Expo Dubai showcases Slovenia as green oasis

After being delayed last year due to the pandemic, Expo Dubai is now launching under three main themes: sustainability, mobility and opportunity.

Slovenia's presentation is rooted in the country's sustainable, forward-looking, modern and creative efforts, putting its green environment, know-how, innovation and economic value added front and centre.

On 8 February 2022, when Slovenia celebrates Culture Day, a Slovenian Day will be held at Expo Dubai, putting the country in the spotlight.

The aim of Slovenia's participation is to increase its global market presence, boost its exports, including to the United Arab Emirates, and promote the country as a green tourist destination. In total, more than 45 events will be held by Slovenia at the world fair.

Slovenia's pavilion is located near one of the three entry points of the Expo show, in the part of the venue dedicated to sustainability.

It is built of wood, has a green facade and is surrounded by water, paying a tribute to Slovenia's three main natural resources - wood, green environment and water, and promoting the country's economy, energy, sports, culture, science and innovation.

Visitors will be transported to Slovenia with the help of digital technology in what will be an immersive experience.

"Our pavilion raises eyebrows at every turn," said Matic Volk, Slovenian Expo Commissioner, adding the structure attracted visitors and was a popular photo spot. "Now, our task is to fill this beautiful shell with quality content," he highlighted.

Director of the Slovenian pavilion Jurček Žmauc was also very satisfied with Slovenia's showing at the launch of Expo 2020.

"We are happy to represent our country, our location is phenomenal, our pavilion is phenomenal and we have a good team. So far, we are more than satisfied," he said.

These statements were also confirmed by visitors from all over the world, who were primarily attracted by the green facade and the beauty of Slovenian nature.

A delegation of several companies' representatives headed by Economy Minister Zdravko Počivalšek will arrive in Dubai on Saturday. The minister's visit will be marked by a small opening ceremony at the pavilion.

The Expo will bring together exhibitors from a record 192 countries, including organisations, companies and educational institutions, according to the organisers.

For the first time in the history of world fairs, Expo will be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region. In what is another first, each participating country will boast its own pavilion.

Some 25 million visitors are expected to visit the world show, which will run until 31 March 2022. Those visiting from Slovenia will find it easier to get to Dubai as budget carrier Flydubai recently launched scheduled flights between Ljubljana and Dubai.