Hundreds of scheduled global and regional public events have been put on hold or canceled as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to spread in Arab countries and across the world.
With no near end in sight to the ongoing outbreak, many raised concerns over major events set to be held in the coming months, including Dubai's Expo 2020. However, those involved in the grand event - which is set to launch on Oct. 20 - can rest assured for the time being.
After much speculation over where the event stands amid the coronavirus threat, organizers confirmed that preparations for it are on track regardless.
In an official statement, a spokesperson for the event wrote, "We are consulting very closely with local authorities and the International Bureau of Expositions in Paris as the situation evolves."
The spokesperson added that the wellbeing of everyone working and visiting the expo's site is a priority.
"The number of cases in the UAE is currently low but the UAE authorities remain vigilant by continuously monitoring the situation and taking robust precautionary, preventative measures necessary to contain the rapid spread of the virus," they added.
The expo has been in the works for years
Dubai has been getting ready to host the international exhibition since it became the first Arab city to win the right to do so in 2013.
The huge event is expected to attract millions of people from all around the globe and is set to have a hugely positive impact on the UAE's economy. Dubai's government previously stated that it "expects a boost to growth spurred by stimulus programs and projects related to the international exhibition fair."
Last year, Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum toured the premises of the exhibition and was left quite impressed. Following his visit, he promised to make the expo the best in its 168-year history.
Dubai will become the first Arab city to host the Expo — which is over a century old and a platform where several of the world's most important inventions were launched.
The history of World Expo is interesting to a point it single-handedly changed history as we know it.
"World Expos are famous for their groundbreaking architecture, from the Eiffel Tower in 1889 to the Space Needle in 1962," Chief Community Engagement Officer of Expo 2020 Dubai Manal AlBayat once told The National.
In 1885, the washing machine and lawnmower were first introduced in Paris at one of the World Expos (and these are only a few examples).
When it launches in October, the six-month long event is set to carry a theme titled "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future." It will also feature three sub-themes: "Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability." The event - which features football star Lionel Messi as its global ambassador - is expected to attract 25 million visitors to Dubai.