The UAE is gearing up to host the COP28 summit at Expo City Dubai from 30 November to 12 December 2023. Anticipated to draw over 70,000 participants, the conference will bring together heads of state, government officials, international industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, experts, youth, and non-state actors. During the summit, residents will have the opportunity to visit Expo and engage in events, workshops and musicals in the Green Zone.
Situated in Expo City Dubai's Sustainability District, the Green Zone is set to be a focal point. Offering over 100 free events and workshops open to the public, it will serve as the world's largest gathering of climate activists. The Green Zone will feature climate-inspired interactive exhibits, art installations, film screenings, and over 300 talks and discussions addressing topics related to climate change and sustainability.
The Green Zone's official operating hours are from 10am to 6pm, with select events extending into the evening from 6pm to 10pm. Some of the workshops and events include:
Workshops On Farming And Agriculture
Growing within Al Forsan Park is Expo City Farm, cultivating over 10 types of crops, including fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, and medicinal herbs. Visitors can witness firsthand the workings of regenerative agriculture, which involves rotating crops to enhance biodiversity.
Workshops on hydroponic food production and sustainable farming are scheduled, with discussions designed to be accessible to all, avoiding technical jargon.
In addition, farm-to-table dining experiences will be offered. The farm will serve as a venue for community workshops and cooking classes led by sustainability-focused chefs and professionals, emphasising the importance of minimising food wastage.
Climate Action Musical
Geared towards a younger audience, a unique musical titled 'Alya in Terraland' is set to be performed for free at Terra Auditorium on 7, 11, and 12 December. This 45-minute original production incorporates hip-hop music to promote environmental awareness. The story follows Alya, a character from the UAE, as she encounters creatures like an upset orangutan and a knowledgeable octopus, who illustrate how human actions impact the environment. The musical concludes with Alya and the characters urging the audience to actively participate in climate action.
Exhibitions At Women's Pavilion
Starting on 3 December, the Women’s Pavilion will share narratives centred around land and sea. The exhibition will feature photography, craft, video, and art installations, encouraging individuals to contribute to a fair and sustainable future, and placing women and girls at the forefront of this transformative journey.
Visitors can explore the 'Reflections on Climate Change' exhibition, delving into the history and objectives of COPs, along with discovering diverse initiatives that individuals can engage with.
COP 28 Green Zone
If you're considering attending the COP28 summit in Dubai, it's important to reserve your spot and acquire your Green Zone Day Pass promptly. Children aged 12 and under do not need to register for admission. Each ticket is specific to the chosen day, providing access only on that particular date. Each ticket is single-use, allowing scanning for entry once, and cannot be utilised for multiple entries. To book a Green Zone Day Pass, visit the COP28 website.
Visitors are advised to opt for the Dubai Metro, the fastest and most sustainable mode of transportation to reach COP28’s Green and Blue Zones.