CHAIRMAN: DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: DR. KHALID MUBARAK AL-SHAFI

Views /Editorial

Another mega event around the corner

Published: 17 Sep 2023 - 09:11 am | Last Updated: 10 Mar 2025 - 04:56 am

As all preparations have been finalised to host another mega event in Qatar, the International Horticultural Exhibition Expo 2023 Doha is set to receive a large of visitors from around the globe.

First of its kind in the Gulf, 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.

Being held in collaboration between the Bureau International Des Expositions (BIE) and the International Association for Horticultural Producers (AIPH), Expo Doha 2023 will attract visitors locally and internationally, pavilions from over 80 countries, NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), and representatives.

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.

“A large number of countries especially those which are facing challenges of desertification, lack of water and soil for agricultural purposes are participating in the expo,” said Secretary General of Expo 2023 Doha Mohammed Al Khouri. “We want to make the expo not just an event for carrying activities, but we will host a number of researches and studies to serve the region.”

Recently, Minister of Municipality H E Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie met Secretary-General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) H E Dimitri Kerkentzes. They discussed aspects of joint cooperation between the two parties, especially with regard to latest developments in the logistical and technical preparations necessary for Qatar’s hosting of the Expo 2023 Doha from October 2, 2023 to March 28, 2024.

Held under the theme “Green Desert, Better Environment,” the expo aims to encourage sustainable innovations and reduce desertification to preserve the environment, in accordance with the principles of the Qatar National Vision 2030, which places environmental management and sustainable development at the top of its priorities.