Mara Group Gets Behind Dubai Expo 2020 and Calls on African Leaders to Back the UAE's Bid

Mara Group urges African business leaders not to miss out on the long-term growth and investment opportunities that a World Expo in Dubai in 2020 could bring

DUBAI, UAE, Oct. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- With less than 8 weeks to go until the 167 member nations of the Bureau International des Exhibition (BIE) cast their votes for the host of the 2020 World Expo, Mara Group - the pan-African, multi-sector business conglomerate - has declared its official support for the UAE's bid, stating that Dubai Expo 2020 is an opportunity not to be missed for the future development of African nations.

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Ashish J. Thakkar, Founder of Mara Group, said: "As the world witnesses one of the most transformative geo-economic shifts from the West to emerging markets, Africa is becoming an increasingly important focus for global businesses today. With the UAE already serving as a gateway for international investment flows both in and out of Africa, a World Expo in Dubai in 2020 would further cement Dubai's position as a global trading hub, opening up even more opportunities for countries, businesses and individuals across Africa to capitalise on this historic moment."

"Dubai has been the home of Mara Group since 1996 and remains critical to our pan-African expansion. I would urge leaders across the African nations to embrace the opportunity that Dubai Expo 2020 represents and proactively support the bid in order to ensure its success."

Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State and Managing Director for the Dubai Expo 2020 bid, said: "From the very start, our bid has always been about more than just Dubai and the UAE. Hosting the World Expo in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region for the first time, on the eve of the UAE's 50th anniversary celebrations, carries profound meaning and creates an environment for exceptional opportunity. The UAE is not only well connected to Africa but we share many historic trade and cultural ties and the support from Mara is warmly welcomed. We remain committed to making the first ever Expo for this region one of promise, innovation and creativity that will deliver opportunity and impact for all under the theme Connecting Minds, Creating the Future."

With the strength of the UAE's robust infrastructure, geographical positioning and global connectivity, Dubai Expo 2020 can expect to attract 25 million visitors, offering a diverse and exciting international profile for visitors and participants alike. Furthermore, for the first time in the history of World Expo, more than 70% of the visitors are likely to stem from beyond the host nation, offering opportunities to both the developed and developing world.

"The UAE is an important hub for African nations, as it acts as a gateway to Asia, Europe and North America. Dubai Expo 2020 would not only be a win for the UAE, but for us in Africa too. Let's back it!" added Ashish.

Dubai is competing against three other candidate cities for the honour of hosting the World Expo 2020. The final decision will be made on November 27^th in Paris at the BIE General Assembly.