The Gulf Cooperation Council, GCC, will showcase the power of nations working together when it hosts its own pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, the first World Expo to be held in the region.

Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Secretary-General of the Council, today signed an official participation contract with Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director-General of Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau.

The GCC will have its own pavilion at the exhibition, as well as the individual national pavilions of the member states. It is the first time the council will be represented at a world exposition, and it is the first multi-national organisation to sign up for Expo 2020.

The pavilion will be a chance to demonstrate the unique collaboration of the GCC countries, and the incredible achievements that have been made through working together, echoing the Expo 2020 Dubai theme of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’.

"We welcome the decision of the GCC to participate in the expo and believe this will underline the strong partnership of the council’s countries," Reem Al Hashimy said, adding, the exhibition will bring many millions of people together over its six-month duration, and this pavilion will be a chance to show them the power of ‘Connecting Minds’.

Dr. Al Zayani said, "From the very foundation of the Council more than 35 years ago, we have worked to build on the deep relations, bonds and cooperation of our citizens.

"Our nations are rightly proud of what they have achieved individually, but they are equally proud of the remarkable milestones we have witnessed together, such as the creation of the Gulf Common Market, through our special bond, common qualities and shared vision.

"Our decision to take part in Expo 2020 Dubai reflects these historical, social, economic and cultural ties, which will only be strengthened by this extraordinary experience," he added.

Opening on 20th October 2020, the exhibition is projected to attract many millions of visitors, with 70 percent expected to come from outside the UAE, the largest proportion of international visitors in the 166-year history of World Expos.

More than 150 countries have now confirmed, either publicly or privately, that they will take, while more than 200 participants, including nations, companies, NGOs and educational institutions, are expected to participate in total.