What made this Expo exceptional was that it happened in the middle of a global pandemic where live events grew to a standstill. The Expo welcomed over 24 million visitors safely and securely and inspired conversations around hope and resilience.
So, what can entrepreneurs and businesses learn from Expo 2020 Dubai?
FOCUS ON CREATING AN INCLUSIVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
From business networking, government and NGO forums, children’s activities, to concerts across a variety of interests, the Expo provided different types of experiences for different audiences, delivered by equally diverse teams.
Applying this in business means paying attention to the needs beyond your immediate target audiences. By being more inclusive, businesses contribute to building a strong and loyal customer base and a wider reach.
IT IS NOT JUST ABOUT YOU, IT IS ALSO ABOUT US
While the Expo was a great opportunity for the UAE to tell its story, it was set against the backdrop of the greater story of humanity. No matter how diverse the expressions were in each of the 192 country pavilions, they were all tied together along the easy-to-understand themes of Opportunity, Sustainability and Mobility.
Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of overly focusing on what makes them unique to the point of alienating themselves from their target audiences. However, the potential of your company’s brand is only tapped when people relate with it and make it a part of their lives. Connect with your audiences and they will give back to you.
TURN CHALLENGES INTO OPPORTUNITIES TO STAND OUT
This is what many consider to be the biggest achievement of the Expo 2020 Dubai. In the middle of the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, the organizers implemented measures that ensured the safety of the visitors and the staff onsite.
The important lesson here for businesses is to not be afraid of challenges. Take them into account in your plans. Be decisive. Be flexible.
The success of Expo 2020 Dubai is rooted in the spirit of determination and resilience of the UAE. This makes it an incredibly beneficial place to thrive in business and beyond.