Expo 2020 Dubai: Your ultimate guide to the mega event

Dubai - The fair is gearing up to be the world's greatest show.

The wait is almost over. Very soon, Dubai will throw its doors open to host Expo 2020 from October 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022.

The emirate known for its penchant for mixing opulence and excellence is, no doubt, moving heaven and earth to turn the mega event into the world’s greatest show.

To make sure that you get the most out of this world fair, Khaleej Times has put together this Expo guidebook that will help you plan your visit, navigate the site, and savour its splendour.

From booking tickets, to getting to the sprawling site and enjoying its versatile experiences and world class events, here is the ultimate Expo 2020 Handbook – at your fingertips.

What's in store

Earlier this month, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, confirmed the readiness of the global fair and promised an “unprecedented” event.

Wondering what to expect? Take a look:

Get your tickets now

A single-entry ticket will cost Dh95, while a six-month pass will cost Dh495. Entry is free for visitors under 18 and people of determination. The accompanying person will also get 50 per cent discount. Meanwhile, a multi-entry pass is available for Dh195.

Passes are available online from the Expo 2020 Dubai online ticket office. Residents and visitors will also be able to buy their tickets from convenience stores at Dubai Metro stations or Enoc and Eppco service stations.

Make your grand entry

There are three entry gates to Expo located at each thematic district: Sustainability, Opportunity and Mobility. The intricate latticework resemble the mashrabiya architecture of the Islamic civilisation.

The entry portals that are 21 metres tall and 30 metres long are one of the attractions at the Expo. Check them out here:

How to reach the Expo site

>> Hop on the Metro:

If you are travelling by Metro, Route 2020 takes you directly to Expo 2020. The stunningly designed Expo 2020 Station will provide direct access to the site and is walking distance from Al Wasl Plaza, the heart of the venue.

>> The world is a bus ride away

There is a dedicated public service to get you to and from the Expo 2020 site. It is free of charge and you can catch it from different locations in Dubai and other Emirates.

>> If taking a bus from other Emirates

There are 77 buses that will transport visitors from neighbouring emirates to the Expo site. Here's how you can plan your trip:

>> How about a long drive?

If you’re driving to the Expo 2020 site, all you have to do is to follow the signs that lead to one of the four designated parking lots.

– Opportunity parking zone (from the E77 Expo Road)

– Sustainability parking zone (from the E77 Expo Road or D54 Zayed Bin Hamdan al Nahyan street)

– Mobility parking zone (from the E311 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road)

– Dubai Exhibition Centre parking zone (from the E311 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road)

Parking at Expo

Parking is free of charge. There are 26,000 parking spots and they are open from 8.30am to 1.30am on weekdays, and up to to 2.30am on weekends/special days. Valet parking is also available on a first-come, first-served basis for Dh95.

Stay in the thick of all the action