#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #PIF #Expo 2030

The New Era of Dubai: Expo 2030 Riyadh Company

On June 19, 2025, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia announced the establishment of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Company (ERC). Fully owned by PIF, the ERC is tasked with the construction and operation of the facilities for the upcoming Expo 2030 Riyadh, marking Saudi Arabia's debut on the global expo stage. The expo aims not only to promote tourism but also to set benchmarks for sustainable practices in the region.

A Monumental Vision

The master plan for the expo is set to cover an impressive 6 million square meters, making it one of the largest venues for a world expo. Strategically located in the northern district of Riyadh, it's close to the future King Salman International Airport, ensuring easy access for both visitors and participants. The site will integrate seamlessly with Riyadh's urban landscape, underlining the city's commitment to growth and modernization.

Expected to attract more than 40 million visitors, the Expo 2030 Riyadh aims to transform the venue into a global village post-event. This village will serve as a multicultural hub featuring retail, dining, and entertainment options, accompanied by a residential neighborhood equipped with premium amenities. The initiative highlights Saudi Arabia's ambitions to set new standards in tourism and hospitality, focusing heavily on sustainability.

Economic Impact

Importantly, the expo is projected to contribute nearly $70 billion to Saudi Arabia's GDP. During its construction phases, it is expected to create approximately 171,000 direct and indirect jobs. Upon completion, the expo is anticipated to add about $5.6 billion to the GDP, emphasizing its role as a significant economic driver in the region. PIF's strategic goals aim not just for economic benefit but also for long-term growth opportunities, thus reinforcing Saudi Arabia's global economic status.

PIF's involvement underscores its commitment to diversifying the Saudi economy. As one of the world's most influential investors, PIF is instrumental in promoting key sectors that position Saudi Arabia as a vital player in the global economy. The ERC will leverage PIF's extensive local and global networks to ensure that the expo's development is not just an isolated incident but part of a larger strategy aimed at sustainable urban innovation.

Future Developments

Moving forward, ERC will work collaboratively with both local and international partners to achieve its goals in construction, cultural programming, and event management. This collaboration aims for a detailed approach that resonates with the local populace while also appealing to the global community attending the expo.

Scheduled to take place from October 1, 2030, to March 31, 2031, the Expo 2030 Riyadh promises to showcase the potential of Riyadh as one of the fastest-growing capitals in the world. The event was awarded to Riyadh in November 2024, where it triumphed in the first-round voting.

With the ongoing shift towards a more sustainable future, the Expo 2030 Riyadh is strategically positioned to elevate the city's appeal to international businesses and tourists alike. It stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals, focusing on sustainability, connectivity, and improved quality of life.

Legacy and Global Participation

Countries participating in the expo will have the opportunity to build permanent pavilions, thus becoming part of the legacy that will follow the event. The expo will also promote long-term business and investment growth, enabling participating nations to enhance their visibility on the international stage.

As the ERC swiftly starts its operations to realize these ambitious objectives, the world watches with keen interest how Riyadh will reinvent itself in the global arena—ushering in a new chapter of sustainable tourism and economic dynamism in the process.