‘I don’t want this to end’: Dubai bids farewell to Expo 2020 after 182 days of festivities

‘I don’t want this to end’: Dubai bids farewell to Expo 2020 after 182 days of festivities

Curtains fell on the world fair with a stunning closing ceremony that featured fireworks and performances by global music icons

Published: Thu 31 Mar 2022, 11:34 PM Last updated: Thu 31 Mar 2022, 11:50 PM

A night of sheer magic marked the end of Expo 2020 on Thursday evening.

With a spellbinding closing ceremony smattered with fireworks and world-class entertainment taking over the stage under the stunning Al Wasl Dome, the curtains came down on the ‘world’s greatest show’ in befitting style.

“Today is not the end of Expo 2020 Dubai, but a new beginning,” His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai declared in an audio message that boomed through the beating heart of the mega fair.

Recalling the Expo 2020 journey in his speech, he said: “We portrayed to the world a different version of ingenuity that touched the hearts and minds of every member of society.

“Our sons and daughters have proven their ability to overcome unprecedented difficulties and challenges. And in every moment of this journey, we reflected the values of the UAE — values of affection and hospitality.”

The hour-long grand spectacle was attended by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid