Construction of Expo 2020 Dubais petal-shaped Thematic Districts is now completed, welcoming the world to UAE for 173 days of creativity and innovation.

More than 100 million working hours have contributed into developing the site. Dubai Municipality has provided the final building completion certificate with all the construction in progress for Expo to be completed in the year before gates open.

The districts are built by the UAEs Al Futtaim Construction. Water and shading features are already being installed. The districts are now ready for fitout. It comprises of huge built-up area of the site and includes about 86 low-rise buildings with dedicated leisure areas, food and beverage outlets, retail, performance spaces.

Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: The completion of the Thematic Districts is a significant milestone in our journey towards delivering an exceptional Expo, including worldclass design, as part of the UAE leaderships vision to always achieve the highest standards and to show the world the spirit and creativity of our nation. Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: This is the year of delivery, and the completion of the three Thematic Districts is a major construction landmark to be celebrated as we prepare to welcome the world in less than 520 days. Its exciting to see the site evolve every day, and despite the pace of progress, we remain committed to quality and worker welfare.

The Thematic Districts, designed by Hopkins and Partners, recalls old Dubai with appearance resembling traditional Emirati wind towers and pathways. They include variety of innovative features including solar cells, smart shading and huge basement under each district which will be used during the event and parking post event. The next major Expo 2020 construction project is the Al Wasl Plazas massive domed trellis due for completion in June. It will act as a large 360-degree projection screen.

The three DEWA substations will power the 4.38 sqkm site and other water, sewage and telecommunication including 2.2 km road network have already been completed.

Expo 2020 aims to attract 25 million visitors between the period, 20 October 2020 and 10 April 2021 with almost 75% of visitors coming from outside UAE. More than 200 participants will come together to explore the Expo 2020s theme of Connecting Minds, Creating the Future.