For six months, beginning Oct. 20, 2020, the United Arab Emirates will host Expo 2020, the first World Expo ever held on the African continent. Here’s what you need to know about Expo 2020 and why you should start making plans for your family to join the more than 25 million expected to attend.
What is Expo 2020?
Also known as World Fairs, World Expos are held every five years and last six months. The next one, Expo 2020, will run seven days a week through April 2021 and feature 192 country pavilions in one of three thematic districts: Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability. Expect to see cutting-edge technologies, experience new cultures and taste the world’s cuisine at more than 200 restaurants.
Families can visit the countries they’re interested in or explore one of the expo’s themes using online educational materials that direct you to particularly kid-friendly pavilions. Check the expo calendar (when available) for special programs like the make-your-own-robot workshop, fireworks shows, parades, dance performances and more.
How many days do I need to see it?
Considering there are 192 country pavilions and more than 60 shows per day, it would be impossible to see and experience everything at the nearly 1,100-acre Expo 2020 in one day — or even three days. You can purchase a one-day ticket for $120 AED (about $33 USD) or a three-day pass for $260 AED. Monthly and seasonable passes will also be available when tickets go on sale in April 2020. Students get 50 percent off ticket prices, and children 5 and under are free.
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital. Photo: Teresa Bitler
Factor in time to discover the U.A.E. though, too. Expo 2020 is located in Dubai South, approximately halfway between downtown Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Both cities make an excellent base for the expo and offer family-friendly fun. In Dubai, visit Legoland Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Aquaventure Waterpark and the Dubai Mall. In Abu Dhabi, older kids will enjoy the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital and Grand Mosque, while family members of all ages will have a great time at Ferrari World.
Where should I stay?
Light rail will connect both cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, to Expo 2020, making it easy to stay in either location. Because the expo is about halfway between the two, it will take roughly the same amount of time to get there no matter which you choose. However, since Dubai is often mentioned in conjunction with Expo 2020, attendees will be more likely to stay in Dubai.
As a result, you may have an easier time finding rooms in Abu Dhabi. Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi is located on one of the U.A.E.’s best beaches and has a kids’ club and plenty of activities for all ages. For a budget-friendly option in Dubai, consider Aloft Palm Jumeirah
.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
May 18, 2026Experience the Magic of Mermaids in Orlando This Summer
Orlando is known for its iconic theme parks, but that isn’t the only place to find magic this spring and summer. Orlando World Center Marriott offers an experience that will bring magic to life for the little ones with Mermaid & Glow parties at the pool.
Sponsored Content
Best of Both Worlds
Enjoy the best of both worlds when you fly with TAP Air Portugal thanks to the Portugal Stopover program. With the program, TAP passengers, whether traveling for business, leisure or both, can stop in Portugal for up to 10 days at no additional airfare on the way to their final destination. What does this mean for travelers wishing to explore by both land and sea? It means after flying to Portugal with TAP and experiencing the country in an entirely new way, travelers can then embark on scenic river and ocean cruises from Portugal’s port cities, or fly with TAP to another European destination.
Hotels
May 18, 2026Marriott Opens Boise’s Largest Hotel, First Dual-Branded Property
Family travelers have new options in Idaho. Last week Pennbridge Hospitality opened AC Hotel Boise Downtown and Element by Marriott Boise Downtown, the largest and first dual-branded property in Boise, Idaho.
Hotels
May 18, 2026Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island Launches Family Adventure Package
This summer, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island partners with Outside Hilton Head, the Lowcountry’s premier outdoor adventure company, to enhance family travelers’ experiences through seamless access to the island’s top eco-adventures.
North America
May 15, 2026Smithsonian Associates Announces 2026 Dates for Smithsonian Sleepovers
Smithsonian Associates presents Smithsonian Sleepovers, overnight experiences for children ages 8 to 14 and adult chaperones at Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History and National Museum of American History, in summer 2026. After doors are closed, families can explore two of the world’s most visited museums through guided activities, games and hands-on learning. Sleepovers begin at 7 p.m. and end at 9 a.m. the following morning.
Adult Children
May 14, 2026Become a Kid Again at These 4 Fun Hotels
Family travel doesn’t have to be just about kids; these four hotels around the world allow adults to become kids again through unplugged action adventures; elevated, nostalgia-driven retreats; and 5-star resorts with reimagined summer camp experiences.
ShareThis