Dubai Expo: Dawood says there has been overwhelming response to Pak Pavilion

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Pavilion received 50,000 visitors in the opening week of Dubai Expo 2020, making it one of the busiest pavilions of the mega event.

According to Commerce Ministry, the pavilion’s first look is a magnificent facade, established by Pakistan’s renowned visual artist Rashid Rana. The beautiful piece of art is named “Unity of All That Appears”, and it truly manifests the title as it unifies the seasons, colors, and people of Pakistan in one form.

Pakistan Pavilion Principal curator of inner journey Noor Jehan Bilgrami gives an insight into one of the many spectacular pieces that have been carefully selected to convey the story of Pakistan. Segregated in history and culture, the Pakistani pavilion is divided into eight key spaces where visitors can experience the country’s best-kept treasures, from its ancient civilization and stunning landscapes.

The visitors enjoyed the bright façade, vibrant Bazaar, history, culture, Billion Trees, and Dhaba - the crowd-puller. Many visitors had not seen this part of Pakistan before, and were excited about the authentic experience.

One of the visitors from Mexico said, “I loved the experience. It felt very immersive. Rooted in history and culture, it exhibits everything that Pakistan has to offer in terms of tourism and industry. It was fascinating and made me want to visit Pakistan.”

A Russian visitor said, “This pavilion is amazing. You have such a deep culture, beautiful nature. I am astonished, I see here much more than I expected. You have a beautiful country. I cannot wait to visit”.

The Pakistan Pavilion had a visitor from Oman who said, “Very nice pavilion. I have never visited Pakistan and, for the first time witnessing such great architecture and history. I never thought Pakistan had such an ancient civilization. I have never seen anything like this. I have already planned a trip to Pakistan.”

Advisor to PM on Commerce & Investment, Abdul Razak Dawood claimed that “the reactions we received were overwhelming and the number of visitors we had in the first week was beyond expectations. Pakistan is a country with great opportunities for tourism and investment. Also, I would like to thank our artists for their creativity and skills are the sole reason we showcased the actual Pakistan to a broader audience.

The Dubai Expo-2020, which commenced on October 1, 2021, will continue till March 31, 2022. Over six months, 192 countries, 25 million visitors will participate. Expo-2020 will allow the Pakistani business community access to networking with the international market and investor.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2021