Expo 2020 Dubai’s moniker – the world’s greatest fair – isn’t just for show. The gigantic 438-hectare space, home to more than 192 pavilions, is teeming with activities for every age. For the athletic football fans, for example, there are Man City coaches waiting to improve their game. And for those with cricket on their minds, Indian players from the Rajasthan Royals are in attendance. Whether you are looking for edutainment or something cool for your Instagram feed, Expo 2020 has got you covered. The list is long, the time is short – so here’s a round-up of things to do this weekend at the show.
Meet the Rajasthan Royals
If you want to learn about the cricket team Rajasthan Royals or get an autograph from your favourite player, head over to the Sport, Fitness and Wellbeing Hub and Garden on 1: Sports Lounge on October 8. Captain Sanju Samson, South African international Chris Morris, opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal and all-star Riyan Parag will all be present. Where: Various locations| When: 45-minute masterclass from AT Rajamani, the Rajasthan Royals’ strength and conditioning coach: 4pm; Meet John Gloster, the team’s head physio therapist, who will teach his 45-minute ‘Injury Prevention and Optimising Recovery’ masterclass at 5pm at Garden on 1: Sports Lounge. Zubin Bharucha, Strategy, Player Development and Performance Director, with host his 45-minute ‘Battling Masterclass & Mastering Spin’ session at Sports, Fitness and Wellbeing Hub at 5pm. ‘Royals Meet and Greet for Fans’ takes place at 6pm at Sports, Fitness and Wellness Hub. Kumar Sangakkara, now Director of Cricket, Rajasthan Royals, will host ‘Leadership and Management Lessons Through Leading a Sports Franchise’ masterclass at Garden on 1: Sports Lounge for 45 minutes from 7pm.
Al Qatt Al Asiri
Want to learn an ancient art? Walk over to the Saudi Arabia Pavilion to learn all about the craft of pattern-painting. The educational, interactive and demonstrative workshop will showcase exactly why this colourful practice got into the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Where: Saudi Pavilion| When: 10am-1pm and 5.30-9.30pm
Notre-Dame de Paris, the Experience
You no longer need to go to France to see this a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Instead, when you go to the France Pavilion, you can see it in all its glory thanks to a virtual immersion experience that uses augmented reality technology. Where: France Pavilion | When: 10am-10pm
Theatre and street arts
There’s magic in movement, especially when trained professionals are involved. Portugal theatre and street arts groups – which are on a two-week rotation - are bringing their stellar routines to the UAE. Where: Portugal Pavilion | When: 12-12.30pm/3-3.30pm
Man City Turn Up and Play
Are you a football fan? Then it’s time to step onto the field and get some expert coaching by Man City coaches. Whether you are an attacker or a defender or a striker, this is where you learn how to really score a good game. Where: Manchester City Aussie Park | When: 12-6pm
Interactive Culture Lab sessions
Achtung! Calling all kids – there are interactive sessions, dance lessons and quizzes afoot at the Germany Pavilion. Or, if you prefer, you can duel your buddy on the Nintendo Switch. It’s time to play. Where: Campus Germany |When: 12.30-7pm
Daily Parade
Each day, the "Colours of the World" parade showcases a fusion of performers from across the board – it’s a vibrant mix of musicians and artists that’ll have you cheering, clapping and taking a whole lot of pictures. Where: Ghaf Avenue| When: 12.45-1pm
Family Show
This show, commissioned by Saudi Arabia, melds music, puppetry and digital elements to create a culturally rich and entertaining experience. Where: Earth Stage | When: 5pm-5.30pm/6.30pm-7pm/7.
The Guardian
Stop to take a picture of the large-scale puppet who symbolises a shared investment in the sustainable conversation of nature and our planet. The Guardian performs as a voice for all animals as he gracefully moves through the site. Where: Ghaf Avenue | When: 5pm-10.45pm
Expo Beats
Dance to the rhythm of the night at Expo Beats – the music festival that brings together artists from across the planet. This weekend, the theme of the show is World Beats. Where: Jubilee Stage | When: 4pm onwards.
South Africa Movie Week
See award-winning productions from South Africa when you visit this pavilion. Where: South Africa Pavilion |When: 6pm-8pm.
Mr Scrap Returns
See Expo mascots Rashid and Latifa battle it out with arch-nemesis Mr. Scrap with the fate of the planet hanging in the balance. Where: Al Wasl Stage | When: 6.37-6.57pm
Saudi Folklore Performance
Teach your children about Saudi Arabia by introducing them to its folklore. The Saudi Signature Performance Group will be putting on a vibrant dance representing various regions and Saudi folklores. They’ll be accompanied by traditional music, songs and chants. Where: Saudi Arabia Pavilion | When: 7pm-7.10pm/7.40pm-7.50pm/9-9.10pm
Nuit Food Music
Experience a cooking show with a tasty difference on October 8; there’s a musical performance and food tasting to go sample. Where: Morocco Pavilion | When: 7pm-9pm
Pakistan - The Land of Melodies
Singers from six different regions of Pakistan are coming together for a musical performace you won’t want to miss. Traditional instruments layer the singers’ showcase. Where: Earth Stage | Where: 8.30-9pm
‘Ousha & The Moon’
When she was 12 years old, Ousha had a dream about the moon – it would be a transformative moment for the young girl who would become a legend. Paying homage to the Emirati poet Ousha bint Khalifa Al Suwaidi, this is an immersive experience that will draw you into a fantastic dreamsape. Who knows? You may find your muse here too. | When: 6.50pm
‘Harmony’
Soon after, the heart of the Expo will pound with a glowing ocean fantasy brought to life, with spectacular live performances and immersive projections. Where: Al Wasl Plaza | When: 8.30pm
