EXPO2020 Dubai
With its focus on providing people with basic needs, such as food, clean water and energy, the water-energy-food nexus touches on some of the most important UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During Expo 2020 Dubai the Netherlands will showcase technologies and innovations within these themes. We will prove how working together can contribute to achieving the SDGs. In our relatively small but advanced country, government organisations, companies and knowledge institutions work together closely. This ‘triple helix’ model enables researchers and entrepreneurs to join forces within and outside their own sectors.
Expected to attract 25 million visitors from 192 nations between October 2021 and April 2022, the World Expo in the United Arab Emirates is set to make history. These numbers alone make EXPO2020 the ideal stage for ambitious Dutch water businesses and organisations. This global event is an extraordinary springboard for business and trade in the region well beyond 2022. Now is the time to get in and showcase the kind of innovative and sustainable solutions that the Dutch water sector is known for, with a particular focus on the areas of water, energy and food.
NWP point of contact EXPO2020NWP is appointed as formal point of contact for the Dutch water sector participation in the EXPO2020 and the aligning of the Water programme during the event. The Netherlands contributes to the World Exhibition Expo 2020 Dubai focusing on the theme "Uniting Water, Energy and Food". Water (SDG 6) is crucial in this triangle. Water is needed to produce Energy and Food and plays an important role in climate change and the cities of tomorrow. Therefore, the Netherlands focuses mainly on the sub themes; Climate Adaptation, Water Smart Cities, Water Quality and Circular Economy.
Opportunities in the Gulf region
The Gulf region is among the most water-stressed areas in the world. At the same time, it is also one of the highest water-consuming areas. The agricultural sector is by far the largest consumer of water in the Gulf region, accounting for around 85% of fresh water, nearly all of which comes from non-renewable underground sources. As with other countries in the region, water scarcity limits the UAE’s domestic food production. Consequently, the UAE must import most of its food products. Nonetheless, the ambition to pursue further domestic production remains.
In light of the UAE’s ambition to ensure its food security and its need for potable water, this creates many opportunities for cooperation in the water, energy and food sectors.
For more information about the Dutch water sector involvement during EXPO2020 Dubai, please contact Roy Agterbos, Project Manager EXPO Dubai
For more information about business opportunities in the Gulf region, please contact Sabrina Kraaijenbrink-Doetjes, Project Manager MENA region.
