Expo 2023 Doha will be the second-largest global event to be held in Qatar after the FIFA World Cup 2022. First of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region, the Expo will explore solutions that enable the sustainable cultivation of trees and crops, especially in desert and arid lands.
The exhibition aims to attract 3 million visitors and will run for six months from October 2023 to March 2024.
The theme for the expo is “Green Desert, Better Environment”. The Expo will be particularly important for Qatar, GCC, MENA and other arid regions. It will showcase solutions and research to fight desertification and for greening of the arid lands. Techniques that enable the sustainable cultivation of trees and crops in arid lands play an important role in reversing desertification.
The Expo is likely to boost the agriculture sector in the region. It aims to inspire the international community to explore and adopt innovative desertification mitigation solutions. Alternative techniques have reduced the irrigation requirement for crops and trees by 70% in Qatar. With the addition of soil conditioners, the country has saved water significantly, besides benefiting from research on the Gulf plants that sometimes survive the whole year from one-time watering.
Spanning over 1.7 million square metres, the event will take place in the scenic Al Bidda Park. Situated in the heart of Doha, the prime location boasts convenient proximity to Hamad International Airport, Doha Port and the Business Centre.
The mega event will attract international visitors and organisers from 80 countries. There will be also participation of international universities and the varsities that have branches in Qatar.
The exhibition has officially opened the doors for individuals to join its volunteer programme, offering a unique opportunity to be a vital part of this six-month horticultural event. It aims to recruit 2,200 volunteers.
Applicants keen on becoming Expo 2023 Doha volunteers must be at least 18 years old by September 1 and be able to dedicate seven to eight days per month for six months. The applicants must be currently residing in Qatar. The Expo organisers have made provisions for individuals outside the country to apply as long as they are self-funded and willing to relocate to Qatar for the duration of the event.
While volunteer roles at the event are unpaid, the experience promises to be highly rewarding. They will become an integral part of major international events, forging valuable connections and memories.
