bid during the 173rd General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions in Paris, receiving 119 of 165 eligible votes in the first round and defeating bids from Busan, South Korea, and Rome, Italy.

Expo 2030 Riyadh is scheduled to run from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031, under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow.” The event will focus on three sub‑themes: “A Different Tomorrow,” emphasizing science, innovation, and technological advancement; “Climate Action,” centered on sustainability and the transition to renewable energy; and “Prosperity for All,” promoting inclusive growth and balanced development.

The exhibition will be held on a dedicated six‑million‑square‑meter site north of Riyadh near the King Salman International Airport development. Organizers anticipate participation from more than 195 countries and international organizations, with visitor numbers projected to exceed 40 million. The master plan features a ring‑based layout designed to provide participating nations with equal visibility and access, while transport links—including the Riyadh Metro, express bus networks, and the expanded airport—are intended to facilitate high‑capacity public transit access.

Saudi authorities have also stated that the Expo is being developed as a net‑zero carbon event powered by clean energy and supported by green corridors and passive‑shading infrastructure. The event is widely viewed as a global showcase for the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 transformation agenda, expected to support tourism growth, infrastructure development, transport connectivity, and international business partnerships.

Expo 2030 Riyadh will be the first World Expo hosted by Saudi Arabia and the second registered World Expo staged in the Gulf region after Expo 2020 Dubai, which drew more than 24 million visits.

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