The former site of Expo 2020 Dubai will be transformed into a suburban city with eco-friendly lifestyle facilities and a business district. Photo Credit: EXPO 2020 Dubai
Named District 2020, the former site of Expo 2020 Dubai will be
transformed into the UAE’s first cycle-friendly, traffic-free suburban
city of Dubai. A Supreme Committee appointed by Sheikh Mohammed bin
Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai will oversee the development.
The suburban city will utilise more than 80 percent of the Expo site
and will feature an autonomous-vehicle route; a 10km cycling track; a
5km jogging track; and interconnected pedestrian walkways. The business
enclave will welcome 85 start-ups and small businesses at the end of the
year.
According to media comments by Ahmed Al Khatib, chief development and
delivery officer for Expo 2020, the development of District 2020 will
be completed in phases between now and October this year.
Officials have also confirmed that several Expo attractions will
remain as part of District 2020 and will serve new functions. They
include: Al Wasl Plaza as a concert venue; the Sustainability Pavilion
as a children’s and science centre; the Mobility Pavilion to host
temporary exhibitions; the UAE Pavilion to be a visitor attraction and
cultural meeting place; the Saudi Pavillion to showcase green energy
innovations; the Dubai Exhibition Centre to be utilised by companies in
selected industries.