As Expo 2023 Doha, the International Horticultural Exhibition, prepares to kick off on October 2, we’ve got the lowdown on what you can expect from the first event of its kind in the region.

Running over 179 days, until March 28 next year, and expected to attract around three million local, regional and international visitors, the theme of the Expo is ‘Green Desert, Better Environment’, its aims being to educate and inspire while showcasing cuttingedge methods and technology to lessen desertification.

Desertification is the process by which vegetation in drylands, that is arid and semi-arid lands, such as grasslands or shrublands, decreases and eventually disappears.

The event covers more than 1.7 million square metres at Al Bidda Park and more than 2,500 volunteers will be on hand over the sixmonth running period, to make sure everything goes smoothly.

As a collaboration between the Bureau International Des Expositions (BIE) and the International Association for Horticultural Producers (AIPH), Expo Doha 2023 will host pavilions from more than 80 countries, as well as NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations) and others. As well as amazing and informative displays and shows, it will provide an international forum for discussion on the global issue of desertification.

Many of the countries taking part face the challenge of desertification and the Expo is working with universities and private companies to develop a sustainable agriculture system for combating the problem. Some universities will launch their research at the Expo and a report based on the results will be prepared and shared.

What We Can Do – Areas of Exploration

The way we grow our food has a great impact on the planet’s desertification, that’s why finding better, more efficient and environmentally friendly methods of food production is so crucial.

Expo 2023 Doha aims to create a convergence of people and ideas to accelerate innovation, research and scientific advancements that will utilise technology alongside traditional farming methods to increase sustainability.

Technology and innovation are key drivers in the advancement of solutions for balancing and enhancing farming productivity and environmental sustainability. The tech section will specially focus on four topics: handson experience – getting the tech to the farmers; rainwater harvesting; alternative energy solutions; and urban greenery/ urban farming which helps control air pollution and reduces the transport carbon footprint of produce.

An Environmental Awareness section will highlight the fragility of the physical environment, looking at affiliation – joining together – as well as education.

There will be a section looking at access to healthy food; ways to encourage healthier eating; reduction of food waste and a ‘Start Your Own Garden’ programme. And also, an area looking at community gardening.

What’s Available?

Congress Center
The congress center is designed to host various types of events, conferences, seminars and meetings. It’s an ideal platform for networking, exchanging innovative ideas and forging new partnerships.

Exhibition Center
With its vast 7,500sq/m exhibition space, the Exhibition Center offers limitless opportunities for event organisers to host B2B (business to business) and also consumer events, offering ample room to display products and services to a diverse and engaged audience.

Family Amphitheatre
With a capacity to host up to 2,000 viewers, this openair amphitheatre is the perfect place for family fun and entertainment. A variety of edutainment shows and activities suitable for kids and families await, from interactive performances to educational programmes.

Indoor Domes
The indoor gardens will be housed within domes featuring controlled conditions and temperatures to preserve and nurture the spaces. They offer an ideal setting for cultivating plants and flowers that demand specific indoor environments, temperatures and lighting.

Farmers’ Market
The Famers’ Market is a dedicated space for farmers and growers to display and present their produce to the public. International pavilions will have the opportunity to showcase and sell their locally-sourced agricultural products.

Food Kiosks
The kiosks provide an opportunity for visitors to experience diverse food and options, presenting an array of international and local cuisines.

Environment Centre & Biodiversity Museum
This facility provides a dedicated space to exhibit environmental science, renewable energy demonstrations and technologies and to share climate change statistics and information.

Grandstand Arena
The venue can accommodate 5,000 people and will host worldrenowned international and regional artists. Details of events are still to be confirmed.

Though not taking a national pavilion the US Embassy will be participating at Expo 2023 by hosting several public events highlighting science education, sustainability and other shared values.

Entry to Expo 2023 Doha is free for all visitors and a Hayya Card option will be in place.

GO: VISIT DOHAEXPO2023.GOV.QA FOR MORE INFORMATION.