HOT PROPERTY

A GLANCE AT JUST-OPENED RESORTS AND RETREATS TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT LUXURY GETAWAY

GEMMA GREENWOOD WORDS:

Get back to nature in Tanzania

Siringit Migration Camp by Mantis

This Bedouin-style luxury camp moves every few months in symbiosis with migrating herds, from the Mara River crossing in the Northern Serengeti, to the calving season in the Southern Serengeti. e mobile camp is operated by Mantis, a leading conservation-focused hotel group with luxury hotels, eco-lodges, waterways and impact experiences located around the world. Siringit camp is currently open in the Kogatende region (Northern Serengeti) where it will remain until November 15, 2021. It will then move to the Ndutu region (Southern Serengeti), reopening on December 15, 2021, where it will remain until March 31, 2022, which is when the herds start their migration north again. Both locations have their own private airstrip for guest arrivals and departures. ere are daily scheduled ights from Arusha or Seronera to Kogatende, and the airstrip is only a short 10-minute game drive direct to the camp.

e Bedouin-style camp has eight luxury guest tents positioned on raised platforms to provide guests with unobstructed views across the Serengeti wilderness. Each tent can accommodate up to two guests, while two can be interlinked to form a family tent for four. All tents have ensuite bathrooms with a double vanity. e camp also has a separate dining tent and lounge tent, which includes a selection of co ee table books and board games.

Undoubtedly one of the best-known wildlife sanctuaries in the world, the Serengeti National Park has the greatest concentration of plains game in Africa. e best time to travel is during the crossing season between July and November, and the calving season between January and March. However, there are opportunities all-year-round to experience the outstanding ecosystem of the region.

siringit.co.tz

Explore authentic New Orleans

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans

Rising above the mighty Mississippi River at the foot of Canal Street, this property, located in the 34-storey World Trade Centre, promises an “authentic and memorable New Orleans experience”. It’s also just steps from the historic French Quarter, the Warehouse Arts District and a myriad of parks and green spaces, and with direct access to the city’s streetcar line, visitors can really make the most of their time in the city. Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans is also being pitched as a premier dining destination, having partnered with acclaimed local chefs to introduce new restaurant concepts celebrating the South. ey include the glamorous Chandelier Bar, serving inventive drinks and showcasing local musicians; the Miss River, a “love letter to Louisiana”, with acclaimed New Orleans Chef Alon Shaya presenting his take on New Orleans classics, which include the showstopping salt-crusted Gulf red snapper; and Chemin a la Mer (pathway to the sea) by awardwinning chef Donald Link, serving up an enticing menu of steak and seafood dishes, executed with French techniques, set against panoramic views of the Mississippi. e hotel features 341 rooms and suites, 92 residences, a crescent-shaped roo op swimming pool with Mississippi River views; a 24/7 tness centre conceived by tness guru Harley Pasternak; and e Spa. ere’s also an art exhibition showcasing local artists and those inspired by the city, located across indoor and outdoor observation decks.

fourseasons.com

Embrace the Parisian lifestyle

Kimpton St Honoré Paris

The rst property in France under IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury boutique brand Kimpton, recently opened in the Opera district, a stone’s throw from Place Vendôme, the Paris Opera, Faubourg St Honoré & the Tuileries Gardens. It is housed in a former 1900s ‘Samaritaine de Luxe’ department store, which has been thoughtfully transformed into a sophisticated, easy-going luxury space by French architect and interior designer Charles Zana. In uenced by the 1930s Art Deco scene, the 123 stylish guest rooms and 26 beautifully designed suites are inspired by Parisian apartments with balconies, oor-to-ceiling windows and carefully selected works of art adding a splash of Kimpton’s bold design to the hotel’s interiors. e building’s striking original staircase and wooden elevator have been restored as standout features of the hotel. Dining venues are a highlight and include Montecito Restaurant & Bar, a contemporary brasserie in uenced by the multicultural cuisine of America’s Paci c West Coast with signature dishes including sh tacos, crunchy langoustine tostada, beef asada, and gourmet tru e pizzetta. ere’s a roo op bar and garden, Sequoia, too, with 360-degree views over the roo ops of Paris and its emblematic monuments such as the Ei el Tower and Opéra Garnier. Guests can also experience Kimpton’s signature perks such as the Kimpton Morning Kickstart, enjoyed in the hotel’s Mezzanine Library area, with co ee from Parisian roaster LOMI and tea from Kusmi Tea. In the same space, the much-loved Kimpton Social Hour is held daily at 5pm, providing guests an opportunity to connect with others over complimentary drinks. For relaxation and wellness, the hotel has an indoor heated swimming pool, a tness centre, and a spa run by French brand CODAGE. You can bring your pooch too, as Kimpton St Honoré Paris has partnered with luxury dog treat company Bonne & Filou to provide all four-legged guests with Dog Macarons upon arrival.

kimptonsthonoreparis.com

COMING SOON

FOUR SEASONS’ SHARM EXPANSION

One of the Red Sea’s most luxurious properties, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh, is undergoing a huge expansion and enhancement project, doubling its size to make room for more accommodation and facilities. When the enhancements are complete later this year, the mega resort will o er a large collection of suites, including multi-bedroom residence-style accommodations with private pools; five new food and beverage concepts; a renovated spa and new two-storey fitness centre; enhanced recreational facilities including a new PADI dive centre, plus tennis and squash courts; and a new children’s club. A new convention centre will more than double the resort’s event capacity, providing indoor and outdoor spaces for up to 2,000 guests.

FIVE BEACH

The former under-construction Corinthia hotel in Dubai has been acquired by FIVE and will be reflagged as FIVE Beach when it opens in 2023. With 227 suites, 102 serviced residences, seven culinary and nightlife venues, ReFIVE Spa, an “iconic social pool”, a private beach, and uninterrupted views of the sea and the Dubai Eye, FIVE Beach (pictured) is shaping up to become FIVE Hotels and Resorts’ most decadent experiential luxury lifestyle destination yet.

Experience a French take on the Maldives

Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

This mark’s the Paris-born hotel brand’s debut in one of the world’s most naturally blessed destinations. Located on the island of Thilamaafushi, in the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, it features 141 villas with one, two and three bedrooms, which are tucked amongst the tropical landscape or dotted across the Indian Ocean. Resort highlights include the Explore Spa by Le Méridien, two infinity pools and the Waves Lifestyle Hub – a boutique lifestyle space featuring an ocean-facing fitness studio and a yoga pavilion positioned high in the jungle, as well as Waves Café, an interactive creative arts studio, and a retail emporium showcasing handcrafted pieces. Of the six restaurants and bars, Tabemasu is a stunning ocean-side Japanese venue with a lively teppanyaki counter and a private openair pavilion where guests can try an Omakase tasting menu. Le Méridien’s signature ‘Au Soleil’ programme gives a nod to the hotel brand’s French roots, with guests treated to a “magical hour at the end of the day, under the sun”. Imagine Europeaninspired petit plates, specially designed rosé cocktails and Le Scoop by Le Méridien handcrafted gelato or sorbet with an Indian Ocean backdrop. Also unlocking the heart of the destination, The Marine Hub offers a range of conservation programmes including mangrove and seagrass protection and turtle identification and snorkelling with the marine biologist, with the opportunity for guests to name a turtle for themselves. Curious guests can also discover an aquatic playground at the resort’s house reef featuring four dive sites and a thila (sea mountain), all brimming with green and hawksbills turtles, various stingrays, shoals of colourful fish and many more unique reef dwellers.

The resort is a 35-minute seaplane journey north of Velana (MLE) International Airport, Malé.

Get a fresh perspective of Dubai

ME Dubai

ME Dubai, housed inside the Opus building and the only hotel to be fully designed both inside and out by the late Dame Zaha Hadid, has finally unveiled its portfolio of suites. Boasting Instagram-worthy views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai’s skyline, the most extravagant of the collection is Suite ME, a playground for fun and relaxation, with features including a sleek bar, stylish pool table and a jacuzzi in the bathroom. The Personality Suite, meanwhile, is designed to encourage freedom and self-expression. Expansive and well-lit, its striking interior is inspired by Dubai’s sand dunes and offers unique views into the void of the Opus and a fresh perspective of the Dubai cityscape. With a separate bedroom and lavish marble bathroom, it is already becoming a sought-after space in the city. Other options include the Passion Suite, meticulously designed with floor-to-ceiling windows capturing Dubai’s dazzling natural light and the city beyond, and the modernist Chic Suite, furnished with a cosy super-king-size bed, a spacious bathroom and dramatic landscape windows. In keeping with the brand’s commitment to providing up-to-the minute luxury living, all of the suites are equipped with latest in-room technology including integrated LED TVs and smart light and sound systems. A dedicated member of the Aura Team is also on hand to ensure guests have a memorable stay filled with hard-to-access cultural and dining experiences and stylish VIP touches.

With every suite characterised by curves, sharp angles and bold materials – a testimony to Hadid’s unique design style – ME Dubai promises an urban getaway with a unique design and lifestyle edge.

WORDS GEMMA GREENWOOD

PHOTOS: EXPO 2020 DUBAI O n October 1, the UAE made history when it opened the doors to Expo 2020 Dubai, the rst World Expo to be staged in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region.

Launching exactly one year later than scheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the exposition, themed ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’ through subthemes Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity, features 191 participating nations, special Expo pavilions, plus partner and organisation pavilions, opening up a world of possibilities to connect with new people, places and businesses and of course, to be inspired by world-leading innovations, outstanding architecture, the beauty of multi-culturalism, and much more.

World Expos are events that celebrate the spirit of humanity, bringing together the nations of the world to showcase bestin-class solutions designed to drive human progress and tackle global challenges.

In 1851, the rst World Expo, held at London’s Crystal Palace, showcased the ambition and optimism of the Industrial Age and ushered a new era of globalisation.

Some 170 years later, Expo’s role to foster dialogue and chart new courses remains, but as the 21st century unfolds, the opportunities and challenges the world faces are very di erent.

Population growth, rapid urbanisation and environmental damage are some of the most pressing issues, but the tools we have to tackle them are developing all the time, with new technology at the fore.

By taking a uni ed approach, we can all make a di erence, and that is Expo 2020 Dubai’s goal, encapsulated in the ‘Connecting Mind, Creating the Future’ theme, with each subtheme encompassing solutions and approaches to world challenges.

Opportunity is focused on unleashing human potential, highlighting how change is possible when individuals and communities from across the world work together to solve global issues.

INTERNATIONAL PAVILIONS

For the first time in World Expo history, every participating country has its own pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. With 191 nations taking part, it provides a unique opportunity to travel the world in one place, discovering new cultures, architecture and innovations. Each pavilion is also a meeting place to conduct business. Don’t miss our round-up of country pavilion highlights in our November issue.

Mobility aims to create smarter and more productive connections, encouraging knowledge sharing and facilitating the movement of people, things and ideas to progress society, while Sustainability throws the spotlight on our relationship with nature, highlighting world-leading e orts to harmonise our interactions with the environment.

e Expo site

Expo’s subthemes are embodied in the site’s design. A vast showcase spanning 4.38 square kilometres – the equivalent of 600 football pitches – the event is divided into three districts – Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability – as well as the Al Forsan and Jubilee zones, all meeting in the centre at Al Wasl Plaza, home to a giant dome that also serves as a 360-degree projection canvas.

Within each themed district is a themed pavilion: Mission Possible – e Opportunity Pavilion; Alif – e Mobility Pavilion; and Terra – e Sustainability Pavilion. All other pavilions, including those of international participants, organisations and o cial Expo partners, are located across all three districts, as well as the two zones, depending on their area of focus at Expo. e wider Expo event area is known as District 2020, which a er the event, will evolve into a smart city and mixeduse community. It will contribute to the UAE’s future vision for sustainable development, acting as an innovation ecosystem that nurtures high-growth sectors such as smart logistics, enabled by advanced technologies including the internet of things, AI, big data and 3D printing. Located in Dubai South, a new and expanding destination in the emirate, which is home the world’s largest airport, Al Maktoum International, District 2020 will be an integrated community designed to attract a wide range of entities, from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies – “a place for people and businesses to connect, create and innovate”.

For more information, visit district2020.ae and dubaisouth.ae.

EXPO HIGHLIGHTS

AL WASL

Al Wasl (‘the connection’), located at the centre of Expo where all three districts meet, is described as “the beating heart” of the event. If you are travelling by Dubai Metro Route 2020, you arrive at 2020 Plaza, which leads to Al Wasl Avenue (home to Rove Expo 2020 hotel and the Emirates NBD Bank of the Future) and into Al Wasl Plaza, where the magni cent Al Wasl dome awaits. One of Expo’s most striking landmarks, the trellised dome is a sunshield by day – it’s up to nine degrees Celsius cooler under its canopy – and one of the world’s largest 360-degree projection screens by night, courtesy of 250 state-ofthe-art projectors. Al Wasl shows are unforgettable immersive experiences screened daily, with incredible visual and sensory displays ranging from Isha prayer to unique storytelling.

Don’t miss…

The Beacons of Al Wasl ese 42 striking one-diameter bronze medallions, created by artists from around the world, are arranged in a ring around Al Wasl Plaza, shedding light on some of the UAE’s most poignant moments Stage of Nations Located under the dome, the stage hosts performances including the National Day Ceremonies of participating countries. Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) is new 45,000 sqm exhibition centre plays host to business sessions and forums throughout Expo and is accessed directly from the Dubai Metro. Why not check it out as a venue to stage your next meeting or event?

ABOVE: Al Wasl Plaza LEFT: Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC)

OPPORTUNITY

e Opportunity District underscores Expo 2020’s commitment to dismantling the barriers that stand in the way of achieving an equitable future, one where Mobility and Sustainability are achievable. Equal opportunities are also central to Expo, re ected in the fact that every country has its own pavilion for the rst time in the history of the exposition.

Don’t miss…

Mission Possible – The Opportunity Pavilion is pavilion represents the collective mission to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030, highlighting the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which encourage all of us to be agents of change. e spectacular fabric canopy covering this pavilion is an architectural highlight at Expo, as it reacts in di erent ways to wind, rain and sun. Inside you will learn how people from around the world have enhanced the lives of their communities through the innovative and resourceful use of water, energy and food. The Good Place by Expo Live Discover how social entrepreneurs

ABOVE: The Good Place by Expo Live LEFT: Mission Possible - The Opportunity Pavilion are identifying grassroots solutions to global challenges. The Nexus for People and Planet Be inspired by talks and lectures on Expo-related topics. The Sun Stage e place to watch live acts and performances by talented artists from around the world.

MOBILITY

is district’s exhibits explore the many ways that movement is creating our shared future. As a regional hub where travellers have converged and exchanged ideas, the UAE embodies mobility, but today, it’s pushing the boundaries further, with the Emirates Mars Mission exploring the possibility of living on the Red Planet. State-of-the-art transportation is showcased here too, from cutting-edge monocycles to solar-powered tricycles.

Don’t miss…

Alif – The Mobility Pavilion is pavilion takes you on a journey through time and space, charting the course of human movement and progress. It culminates with the

ABOVE: The Mobility Pavilion Emirates Mars Mission, a celebration of the UAE’s role in international exploration, and an immersive future cities showcase, created by children and exploring the limitless possibilities for mankind. Giants of Mobility Another Alif highlight, these giants are nine-metre-tall, life-like structures of people whose innovations have helped us to navigate the world and paved the way for the technology we use today. Designed by the team behind e Lord of the Rings, e Hobbit, Avatar and District 9, these incredible feats of cra smanship tell the story of humanity. Hazza Al Mansouri’s space suit Take a sel e as your face is beamed into the helmet of this legendary Emirati astronaut. Nissan As the O cial Automotive Partner of Expo, Nissan is showcasing its nextgeneration cars. e carmaker is also providing Expo’s eet of vehicles.

SUSTAINABILITY

e Sustainability District is a platform to share solutions designed to deliver change and to encourage us to act collectively to protect our planet. is district has been designed as a sustainable urban space, inspired by traditional Emirati neighbourhoods and featuring buildings that meet LEED Gold standards, one of the highest ratings achievable in sustainable construction. Look out for striking sculptures including ‘Hugs’, in Terra’s Courtyard and ‘Takween’ (‘formation’) in Terra Garden.

Don’t miss…

Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion is self-sustaining building generates 100 per cent of its water and energy needs and is designed to meet LEED ‘platinum’ green building accreditation, the highest possible sustainability rating of its kind globally. Its solar canopy spans

130 metres, converting sunshine into electricity for the exhibits below via 8,000 sqm of solar panels. Terra is surrounded by 18 Energy Trees, also clad in solar panels. e pavilion hosts events including science shows, cultural performances, inspirational talks and World Majlis conversations re ecting Expo’s commitment to sustainability. It is divided into multiple sections, from the Wadi and the Courtyard, which highlight the impact of humanity on nature and the Consumption Hall, illustrating the madness of human consumption, to the Laboratory of Future Values and the Core, which highlight the opportunities we have to protect the planet. Vision Pavilion Reveals the human inspirations behind the transformation of Dubai, from desert to metropolis. It embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, whose dedication and life’s work has shaped one of the world’s most dynamic and successful cities. The Women’s Pavilion Celebrates the important roles that women from around the world have played throughout history, illustrating that when women thrive, so does humanity. Sameem – Story of Our Culture is open-air pavilion reveals how the people of the UAE have always looked beyond the surface or the visible to create a brighter future. Explore the UAE’s mountains, desert and sea and engage with Emiratis to understand how their traditions have always been tied to the future.

ABOVE: There are 18 Energy Trees in the Sustainability District LEFT: Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion BELOW: The UAE Pavilion

AL FORSAN

Al Forsan is a hub for arts and culture, showcasing the best of the UAE, from its natural landscapes to its rich heritage.

Don’t miss…

The UAE Pavilion Joining the list of iconic Dubai landmarks, the UAE Pavilion, the brainchild of renowned architect, Santiago Calatrava, is designed in the shape of a falcon (a bird of cultural signi cance) taking ight. is magni cent structure, with 28 moveable wings that open and close gracefully, showcases the history of the UAE as a connected global hub and the vision of its leaders to create a peaceful and progressive society. e focal point inside the pavilion is e Pearl, a domed theatre presenting a moving cinematic experience that celebrates the UAE’s core values.

ENOC Pavilion O ers inspiring insights into the future of energy. ENOC is also operating the Service Station of the Future at Expo, serving the entire Expo 2020 eet during the event and members of the public when Expo closes, as part of District 2020, Expo’s legacy smart city. Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre Named a er the Dubai World Cup winning racehorse, this venue hosts cultural performances daily. Opera360 A walk-in installation taking you behind the scenes of the rst Emirati opera, Al Wasl Opera, involving more than 100 artists and musicians. DP World Pavilion Get a glimpse of the groundbreaking DP World Cargospeed, the hyperloop-based transport system of tomorrow. Emirates Pavilion Explore the future of aviation and design your very own aircra .

ABOVE: ENOC’s Service Station of the Future BOTTOM LEFT: Emirates Pavilion RIGHT: The World Souq

JUBILEE

Fun and exploration de ne the Jubilee zone, which is home to Jubilee Park, the 55-metre-high Garden in the Sky, a World Souq (market) and roaming pop-up entertainment, from jugglers and street performers to large-scale art installations.

Don’t miss…

Jubilee Park Named to honour the UAE’s 50th anniversary, this park features art, food venues, a playground and the Jubilee Stage where live performances take place regularly. e park’s design is inspired by the wadi, a seasonal river that springs to life in the desert a er heavy rains. ere’s also a 14-metrehigh water feature – step inside and enjoy an immersive water, light and re show set to music by Game of rones composer Ramin Djwadi. Garden in the Sky A 55-metre-high observation tower revealing panoramic views of Expo 2020. Tickets cost AED 30 and the ride to the top leaves every 10 minutes, taking one minute to ascend. e glass cabin rotates as it moves up and down, providing a unique perspective of Expo and beyond. Sabeel Fountains Expo 2020 has commissioned regional artists to celebrate the sabeel – neighbourhood water fountains o en found outside villas and mosques. ese specially curated works of arts not only provide free water, but honour this treasured aspect of Islamic heritage. Gourmet experiences Feeling hungry? Expo’s three main dining experiences are located in Jubilee: Alkebulan – e African Dining Hall, Tastes of the Gulf and Talabat Kitchen.

EVENTS

Expo 2020 Dubai is one giant stage for showcasing global cultures and entertainment and promises 182 days of epic performances and productions. For the most up-to-date line-up of events, it’s best to check the Expo website and/ or app, but highlights include the following: National and Honour Day Ceremonies: taking place throughout Expo, these celebrations honour each international participant’s culture and traditions (Stage of Nations). Live performances: primarily staged in Al Forsan and Jubilee Parks, expect live music, films and festivals involving local, regional and international talent (Jubilee Stage) and theatrical performances including ballet, dance and opera (Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre). Music in the Garden: artists invited by international participants are performing live in Al Wasl Plaza’s gardens on a regular basis. Al Wasl Shows: staged day and night in Al Wasl Plaza and include immersive light and sound experiences generated by Al Wasl’s mega projection dome.

Expo 2020 Dubai is being pitched as a “unique global platform to attract investments, forge agreements and promote international cooperation”. With 191 participating nations, each with their own pavilion, plus a host of major organisations, from the Gulf

Cooperation Council, Investment

Corporation of Dubai and the

League of Arab States, to the African

Union, ASEAN, Muslim World

League, all located on site, the event is e ectively a giant trade show. Expo says it’s the place to “rekindle business connections and open new markets and revenue streams”.

To make networking as easy as possible, Expo has developed a Business Matchmaking app (visit expo2020.swapcard.com), available on web, iOS and Android. Priced at just US$3, the app provides unlimited access to Expo 2020 business visitors and facilitates unlimited meeting and connection requests. It also provides you with personalised contact recommendations, based on your criteria. You can also meet connections online via video calls.

With Expo aiming to bring the world together to chart a course forward, improving the quality of life for generations to come, it is running e Programme for People and Planet, designed to address the most pressing challenges we face today.

Supported by Expo’s o cial partners and its international participants, the programme of events explores cultural, social, environmental, economic and business challenges, as well as issues of strategic importance to the UAE’s future under its Vision 2071 roadmap.

It encompasses thought-leadership sessions, business forums, cultural conversations, storytelling, womenin-business discussions, examples of best practice, ministerial gatherings, and more. Most events are aligned to 10 themed weeks:

Oct 3-9

Climate and Biodiversity Week

Combining advanced engineering and technologies to gain a deeper understanding of the natural environment.

Oct 17-23

Space Week

Exploring new frontiers for earth and space as space exploration becomes more accessible.

From networking opportunities to thought-provoking discussions, Expo 2020 Dubai is a gateway to source new connections and ideas

EXPO MEANS BUSINESS

Oct 31-Nov 6

Urban and Rural Development Week

Ensuring cities become more inclusive for their citizens and more in tune with their environment.

Nov 14-20

Tolerance and Inclusivity Week

Creating more tolerant and inclusive societies around the world.

Nov 3-Dec 4

Golden Jubilee Month

Celebrating the UAE’s ‘Year of 50’ and discussing prospects for the next 50 years.

Dec 12-18

Knowledge and Learning Week

Harnessing our knowledge today to prepare for the future.

Jan 9-15

Travel and Connectivity Week

Balancing physical and digital connectivity to bring us together and progress. Jan 16-22

Global Goals Week

Working together to achieve the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Jan 27-Feb 2

Health and Wellness Week

Promoting improved physical and mental health globally.

Feb 17-23

Food, Agriculture and Livelihoods Week

Strategies for ensuring the availability of healthy food for all as the global population swells.

Mar 20-26

Water Week

Future management of water sources and marine systems.

GLOBAL BEST PRACTICE PROGRAMME

The Global Best Practice Programme highlights projects from around the world that have provided impactful and sustainable interventions, with a view to expanding them elsewhere. This programme focuses on five areas aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with an Expo jury selecting 25 projects from 1,175 submissions, as well as 20 handpicked ‘Untold Stories’ from around the world, which spotlight community initiatives and stories of impactful solutions for people and the planet. You can find examples showcased in the Global Best Practice Area in the Opportunity District, with projects ranging from clean water and renewable energy solutions to environmental initiatives, illustrating how small steps can results in big leaps forward.

Since the first Great Exhibition held in London in 1851, World Expos have been a special place for bringing together inquisitive minds interested in questions about the future and, in so doing, learning more about each other. Expo 2020 Dubai is continuing this practice by merging it with the long-established Emirati and Arab tradition of the majlis. The World Majlis is a forum where diverse points of views are shared on important topics of our time. Each conversation brings together globally recognised thought leaders who are invited for their exceptional contributions to the theme and their unique perspective on the topic. In each Majlis, students and members of the public are welcome to contribute and engage. You can also take part in a series of conversations that focus on vital women’s issues presented in collaboration with the Women’s Pavilion. The Women’s World Majlis focuses on women’s perspectives at the heart of each of the Expo thematic weeks.

MAJLIS

EXPO ESSENTIALS

Visit the Expo website (expo2020dubai.com) and/or download the app for the latest information on Expo 2020 Dubai.

OPENING HOURS

■ Saturday to Wednesday, 10am to 12 midnight ■ ursday to Friday, 10am to 2am

TICKETS

Tickets are available online, on the Expo app and at Expo 2020 Ticket counters. ■ One-day ticket: AED95 ■ Multi-day ticket: AED195 ■ Season Pass: AED495 Children aged under 18, seniors (60+) and People of Determination are admitted free of charge.

COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS

Emirates, the Premier Partner and O cial Airline of Expo 2020 Dubai, is o ering customers visiting Dubai, and travelling through Dubai, during the event, a free Emirates Expo Day Pass for every ight ticket booked with the carrier. e o er is valid on all return tickets that include a ight to or through Dubai, for travel dates between October 1, 2021, and March 31, 2022. ydubai is also o ering passengers a complimentary one-day ticket when they travel on a ydubai inbound booking itinerary, a one-way ticket to Dubai or any connecting ydubai ight via Dubai, during the course of the event.

Several hotels and hospitality groups, including Address Hotels + Resorts, are also o ering complimentary tickets as part of a package. See pages 34 to 41.

ABOVE: Emirates is o ering customers a free Expo Day Pass

TRANSPORT

GETTING THERE

Getting to Expo 2020 could not be easier, whether you are travelling by car or taking public transport.

Dubai Metro

e new Route 2020 branch of the Dubai Metro Red Line links Jebel Ali Metro Station to the event. Trains run regularly from Dubai to Expo every day of the week, with wait times not exceeding three minutes on average during peak travel periods. Visit the Journey Planner on rta.ae for an upto-date timetable.

Expo Rider buses

is dedicated public bus service is free for visitors and operates from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah.

Hotel shuttle bus

Many hotels are operating complimentary shuttle bus services to Expo. Ask your concierge for transport options.

By taxi and e-hail

Dubai taxis and e-hail services such as Uber and Careem are readily available. Download the RTA, Uber or Careem app to book. All taxi and e-hail pick-ups from Expo incur a AED20 charge.

By car

Expo is accessible from all major highways in the UAE. On arrival, follow the signs for parking, which is free of charge and available from 8.30am to 1am, Saturday to Wednesday and to 3am on ursday and Friday. Valet parking is also available on a rst-come, rst-served based, priced AED95.

GETTING AROUND

Of course, the easiest way to explore Expo is on foot, and what better way to meet your steps target for the day. Other options include the interdistrict People Mover, suitable for families with strollers and wheelchair users. You can also jump on the Expo Explorer, an electric air train that takes you on sightseeing tour of the event. Another option is an Expo golf buggy, which is ideal for families. is is a paid-for service.

ABOVE: Try horopito marinated salmon at the New Zealand Pavilion BELOW: Dubai Metro

WHERE TO EAT

Food is central to Expo’s multicultural experience, giving visitors a taste of cuisine from around the world. With more than 200 food outlets on site, you can try everything from authentic street food to a three-course meal prepared by top international chefs.

Expo has designed several bespoke food concepts including Alkebulan, the African Dining Hall; Tastes of the Gulf; and the two-storey Talabat Kitchen food hall, which uses the latest technology, including robots, to order and deliver your meal. e event’s three major themed pavilions o er dining options too. For instance, in Terra – e Sustainability Pavilion, you can explore a menu designed around the planetary health diet, which is one way to manage the world’s food resources.

For something completely di erent, e Future of Food: Epochal Banquet, is a two-hour foodie experience like no other. Inspired by space travel, microbiology and AI, this three-course multi-sensory meal introduces you to restaurants of the future.

Many of the international participants are serving local delicacies at their pavilions to give you a real avour of their culture. ey include New Zealand, which is serving contemporary cuisine made from sustainably sourced products ranging from hoki sh, grass-fed beef and free-range chicken to an exceptional selection of cheeses and honey at its permanent pavilion restaurant Tiaki.

Choose from horopito marinated salmon, greenshell mussels and a Kāpiti Akatea traditional baked brie to start; dishes such as seared Canterbury lamb cutlets, crumbed sustainably caught hoki llet, slowcooked pasture-raised venison, and a succulent Kiwiburger made with beef or a mushroom vegetarian option for mains; and round o your meal with mouth-watering dessert options including honey cake and an Anzac biscuit ice-cream sandwich – both made with Comvita Mānuka honey – as well as New Zealand’s signature Pavlova and a fresh fruit carpaccio made with Zespri Kiwifruit.

Tiaki is one of only a few fully licensed pavilion restaurants open to the public throughout Expo 2020.