“When you press the pause button on a machine, it stops. But when you press the pause button on human beings they start — start to reflect, rethink assumptions, and reimagine a better path.” – Dov Seidman.

Today’s world races forward with the velocity of a Formula 1 car.

So rapid is the pace of change, with emerging trends and evolving traditions continuously transforming our global environment, we often find ourselves hurtling through life at a breakneck speed of 220 miles per hour.

Let us, then, take Mr. Seidman’s advice, momentarily pull over into the pit lane, and reassess what ‘progress’ means.

Mention the ‘P’ word, and for many, the first benchmark that comes to mind is ‘Expo’.

High-octane crucibles of innovation like Expo 2020 Dubai and Expo 2025 Osaka represent paradigms that have the power to forever change our lives. Riyadh’s recent winning of the bid to host Expo 2030 promises a vision of progress that fully transcends mere technological advancement and taps into something more intrinsically human.

Under the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow,” Saudi Arabia will invite the global community to collectively imagine a brighter, sustainable future, initiating today’s actions for tomorrow’s prosperity.

The figures associated with Expo 2030 Riyadh are impressive:

– A staggering investment of $7.8 billion.

– An expected 40 million visitors on-site.

– A groundbreaking 1 billion Metaverse visits.

– Participation from 246 nations.

– A vast 6 million square meter Expo site.

Moreover, to accelerate change across every economic sector, the Expo will explore three compelling sub-themes:

– “A Different Tomorrow”: Concentrating on scientific and technological innovations, resilience, and responsible service to humanity.

– “Climate Action”: Fostering global cooperation to protect ecosystems and find sustainable solutions.

– “Prosperity for All”: Tackling global disparities with an inclusive approach, respecting each nation’s unique culture and aspirations.

Firstly, with the addition of 70,000 new hotel rooms and enhanced connectivity through the Riyadh Metro, Expo 2030 is poised to transform Saudi tourism. Its proximity to King Salman International Airport and King Khalid International Airport will position Riyadh as a global hub, and the introduction of a unified GCC tourist visa will further increase its attractiveness as a destination.

Secondly, as the most interconnected Expo to date, Expo 2030 Riyadh will be committed to embracing renewable energy and achieving carbon neutrality, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s goal of 50% renewable energy reliance by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2060. Crucially, the Kingdom’s evolving sustainability landscape will create significant opportunities for climate technology firms both regionally and globally.

Finally, the Expo site’s design, integrating an ancient wadi and reflecting Riyadh’s heritage as an oasis and place of convergence, symbolizes a confluence of diverse ideas and vision. This philosophy infuses the essence of Expo 2030, underscoring the Kingdom’s role as a global connector and inviting international leaders to collaborate and contribute to worldwide development.

And yet, while we may admire these facts, figures, and forecasts as we would the tangible features of an automobile – its chassis, suspension, brake discs and tires – it is the fuel in the tank that ultimately drives it forward.

That fuel is human ingenuity. The commitment to enlightening and empowering people’s lives that underlies, informs, and propels every facet of Riyadh Expo 2030.

It is the human factor in a rapidly advancing world that drives technology, gives meaning to innovation, and propels real progress. Expo 2030 Riyadh will be a gathering point where global leaders come together to forge lasting bonds, establish networks, and chart new paths. A shared space where connections are strengthened, ideas exchanged, and collaborations fostered for a foresighted tomorrow.

Sure. The speed of the car, power of the engine, and aerodynamics of the bodywork are important. But, at the end of the day, it’s all about the human behind the wheel.

Insignia Worldwide is proud to be the visitor experience partner for the Saudi Arabian Pavilion at the 2025 Expo in Osaka, Japan.