The Land of Dreamers Who Do
Shaped like a falcon soaring into the sky, the UAE Expo pavilion is nothing short of extraordinary. Designed by Santiago Calatrava and inspired by the host country’s national emblem the falcon - the 15,064 sqm space is astounding in beauty and engineering. With a solar panel roof sheltered by carbon and glass-fiber movable wings controlled by a sophisticated hydraulic system, the pavilion titled “ The Land of Dreamers Who Do” embodies sustainability and progress.
Upon entering the pavilion, visitors are welcomed by a modern oasis recalling the Falaj - a traditional irrigation system that used to channel water from wadis to wells. The Falaj is a beautiful example of how the pavilion honours the UAE’s past and future, its traditions and recent innovations.
A dreamy oasis showcases the UAE’s natural flora.
“The beating heart of Expo 2020, Al Wasl Plaza embodies the theme of Connecting Minds. Creating the Future and celebrates the magic that happens when people, cultures and ideas come together.”
Visitors are then lead to the Desert of Dreams, a sensory experience through sand hills on which are projected stories on the UAE’s history - its nomadic past up until today.
By the end, the sand dunes turn to glass illustrating the UAE’s incredible and rapid urbanisation over the years.
After wandering through hills of sand, it is inside a giant Pearl auditorium that visitors are able to delve deep into the history of the nation and its people and experience an immersive audiovisual show whilst being physically elevated during the screening thanks to a lifting platform.
At the apex of the building an oculus skylight reflects the Expo’s logo. Placed underneath it - the Pearl, a unique theatre with a seating capacity of up to 200.
Powering the building and open during the day to absorb sunlight, visitors can admire the pavilion’s incredible photovoltaic panelled roof.
With inclusivity and sustainability at heart the breathtaking pavilion demonstrates the UAE’s incredible dynamic and forward-thinking spirit making it an unmissable highlight of this year’s Expo.
