Dubai to invest $8.1 billion in infrastructure for Expo 2020

Dubai is expected to invest over $8.1 billion in new infrastructure to host Expo 2020, sources said.
Total spending related to the expo, including private sector projects, could reach $18.3 billion, according to HSBC estimation. According to Deutsche Bank estimation, as much as $43 billion in infrastructure projects will need to be developed in preparation for the event.
“The required costs would not be problematic as it makes sense and has a business case. The World Expo in Dubai would present opportunities and leave a lasting legacy, not only for Dubai and the UAE, but for the economy and the wider region,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, chairman of Dubai Airports, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and chairman of Expo 2020 Preparatory Committee.
Aviation has established itself as a vital contributor to the UAE’s economy, contributing more than AE145 billion or 14.7 percent to the national gross domestic product (GDP).
A significant portion of the government investments planned for infrastructure development in the emirate will be for the aviation industry with airports sector being the top priority. The global aviation industry will benefit immensely with the opening of floodgates of new investments in the run up to the event which will attract 25 million tourists to the economically vibrant region.
“Expo 2020 is going to be best thing happening to the UAE’s aviation industry and the Airport Show, taking place from May 11 to 13, is a big opportunity to tap the business potential that lies ahead,” said Daniyal Qureshi, event director, The Airport Show
The Strategic Plan 2020 forecasts that Dubai International Airport would hit capacity in 2018 at around 90 million passengers.