One of the reasons for its massive appeal this year is the interesting theme of the World Expo 2010: “Better City, Better Life”. Visitors to the World Expo pavilions learned about the history, the demographics, and mainly the social and structural development of the countries involved. The journey of development and betterment of cities to yield an improved quality of life varied from country to country ranging from exploring alternative energy sources and green solutions to education and human rights.
In addition, visitors got a firsthand account of witnessing the culture of these countries and taking home a souvenir gift or a typical food item pertaining to each country. Business-oriented visitors also had the opportunity to meet with individuals who facilitate business affairs between the respective countries.
The UAE pavilion specifically stood out amongst its neighbors and boasted waiting times of 5-6 hours. Its interesting design shaped as two golden sand dunes whose panels reflect light in different directions, was enough to get the crowd interested. Live music and Ayala dancing entertained visitors waiting for long hours. However, the reason for its success mainly lied in the content that was presented to visitors. Although other pavilions also entertained visitors, not many managed to educate them about the country effectively as did UAE.
What did they see inside the UAE Pavilion? Visitors walked through 3 different halls, each of which showed an educational video about the UAE and its people. The first video described the history of the UAE and touched upon aspects of nomadic culture, pearl trade, and fishing. In a narrative manner a wise older man sitting in the desert with pearls in his hand walks his curious grandson through time. The video continued by highlighting some aspects of the discovery of oil and its impact on the economy and glimpses of the old and new UAE and its ruling families.
The second attraction boasted high-tech screens along columns spread around a massive hall. Visitors gathered around these columns and watched many different Emirati professionals speak of their careers and their success. The Emiratis featured involved surgeons, entrepreneurs, artists, pilots, rappers, car racers, and many more. The role of Emirati women and their success was clearly emphasized.
Finally, the third hall showed a journey of two young children, one Emirati and one Chinese. This impressive show involved the use of 3D technology, holograms, and multiple different screens. The journey showed visitors important UAE landmarks and sights as well as improved infrastructure. Throughout the journey, the openness for collaboration was stressed upon through the bond of friendship between the two children.
As though that was not enough, the UAE pavilion had arranged with Takatof volunteers to roam the pavilion and assist visitors who in turn got exposed to Emiratis in national dress. Takatof volunteers had Emirati men acting as ushers and Emirati women face painting UAE flags on young children. The smiles on these volunteers’ faces and the passion in their representation of the country demonstrated a very important human element to the learning process and further contributed to the UAE pavilion’s success.
The UAE pavilion at the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China managed to show visitors how the unity of the federation and the initiatives of its generous and wise leadership led to a “Better City, Better Life”. Needless to say, the UAE Pavilion at The World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China is a must-see destination this summer.
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Such a well written post.. Thnkx for sharing this post!
Thanks for taking the time to post such a detailed and informative article.
Such a well written post.. Thnkx for sharing this post!