A Study on “Impact of Expo 2020, Dubai in Hospitality industry

of Dubai: A case study of Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira

Creek”

International School of Tourism and Hotel Management

Affiliate to Salzburg University of Applied Sciences

Salzburg, Austria

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of

FHS Diploma in Hotel Management (FHSDHM)

By

Prasanta Panta

Roll No: 19066

Registration No: FHS 018 IST 0066
February 2022
 DECLARATION
This is certify that this thesis entitled “A study on Impact of Expo 2020, Dubai in Hospitality
Industry Of Dubai” which is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award
of the degree of FHS Diploma in Hotel Management (FHSDHM) to Salzburg University of
Applied sciences (FHS), Austria comprises only my original work and due acknowledgement
has been made in the text to all other material used.
 APPROVAL

This is to certify that the thesis

Submitted by:
Prasanta panta

Entitled:
Impact of Expo 2020, Dubai in the hospitality industry of Dubai: A case study in
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek

Has been prepared as approved by this college International School of Tourism and Hotel
Management (IST) in the prescribed format of Salzburg University of Applied Sciences
(FHS), Austria. This thesis is forwarded for examination.

Supervisor: Head, Research Department

Name: Signature:
Signature:

Campus Chief
Signature:

Date:
 Acknowledgement
I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all those who provided me the possibility
to complete this report. I would like to express my gratitude to International School of
Tourism and Hotel Management affiliated to Salzburg University of applied sciences and
technology for including the thesis report under Research Methodology subject during my
internship. I would like to thank Mr. Saroj Pokhrel for guiding stimulating giving
suggestion and encouraging me to prepare this report.
Furthermore I would like to acknowledge with much appreciation to the Radisson Blu, Dubai
Deira Creek and website of Radisson Blu Hotel for providing information which helped me a
lot while preparing this report. Lastly I cannot miss to those staffs of Radisson Blu Hotal,
who openly answered my question.
Prasanta Panta
Kathmandu, Nepal
Intake2018
Contents
CHAPTER 1.............................................................................................................................................1
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Background..............................................................................................................................1
1.2 Statement of problems............................................................................................................5
1.3 Research Objective..................................................................................................................6
1.4 Significance of the Study..........................................................................................................7
1.5 Conceptual framework............................................................................................................7
CHAPTER 2.............................................................................................................................................8
LITERATURE REVIEW..........................................................................................................................8
CHAPTER 3...........................................................................................................................................13
Research methodology....................................................................................................................13
References...........................................................................................................................................20
 CHAPTER 1
Introduction
1.1 Background
Expos are global events dedicated to finding solutions to fundamental challenges facing
humanity by offering a journey inside a chosen theme through engaging and immersive
activities. Organized and facilitated by governments and bringing together countries and
international organizations (official Participants), these major public events are unrivalled in
their ability to gather millions of visitors, create new dynamics and catalyze change in their
host countries or cities.
Four types of Expos are organized under the auspices of the Bureau International des
Expositions (BIE): World Expos, Specialized Expos, Horticultural Expos, and the Triennale
di Milano.
1.1.1History of Expo
Since 1851, Expos have helped humanity make sense of change and chart a more progressive
future by gathering people and nations under the common banner of Education, Innovation
and Cooperation. As mirrors of their time, Expos have always served to reflect evolving
priorities and worldviews, all while anticipating a future shaped by technological progress.
From their earliest manifestations as a showcase of industrial prowess to their modern
incarnation as platforms for cross-border collaboration, Expos have transformed cities,
shaped debates on key issues, and provided unforgettable experiences to hundreds of millions
of visitors
Birth of a concept: The Great Exhibition of 1851
Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, spearheaded ‘The Great
Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations’, which was held in the custom-built
Crystal Palace between May and October 1851. Reflecting the rapid changes of the industrial
revolution, the very first World Expo was a unique gathering of nations, showcasing material
progress based on technological innovation. By bringing together the best and most advanced
creations from around the world, the Expo fostered a form of peaceful competition, but
moreover sought to encourage the exchange of ideas and inspire visitors.
Showcasing progress in a changing world
The concept – educating the public, promoting exchange and exhibiting new ideas and
products proved popular and was readily repeated across the world. In particular, France
organized five Expositions Universals in Paris between 1855 and 1900, consolidating the
establishment of Expos as the most important events of cultural exchange, and as major
diplomatic and economic gatherings. The growing recognition and importance of Expos gave
rise to the flourishing development of international congresses and conventions leading to
stronger cross-border cooperation in fields as varied as intellectual property, labor rights,
sport, and education.
Expos became the foremost events for showcasing new technologies and inventions, and for
realizing architectural and technical feats, such as the Eiffel Tower or moving walkways. In
turn, they became the ideal venues for nation branding, giving countries the opportunity to
promote their art, culture and engineering accomplishments. The emergence of recognizable
country pavilions starting with the façades of the Rue des Nations in the French Expos
exemplified the beginnings of this growing form of public diplomacy.
The multiplication of Expos organized under different rules and with different focal points
led to the idea of setting up a common organizational framework. This project, first mooted
by Germany in 1913, eventually came to fruition in Paris in 1928, when 31 countries signed
the Convention relating to international exhibitions. The Convention defined Expo types,
their duration and their frequency, established a regulatory procedure for host and participant
countries, and created a governing body to apply the Convention: The Bureau International
des Expositions (BIE).
Dawn of a new era
The impact of World War II and its aftermath changed the focus of Expos: the fascination for
material progress gave way to the promotion of quality of life and international dialogue.
Technology was still at the center of Expos, but as a means of promoting human development
rather than as an end in itself. By creating a platform for discussion and by showcasing ideas
and inventions in favor of better lives, Expos became global platforms for exchange and
discussion. The evolving themes of the Expos from the 1950s onwards demonstrated this
shift, including “Progress and Mankind” at Expo 1958 Brussels, or “Man and his World” at
Expo 1967 Montreal.
At the same time, the process of decolonization led to an increase in the number of
independent nations and therefore participants in Expos. From 39 countries participating in
Expo 1958, the number of participating countries continued to grow, reaching 155 at the turn
of the century with Expo 2000 Hannover. This evolution had the effect of broadening the
scope of Expos to encompass wider perspectives, giving all countries an equal chance to
shape the debate, showcase their solutions and project soft power in an increasingly
globalized and interconnected world.
Building a better future
These global challenges were explicitly tied with Expos when, in 1994, the BIE General
Assembly adopted a resolution guaranteeing that all Expos have “a commitment to the
supreme importance for Humanity of due respect for Nature and the environment”. This
principle highlighted at Expo 2000 Hannover through “Man, Nature, Technology” – is a
focus of all modern-day Expos, which address global challenges through the lens of
sustainability.
In the 21st century, participation in Expos has been widened to include civil society, cities
and regions, and international organizations. Through thematic forums and, starting with
Expo 2010 Shanghai, Best Practice areas – ideas, solutions and technologies from across the
world are showcased to encourage international exchange.
Today, by providing a unique space for cross-cultural cooperation, Expos serve as
transformational instruments of progress in all areas of human life and endeavor. In the past
170 years, the format and scope of Expos has evolved and adapted, reflecting changing
political, economic and social currents. Moving with their time since 1851, Expos are a link
between the past, the present and the future, promoting the same values and goals of
gathering the world in favor of progress for all.
Expo 2020 is a World Expo, currently hosted by Dubai in the United Arab Emirates from 1 October 2021
to 31 March 2022. Originally scheduled for 20 October 2020 to 10 April 2021, it was postponed due to
the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite being postponed, organizers kept the name Expo
2020 for marketing and branding purposes. The Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) general
assembly in Paris named Dubai as the host on 27 November 2013.

Expo 2020 Dubai is the Universal. As main objective of Expo is to raise public awareness, to share
change, to encourage progress and to convey experiences in its own field. So, main purpose of Expo
2020 is “connecting minds, creating future”. Which is based on the belief that bringing the world
together can catalyze an exchange of new perspectives and inspire action to deliver real-life solutions
to real-world challenges.
For 170 years, World Expos have provided a platform to showcase the greatest innovations that have
shaped the world we live in today. Expo 2020 will continue that tradition with the latest technology
from around the globe. In the spirit of innovation and positive change for the future, Expo 2020 is a
global platform dedicated to bringing people, communities and nations together to build bridges,
enable action and inspire solutions toward some of the world’s most challenging issues. Expo 2020
represents the hope and belief in the power and impact of human innovation, imagination and
ingenuity.
Event site
The main site of Expo 2020 Dubai is a 438-hectare area (1083 acres) located between the cities of Dubai
and Abu Dhabi, near Dubai's southern border with Abu Dhabi. The master plan, designed by the American
firm HOK, is organized around a central plaza, entitled Al Wasl, enclosed by three large thematic districts.
Each one is dedicated to one of the sub-themes of Expo 2020 – Opportunity, Mobility and
Sustainability. The infrastructure of the 4.38 km2 Expo 2020 site was built by Orascom and BESIX. The
site has an emergency Centre which includes an isolation room, emergency care room, ambulances and
helicopter services.
The site also features the ROVE Expo 2020 which is the only hotel located at the site. The hotel features
312 rooms and 19 suites with a rooftop pool and views of Al Wasl Plaza.

Opening Ceremony
Expo 2020 was officially opened on 30 September 2021. The ceremony featured performances by Italian
tenor Andrea Bocelli ("The Prayer"), Emirati singer-composer, Hussain Al Jassmi, Mayssa Karaa and
Almas singing the Expo's theme song, "This Is Our Time", British singer Ellie Goulding ("Anything Could
Happen"), Beninese singer Angélique Kidjo and Saudi singer Mohammed Abdu (a duet of John Legend's
"If You're Out There"), American singer Andra Day ("Rise Up"), and Chinese pianist Lang Lang, among
others. The opening declaration was made by the Emir of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al
Maktoum.
Transportation to the Expo
The Expo 2020 metro station connects the site to other localities in Dubai, along the Dubai Metro's Red
Line directly to the entrance of the Dubai Exhibition Centre and Al Wasl Gate. Alternatively, Dedicated
shuttle buses known as Expo Riders ferry people from all over Dubai to the Expo site and back. Shuttle
buses and taxis from RTA also travel to the Expo site. The metro, taxi and buses are paid for with the
RTA's Nol card while the Expo Rider buses are free. The Expo Rider buses stop at the arrival plazas of the
3 thematic districts in front of the 3 huge gates and a separate branch of Expo Rider buses transport people
from the arrival plazas to the parking areas. Getting there by road is another option. People drive on the
roads leading to the site and have to follow the signs to the designated parking areas.
Theme
The theme of the Expo is "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future". The expo will also have three
subthemes: opportunity, mobility and sustainability, each with its own pavilion.
 Mission Possible – The Opportunity Pavilion is designed by AGi Architects,
 Alif – The Mobility Pavilion by Foster and Partners. The Mobility Pavilion will include the
world's largest passenger lift (capable of transporting more than 160 people).
 Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion by Grimshaw Architects. The Sustainability Pavilion in the
sustainability district, there will be a Hammour House which explores coral reefs; a district stage
that seats 300, and several national pavilions: Brazil's Walk through a waterfall, the Czech
Republic's Water the desert, Singapore's Enter a rainforest, Germany's Wear cutting-edge devices,
the UAE's Terra – The Sustainability Pavilion, and the Netherlands' Enter a miniature
world pavilion.
In 2021 it was announced that the three thematic pavilions would open for a limited time before the full
opening of the expo. The Sustainability Pavilion Terra opened on 22 January 2021 until 10 April 2021.

Pavilions
Expo 2020 has 191 participant country’s pavilions, 13 patterner’s pavilions, 10 organizations pavilions and
7 special pavilions.
Activities
Following are the main activities in Expo 2020, Dubai UAE
1. Architecture
2. Arts and culture
3. Business and Entrepreneurship
4. Country pavilions and Exhibitions
5. Food and Beverage
6. Innovation and Technology
7. Live Events and Performance
8. Mobility
9. Opportunity
10. Retail and Merchandise
11. Sports, Fitness and Wellbeing
12. Sustainability
Expo 2020 is one of the biggest events in the world, which brings people from all over the world. And
people from the different nation, culture can experience world at single event site. As this place is
connected to world, it has definitely some positive and negative impact to the host country in ;
1. Society and culture
2. Business and economy
3. Environment
1.1.2About Hotel
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek is first five star and international chain hotel in
historic Dubai. Which was opened in 1975. Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek is located
in the heart of the city's business and shopping districts and minutes from Dubai International
Airport. The Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek, which is the most established five-star
hotel in Dubai, is also a winner of many prestigious awards, including 'Best Business Hotel in
the Middle East' as voted by the UK's Business Traveler and Business Asia magazines in
conjunction with CNBC viewers.
The hotel offers 287 comfortable guest rooms, including 30 suites and 15 Business rooms, all
with spectacular views and balconies. Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek offers 13 food
and beverage outlets with ten restaurants and three bars providing a variety of international
cuisine, from regional specialties at Shabestan and Japanese cuisine at Minato, Indo-Chinese
restaurant, Yum, Chinese fine dining restaurant China Club, middle east and Iranian cuisine,
Aseelah, One of the popular market style and seafood restaurant, Fish Market, Korean
barbeque style restaurant, Sumibiya, One English Pub, The Pub, and some of night club and
bar named, Kubu, Marble and Up on The Tenth. 24-hour dining in Boulvar restaurant. And
beautiful creek view restaurant, Royal Club.
Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Deira Creek's fitness facilities include the newly revamped Inter
Fitness, a 24-hour, award-winning health club featuring an outdoor swimming pool, floodlit
tennis court, two championship squash courts and a state-of-the-art gymnasium.

1.2 Statement of problems

1.2.1 COVID -19

Expo 2020, Dubai is being a global exposition, it should have proper planning and
preparation. Though there was proper planning, the whole world was going through an
uncontrollable pandemic; COVID-19.
Due to this pandemic, the air transportation had to close down. Due to this most of the hotel’s
occupancy fall down. It was so hard to cover even operating cost of the hotel and other
hospitality business. A lot of people lost their job during this pandemic. The event, Expo
itself postponed for a year.
In 2020, the globally expanding COVID-19 pandemic brought Expo 2020 Dubai under
scrutiny, as the event was expected to attract nearly 25 million visitors in October that
year. In March, the Geneva Council for Rights and Liberties warned against the abuse and
exploitation of migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates. While rest of the country was
under a lockdown due to the spread of coronavirus, the migrants continued to work on Expo
2020. The Geneva Council condemned the “discriminatory treatment of migrant workers”,
urging the WHO to encourage the UAE to ensure their health and safety.
On 25 March 2020, a staff member was tested positive.
On 30 March 2020, the expo indicated that it was investigating postponement of the world's
fair, which would require a two thirds' majority agreement from a BIE annual general
meeting. On 4 April 2020, the BIE announced that a meeting of the executive committee
would take place virtually on 21 April to discuss a proposal to hold the expo between 1
October 2021 and 31 March 2022. A final decision would need a two thirds majority vote
from BIE members.
On 21 April, the executive committee unanimously agreed to delay the expo until 1 October
2021 – 31 March 2022, with this then going to a remote vote of the general assembly. There
is no proposal to change the name of the expo.
On 4 May 2020, the BIE announced that the threshold to agree a delay had been
passed, although the vote was to open until 29 May. At 6pm Paris time, 29 May, the decision
was confirmed, along with retention of the name Expo 2020 Dubai. New dates have been
announced for 1 October 2021 – 31 March 2022.
On 15 September 2021, organizers announced that visitors to Expo 2020 will be required to
present a proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours.

The rising number of Covid-19 cases in the UAE has created more difficulties for the
organizers of Expo 2020 Dubai. In an official statement on 27 December, organizers said
"venues may [close] temporarily for deep cleaning and sanitization in response to positive
cases detected by extensive workforce testing protocols, as well as for maintenance, private
events and staff shortages". No details on the number of cases detected at the expo site were
mentioned. A restaurant named Sushiro, part of the Japanese pavilion, reported positive cases
on 21 December among staff members and was subsequently shut down. Meanwhile, media
will be required to present 48-hour PCR negative reports prior to accessing the media
Centre from 30 December. Free tests are available at the Expo testing centers, provided a
valid media accreditation pass is shown. Previously on 21 December, the
organizers announced the temporary cancellation of close-contact events such as parades and
roving entertainers, and the addition of another PCR testing center on-site. Celebrations in the
run-up to New Year’s Day remain in place, including concerts and firework displays. A
festive pass for Expo, valid until 31 December, has now been extended to 7 January 2022.
Organizers say that the "health, safety and wellbeing of everyone continue to be of the
highest priority and organizers remain committed to working with participants to welcome
visitors to a safe and exceptional Expo". The UAE reported 2,234 new Covid-19 cases on 29
December, the highest in six months. The government has also approved the emergency use
of Sinopharm's protein-based Covid-19 vaccine as a booster dose starting January 2022.
1.3 Research Objective
A research objective is a clear, concise, declarative statement, which provides direction to
investigate the variables. This research helps to know that,
1. To know the economic impact in the hospitality industry
2. To know the social and cultural impact in hospitality industry,
3. To know the environmental impact in hospitality industry.
4. To know COVID-19 related problems to Expo and hospitality industry

1.4 Significance of the Study

The main significance of the study is that it will help for future references or guideline for
research. It will further enhance the knowledge on the subject mattered concerned. It will also
give some more information about the expo 2020, Dubai. And how this global event help in
entire economy of the country. It also helps in the different aspect of impact in the hospitality
industry of Dubai and UAE. The concerned authority get more beneficial by this report. This
report will also be useful to know the benefits and drawback of big expo event like expo 2020
Dubai.

1.5 Conceptual framework

An exhibition, in the most general sense, is an organized presentation and display of a
selection of items. In practice, exhibitions usually occur within a cultural or educational
setting such as a museum, art gallery, park, library, exhibition hall, or World's fairs.
Exhibitions can include many things such as art in both major museums and smaller galleries,
interpretive exhibitions, natural history museums and history museums, and also varieties
such as more commercially focused exhibitions and trade fairs.

1.6Chapter Organization

This research will contain 6 chapters.

 First chapter will include introduction, background, problem of statement, research

objective, significance, and conceptual framework
 Second chapter will include literature review,
 Chapter three will include Research methodology,
 Chapter four will include Data presentation,
 Chapter five will include Data Analysis and
 Chapter six will include summary, conclusion and recommendation.
 CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Review of previous Literatures

There are various studies that have been carried out and various literatures are available on
Expo 2020. The literatures that are used in this report the researcher have provided that how
dubai is preparing pre-expo and post expo event in hospitality industry. Which will help to
get the impact of Expo 2020, Dubai, in hospitality industry of Dubai: A case study in
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek. The researcher has consulted some of website, news
and articles brochures and books to get information about impact of Expo in hospitality
industry.

What must Dubai’s hospitality and tourism industry do to be ready pre- and post-event?
(Stuart Jauncey Sanjay Nadkarni, 2019)

A majority of the authors contributing to this publication have lived, taught and researched in
Dubai for many years. All of them have experienced the excitement of the rapid growth and
transformation of this destination during the start of this century, they lived and worked
through the economic downturn from 2008, and all would agree that we are now seeing the
re-emergence of a strong tourism-based economy, based on political stability, good
governance and visionary leadership. This is an exciting time and place to be teaching
International Hospitality Management not only because all of the major brands are
represented in Dubai but also because Expo 2020 will be hosted here and this massive global
event will drive major developments including additional theme parks, zoos, shopping malls
and attractions. It is easy to believe that the current room stock of 60,000 will grow, as
predicted, by 2020 to at least 100,000 hotel rooms directly employing half a million people.
The foreseeable future for Dubai as a tourism destination is indeed bright. Some academics
already talk of this destination being a “Global Beacon” for travel and tourism. Supporting
this is the climate, natural and man-made attractiveness along with its location and
superstructures. Dubai is within seven hours flight of three quarters of the world’s population,
and with the easing of restrictions on travel out of the East, the market potential is simply
incredible. The infrastructure developments of new airports (Dubai World) and the rapid
expansion of Emirates Airlines and its growing affiliations with other providers, increases the
accessibility of this destination. Further, travel within the boundaries of Dubai and the UAE
is becoming increasingly easier due to the network of trams, trains and roads. While each of
the five articles in this theme issue collection have highlighted the beacon status of Dubai,
they have also identified a range of factors which if addressed could further enhance the
strength of destination image and attractiveness. The discussions around global visa
facilitation and making better provision for disabled travelers are important, as they could
lead to opening this destination to further markets. The papers focusing on a digital roadmap,
innovation in housekeeping and environmental communications are equally important, as
these underpin the competitive advantage of both individual businesses and of a destination
as a whole. The impact of visas on destination choice and perception is a fascinating topic,
especially if you recognize visa restrictions as a form of legitimized discrimination. The
debate does not challenge the rights of a country to protect its boarders from criminals or
terrorists, but it does highlight the political nature of travel restrictions that are enforced to
reciprocate against other countries’ restrictions. It further highlights the waste of resources
and costs of the continued use of outdated paper-based systems by some destinations. At best,
for tourists, visa restrictions are regarded as a “necessary bother”, and one has to question
why these restrictions still exist in a digital age where detailed personal data are freely
available and where specific data on criminality and even lifestyles are harvested continually
by security forces around the world. It would be interesting to know how many potential
terrorist threats have been averted through the non-issue of a visa as opposed to the careful
and effective tracking of individuals and groups by international security forces and
professionals. The paper on accessible accommodation in Dubai highlights a range of
facilitation factors for attracting and catering to the needs of the massive tourism market for
disabled travelers. First, there is the need for clearer and better communicated legislation, so
that the providers of accommodation and the potential tourists with disabilities know their
rights and obligations. Then, there is the need to expand managers’ understanding of the
categories of disability, from their current focus on wheelchair users to include the full range
of sight, sound, mobility and cognitive restrictions and challenges, that a growing body of
guests face. With an estimated 15 per cent of the global population living with a disability, it
seems quite remarkable that these issues are not addressed, especially when one remembers
that most vacations are taken in family units or groups, and that statistically any group of
more than seven people is likely to contain at least one person with a disability. We should
also remember that not all disabilities are permanent and that the same facilities,
understanding and training that we could instill in our hotel operations would also greatly
enhance the experience of guests who fall sick or who injure themselves while on holiday.
With strong and astute leadership, Dubai is well placed to hold and further develop its
competitive advantage as a destination. But this advantage can only be capitalized on through
digital communications. One of the warnings from the Digital Roadmap paper is the danger
of a disconnect between digital content and reality, possibly caused by outsourcing website
management to a company who fails to keep abreast of destination or company
developments. This has always been a challenge – especially when marketing and
communication activities are distanced from actual operations, but in the digital age, when
things change and happen so quickly, it is obviously vital to maintain strong adhesion
between the two. In this paper, there was also a really interesting discussion of the value of
using local domain names to enhance and reinforce a local cultural connection and to better
exploit local markets through their commitment to their own community. This is a fascinating
point that deserves further research and exploration, especially in the light of the emerging
semantic Web which is often seen to be a driver of globalization. In a similar vein to digital
enhancements, housekeeping provisions and services are recognized as being vital to the
commercial success of a hotel. Here, the challenges to innovation are seen to be local
ownership, or more precisely, the demand for rapid and high returns on investment that limit
the opportunities to refresh in room services and facilities. Other challenges to innovation
were found to come from the standard operating procedures inflicted by some of the global
brands and the fact that managers within this department are often regarded as passing over
an occupational stepping stone to a more senior position and therefore tend not to stay in the
role long enough to have a reflective and innovative impact. As a result, housekeeping
provisions and services are reported to have seen little change for decades other than in the
implementation of information technology. The author of this paper argues the need for the
development of a culture of innovation and change by promoting idea creation and
organizational learning. There may also be a need for hotel companies to accept and resource
their role in terms of researching in-room and facility innovations, for such innovations could
again drive commercial success through competitive advantage. The final area that has been
discussed in this theme issue – also with the potential to drive commercial advantage and
success – is environmental communications. Certainly, since the 1990s, operators in our
industry have recognized the significant financial benefits that can be achieved through the
effective management of water, energy and waste streams. Increasingly, the markets are
expecting to see a broader engagement with the wider sustainable and corporate social
responsibility issues of economic, social and environmental impact and to see reported how
these are working together to benefit the local community. Keeping in mind the importance
of the local community to hotel operators, as a source of labour and as an attraction to the
destination, it is surprising to learn that “reporting a company’s corporate information is not a
high priority in Dubai” and to further discover that less than one-third of Dubai-based hotels
have an environmental strategy and that only a quarter of those that do have a strategy
actually have a report documenting their performance against their strategic intent.
Preparing for Expo 2020: Some opportunities and recommendations
There is no doubt that Dubai is a flourishing tourism destination and that its growth is assured
through wise and focused leadership. But the growth of Dubai as a destination (and probably
all other tourism destinations) would be further enhanced through the global removal of
outdated and discriminatory travel visa restrictions, the fully considered implementation of
facilities and training for the full range of tourists with permanent or temporary disabilities,
the enactment of a carefully constructed digital roadmap, the sponsorship of innovation in
housekeeping and through addressing the growing market concerns for measurable and
reported corporate social responsibility action plans. As Jago et al. (2010) have inferred, trade
and innovation spin-offs accruing to the host city from a mega business event, such as the
Expo, are numerous. Effective management in the run up to and the actual execution of mega
events provide the host city with greater visibility and positive media exposure resulting in an
upturn in tourism receipts (Chen, 2012). The virtues of hosting a mega event notwithstanding,
Lamberti et al. (2011) flag the complexity of managing massive events and the dangers of
underestimating the magnitude of the challenge especially in an emerging market context.
The lessons learnt from the initial phase of Dubai’s urban planning and infrastructure
development will stand it in good stead to overcome these challenges. In recent years, Dubai
has developed an excellent track record in the creation of physical infrastructure and has seen
vast improvements and efficiencies in the delivery of public services. The challenge for the
host city is to ensure convergence between the urban infrastructure development and planning
strategy on the one hand and the Expo’s requirements and objectives on the other. In addition
to government entities, the private sector and the community at large also form an important
part of the Expo stakeholder value chain. Thus, it is imperative for them to work in tandem.
Again, Dubai Government’s ability to successfully marshal the support of the private sector
and the community at large during the Expo 2020 bid process augurs well for a coordinated
strategy among all the stakeholders. A news item dated 2 March 2014 in one of the UAE’s
leading English language newspapers, the “Gulf News” reported that almost three quarters of
private-sector companies in Dubai plan to adopt global sustainability benchmarks as a
commitment to the green economy in the run up to Expo 2020. In addition to environmental
and socio-economic sustainability, the legal framework, capacity building among UAE
nationals and rebalancing of the expatriate talent pool along with supply of the prerequisite
social infrastructure, particularly affordable housing in an increasingly over-heated real estate
sector, are some of the issues that are bound to keep policymakers busy. The discussion thus
far has been focused on the stakeholder’s role in creating an enabling environment in the run
up to Expo 2020. Equally, if not more important, is the need to ensure that in the post
capacity and infrastructure continue to yield a positive return. This aspect is particularly
important from Dubai’s perspective, given the nature of an expatriate dominated workforce,
many of whom are employed in the service-driven sectors. Though the market dynamics of
the last host city, Shanghai, are different from that of Dubai, it is noteworthy that hotel
revenues decreased significantly on the back of a fall in year-on-year visitor numbers in the
aftermath of the Expo 2010 (Savills Research China, 2012). By sustaining and growing the
momentum of economic and social activity post 2020, Dubai will be able recuperate costs by
optimal utilization of the assets created for the Expo. This will require some “out of the box”
thinking on the part of policymakers and city planners. Though cost projections vary, Basit
(2013) has stated USD 8.5 billion as the estimated cost for hosting the event which is forecast
to generate over a quarter of a million job opportunities, 40 per cent of which will be in
hospitality-related businesses. There is already evidence of such “forward thinking” – the
Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing’s plans to increase visitor numbers
to 20 million by 2020 (and this was prior to the Expo 2020 bid), and the construction of the
Dubai World Central airport purported to be the world’s largest at 142 square kilometers
reflects this objective.

Due to the very recent nature of the announcement, there is almost no literature dealing
directly with the relationship between Dubai and the Expo 2020. However, there has been
considerable commentary in the form of political and economic punditry, much of which is
academic. Piers Schreiber, Vice President of Corporate Communications & Public Affairs at
the Jumeirah Group, claimed that ‘the Expo will create up to 270,000 jobs in the region,
bringing great economic and social benefits’ (cited in Wilson, 2013). Among these are an
injection of roughly €17.7 billion into the economy and a migration of talent from abroad
(Wilson, 2013). These estimations are supported by the forecasting group Oxford Economics,
which claims that the event will contribute nearly $40 billion to Dubai’s GDP and create
277,000 new jobs over the next seven years (Big News Network, 2013). A similar argument
is put forward by Rose and Spiegel (2009), whose work suggests that ‘mega events’ lead to a
substantial increase in trade (approx. 30%); however, they also show that ‘unsuccessful bids
to host the Olympics have a similar positive impact on exports…trade is attributable to the
signal a country sends when bidding to host the games, rather than the act of actually holding
a mega-event’ (p1).
Although Sheik Mohammed has claimed that the “Dubai Expo 2020 will breathe new life
into the ancient role of the Middle East as a melting pot for cultures and creativity” (Big
News Network, 2013), the goal of cultural diversity has been questioned due to the strong
emphasis on boosting an ‘Islamic economy’, which suggests continuity more than change
(Wilson, 2013).
Based on comparisons with other ‘mega events’, it is often argued that the effects of the Expo
2020 are likely to be negative for Dubai. Rose and Spiegel (2009), for example, stress that
much of the evidence for the benefits of mega events is commissioned by groups with biasing
agendas (e.g., Humphreys and Plummer, 1995; Fuller and Clinch, 2000, both cited in Rose
and Spiegel, 2009). The same is argued by Nitsch and Wendland (2013), who also point to
the large initial investment in facilities and infrastructure associated with mega events, which
can place a considerable burden on the local or national economy; there tends also to be a
dramatic and unpredictable effect on property prices. The conclusion of Nitsch and Wendland
(2013) is that mega events tend to have an overwhelmingly negative effect on population
growth (i.e., a population decline), as measured relative to a control group.
However, Nitsch and Wendland (2013), and Rose and Spiegel (2009), point to the difficulty
of estimating the impact of major events. Problems quantifying the effects, especially on
phenomena such as labor markets, are often exacerbated by the fact that many studies are
commissioned ex ante by biased groups. Moreover, in conducting analyses such as this, it is
difficult to find an adequate sample size due to the infrequency of mega events. Then there
are problems with the intangibility of cultural and social spillover effects, as well as the
economic multiplier (Rose and Spiegel, 2009).
 CHAPTER 3
Research methodology
The researcher has used research methodology to collect information and data for the purpose
of making business decisions. The researcher has used both the quantitative and qualitative
research method for the report on the topic of Impact of Expo 2020 in the hospitality industry
of Dubai: A case study in Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek.

Quantitative Research

In quantitative method the researcher has emphasized the objective measurements and the
statistical, mathematical, or numerical analysis of data collected through questionnaires, and
surveys, or by manipulating pre-existing statistical data using computational techniques. The
goal in conducting quantitative research study is to determine the relationship between one
thing and independent variable and another dependent or outcome variable within a
population.

Qualitative research

In qualitative research the researcher has used to gain an understanding of underlying

reasons, opinions, and motivations. It provides insights into the problem or helps to develop
ideas or hypotheses for potential quantitative research. Qualitative Research is also used to
uncover trends in thought and opinions, and dive deeper into the problem that is found by the
survey.

3.1 Research Design

The researcher followed both quantitative and qualitative research methodology to conduct
this research. The researcher has used research design to plan and structure for investigation
so as to obtain answers to research questions. Finally, this research is descriptive in design
because of its nature which includes descriptions of phenomena studied. The data collected
for the research are qualitative in nature.

This research design investigates to know how Expo 2020 has impacted in the hospitality
industry of Dubai. And economy of whole country. Similarly, this study also uses survey in
order to collect information.
3.2Research Site
In order to meet the objective of this research, for the flexibility for researcher, the researcher
took help of the internet and also used the various websites as well as researcher took the
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek as the research site for the purpose of this research.
This is because the researcher is trainee in this hotel. The research is based Front office, Sales
and marketing and Food and Beverage department of this particular hotel for the convenience
of the researcher. The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek is an International Chain hotel
of Radisson Hotel Group.

3.3 Universe and sampling

Sampling is the method of selecting experimental units from the population so that decision
can be made about the population. For this research purpose, the entire hotel and Front office
and sales and marketing department is considered as universe of this research and the staffs
of Food and beverage department who are working in event site and guests are selected for
research where each individual are units of data collection.

3.4 Nature of Data

The data will be primary as well as secondary sources based on information available about
operation, performances, standards, etc Expo 2020 and Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira
Creek.

3.5Data collection Methods

Both the secondary and primary data are used in this research. The secondary data is gathered
from internet, books, magazines, brochures and other relevant documents. The primary data
was gathered by using following data collection methods:

 Questionnaire: A questionnaire is a research instrument consisting of a series of

questions and other prompts for the purpose of gathering information from
 respondents. The use of open and close questionnaires was done with the necessary
instructions to get the accurate answers.
 Interview: The interviews focused on examining the situation, their opinion,
suggestions and experiences towards a product, service, concept, advertisement, and
idea. The interview was conducted with 7 guests. and others were 10 employee of
hotels like the Director of Rooms, Front office director, Front office manager,
Supervisors and few other staffs of Food and Beverage department and front desk of
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek. In-depth interviews with key Informants
were conducted in the study area from the same hotel focused on examining the
situation, their suggestions and experiences. The questions were structured and see
annex for the details.
 Survey: A survey is an investigation about the characteristics of a given population
by means of collecting data from a sample of that population and estimating their
characteristics through the systematic use of statistical methodology. The survey
questionnaires are structured and are presented in the annex in detail.
3.6Data Analysis
The obtained data is analyzed and grouped for quantitative information. The similar and
different responses were classified into different headings and interpreted accordingly. This
information was specified under several headings and subheadings. For the purpose of
quantitative data, the collected information was further elaborated with the help of tables,
figures and diagrams whatever is appropriate to clarify the research problem.

3.7Limitations
The limitation of study is that the researcher will be limited within ‘Expo 2020, Dubai and
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek’. As this event is very big it is little difficult to get
accurate data. And it is difficult as very large number of People are coming to visit event
from all over the world.
The study is limited in the specific area of Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira creek. So, the
findings might not be generalized with other hotels . To get through its aim, few participants
and key informants were selected mostly purposively and its context was studied with certain
period of time. Thus, it may not provide detail information about their status and strategies of
long span of time.
3.8 Ethical Consideration

During the research of “Impact of Expo 2020, Dubai in hospitality industry of Dubai” may
come ethical issues shall be considered while preparing the thesis. The research will try best
to avoid the ethical sensitiveness. During the research, the researcher will not force to
anyone. Moreover, researcher will not collect fake and unethical data.

At the time of field research many ethical issues arose. The researcher tried best to avoid the
ethical sensitiveness and biasness. Many time words and languages were modified due to
objection of respondents. The researcher used participatory method to identify appropriate
words and then those words were used during the research period. The ethical issues were
handled sensitively and carefully. Some of the sensitive data is kept confidential to avoid
certain ethical issues. The researcher has not used the name of participants during the data
presentation process and codes were given to participants during the data analysis process.
 CHAPTER FOUR

DATA PRESENTATION
Data presentation is a process of inspecting, transforming, and modeling data with the goal of
highlighting useful information, suggesting conclusions and supporting decision making.

All the data were collected from both the primary as well as secondary sources. Secondary
data were extracted from internet and books. And all the primary data were extracted from
both interview and survey.
 References
https://www.bie-paris.org/site/en/past-expos-a-short-history-of-expos

https://www.google.com/search?
q=about+expo+2020&oq=ab&aqs=chrome.0.69i59j69i57j46i131i433i512j0i131i433j0i131i4
33i512j5l3.1776j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
https://writepass.com/journal/2017/02/the-impact-of-hosting-the-world-expo-2020-on-
dubais-future-economic-social-and-cultural-life/
https://www.meed.com/covid-concerns-trouble-expo-2020
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/
333228875_Conclusions_Expo_2020_and_Its_Impact_on_Dubai
A Study on “Impact of Expo 2020, Dubai in Hospitality industry
of Dubai: A case study of Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira
Creek”

International School of Tourism and Hotel Management

Affiliate to Salzburg University of Applied Sciences

Salzburg, Austria

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of

FHS Diploma in Hotel Management (FHSDHM)

By

Prasanta Panta
 Roll No: 19066
Registration No: FHS 018 IST 0066
February 2022

DECLARATION
This is certify that this thesis entitled “A study on Impact of Expo 2020, Dubai in Hospitality
Industry Of Dubai” which is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award
of the degree of FHS Diploma in Hotel Management (FHSDHM) to Salzburg University of
Applied sciences (FHS), Austria comprises only my original work and due acknowledgement
has been made in the text to all other material used.
 Acknowledgement
I would like to express my deepest appreciation to all those who provided me the possibility
to complete this report. I would like to express my gratitude to International School of
Tourism and Hotel Management affiliated to Salzburg University of applied sciences and
technology for including the thesis report under Research Methodology subject during my
internship. I would like to thank Mr. Saroj Pokhrel for guiding stimulating giving
suggestion and encouraging me to prepare this report.
Furthermore I would like to acknowledge with much appreciation to the Radisson Blu, Dubai
Deira Creek and website of Radisson Blu Hotel for providing information which helped me a
lot while preparing this report. Lastly I cannot miss to those staffs of Radisson Blu Hotal,
who openly answered my question.
Prasanta Panta
Kathmandu, Nepal
Intake2018
Contents
CHAPTER 1.............................................................................................................................................1
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................1
Background....................................................................................................................................1
Statement of problems..................................................................................................................2
Research Objective........................................................................................................................2
Significance of the Study................................................................................................................2
Conceptual framework..................................................................................................................2
CHAPTER 2.............................................................................................................................................3
LITERATURE REVIEW..........................................................................................................................3
CHAPTER 3.............................................................................................................................................4
Research methodology......................................................................................................................4
Limitation of Study............................................................................................................................4
Ethical Consideration.........................................................................................................................5
Survey Questionnaires...................................................................................................................6
Time Plan...........................................................................................................................................7
Budget...............................................................................................................................................7
References.............................................................................................................................................8
 CHAPTER 1
Introduction
Background
Expo 2020 Dubai is the Universal Exhibition that will be held in the United Arab Emirates from 1
October 2021 to 31 March 2022. As main objective of Expo is to raise public awareness, to share
change, to encourage progress and to convey experiences in its own field. So, main purpose of Expo
2020 is “connecting minds, creating future”. Which is based on the belief that bringing the world
together can catalyse an exchange of new perspectives and inspire action to deliver real-life solutions
to real-world challenges.
For 170 years, World Expos have provided a platform to showcase the greatest innovations that have
shaped the world we live in today. Expo 2020 will continue that tradition with the latest technology
from around the globe. In the spirit of innovation and positive change for the future, Expo 2020 is a
global platform dedicated to bringing people, communities and nations together to build bridges,
enable action and inspire solutions toward some of the world’s most challenging issues. Expo 2020
represents the hope and belief in the power and impact of human innovation, imagination and
ingenuity.

This is the Expo first time held in Arab. The Expo 2020 is supposed to start from 1 st October 2020 but
due to COVID-19 it was postpone and started from 1st October 2021.
Following are the main activities in Expo 2020, Dubai UAE
13. Architecture
14. Arts and culture
15. Business and Entrepreneurship
16. Country pavilions and Exhibitions
17. Food and Beverage
18. Innovation and Technology
19. Live Events and Performance
20. Mobility
21. Opportunity
22. Retail and Merchandise
23. Sports, Fitness and Wellbeing
24. Sustainability
Expo 2020 is one of the biggest events in the world, which brings people from all over the world. And
people from the different nation, culture can experience world at single event site. As this place is
connected to world, it has definitely some positive and negative impact to the host country in ;
4. Society and culture
5. Business and economy
6. Environment

1
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek is first five star and international chain hotel in
historic Dubai. Which was opened in 1975.

Statement of problems
The main problem in research is COVID-19. As the event is exposition, and people should
visit event site and due to COVID-19 lots of country’s flight has been closed and lots of
hotels are closed which has affected to hospitality industry.

Research Objective
A research objective is a clear, concise, declarative statement, which provides direction to
investigate the variables. This research helps to know that,
5. To know the economic impact in the hospitality industry
6. To know the social and cultural impact in hospitality industry,
7. To know the environmental impact in hospitality industry.

Significance of the Study

The main significance of the study is that it will help for future references or guideline for
research. It will further enhance the knowledge on the subject mattered concerned. It will also
give some more information about the expo 2020, Dubai. The concerned authority get more
beneficial by this report. This report will also be useful to know the benefits and drawback of
big expo event like expo 2020 Dubai.

Conceptual framework
An exhibition, in the most general sense, is an organized presentation and display of a
selection of items. In practice, exhibitions usually occur within a cultural or educational
setting such as a museum, art gallery, park, library, exhibition hall, or World's fairs.
Exhibitions can include many things such as art in both major museums and smaller galleries,
interpretive exhibitions, natural history museums and history museums, and also varieties
such as more commercially focused exhibitions and trade fairs.

2
 CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
Due to the very recent nature of the announcement, there is almost no literature dealing
directly with the relationship between Dubai and the Expo 2020. However, there has been
considerable commentary in the form of political and economic punditry, much of which is
academic. Piers Schreiber, Vice President of Corporate Communications & Public Affairs at
the Jumeirah Group, claimed that ‘the Expo will create up to 270,000 jobs in the region,
bringing great economic and social benefits’ (cited in Wilson, 2013). Among these are an
injection of roughly €17.7 billion into the economy and a migration of talent from abroad
(Wilson, 2013). These estimations are supported by the forecasting group Oxford Economics,
which claims that the event will contribute nearly $40 billion to Dubai’s GDP and create
277,000 new jobs over the next seven years (Big News Network, 2013). A similar argument
is put forward by Rose and Spiegel (2009), whose work suggests that ‘mega events’ lead to a
substantial increase in trade (approx. 30%); however, they also show that ‘unsuccessful bids
to host the Olympics have a similar positive impact on exports…trade is attributable to the
signal a country sends when bidding to host the games, rather than the act of actually holding
a mega-event’ (p1).
Although Sheik Mohammed has claimed that the “Dubai Expo 2020 will breathe new life
into the ancient role of the Middle East as a melting pot for cultures and creativity” (Big
News Network, 2013), the goal of cultural diversity has been questioned due to the strong
emphasis on boosting an ‘Islamic economy’, which suggests continuity more than change
(Wilson, 2013).
Based on comparisons with other ‘mega events’, it is often argued that the effects of the Expo
2020 are likely to be negative for Dubai. Rose and Spiegel (2009), for example, stress that
much of the evidence for the benefits of mega events is commissioned by groups with biasing
agendas (e.g., Humphreys and Plummer, 1995; Fuller and Clinch, 2000, both cited in Rose
and Spiegel, 2009). The same is argued by Nitsch and Wendland (2013), who also point to
the large initial investment in facilities and infrastructure associated with mega events, which
can place a considerable burden on the local or national economy; there tends also to be a
dramatic and unpredictable effect on property prices. The conclusion of Nitsch and Wendland
(2013) is that mega events tend to have an overwhelmingly negative effect on population
growth (i.e., a population decline), as measured relative to a control group.
However, Nitsch and Wendland (2013), and Rose and Spiegel (2009), point to the difficulty
of estimating the impact of major events. Problems quantifying the effects, especially on
phenomena such as labor markets, are often exacerbated by the fact that many studies are
commissioned ex ante by biased groups. Moreover, in conducting analyses such as this, it is
difficult to find an adequate sample size due to the infrequency of mega events. Then there
are problems with the intangibility of cultural and social spillover effects, as well as the
economic multiplier (Rose and Spiegel, 2009).

3
 CHAPTER 3
Research methodology
Research Design: This research design investigates to know how Expo 2020 has impacted in
the hospitality industry of Dubai. And economy of whole country. Similarly, this study also
uses survey in order to collect information.
Research Site: To collect some data about expo, the researcher will use official site of Expo
and some online site. And for case study, researcher will do research in Radisson Blu Hotel,
Dubai, Deira Creek. The researcher finds this site suitable for study. The selected area is
easily accessible and reachable for the researcher.
Universe and sampling: To get the accurate data and finding research will take interview
with some staff who are working in event site itself. And to get business and revenue data,
researcher will take interview with some senior staffs of hotel.
Data collection method: The primary data will be collected through taking interview and
surveys and observation method. There will be some questions which will be asked to staffs
working in event site and some of senior staff of hotel. The question will be yes/no question.
And some descriptive questions. The secondary data will be collected through books,
journals, magazines and various websites.
Data analysis process: The obtained data will be analyzed and grouped under different
headings and sub-headings. The quantitative data will be pictured through charts, diagrams,
graphs for easy understanding.
Chapter organizations:
There will be four chapter in this thesis.
 Chapter 1 will include Introduction, Statement of problem and Literature Review.
 Chapter 2 includes Research objectives, significance, operational definition and limitations.
 Chapter 3 will include data presentation and analysis.
 Chapter 4 will cover summary, conclusion and references.

Limitation of Study
The limitation of study is that the researcher will be limited within ‘Expo 2020, Dubai and
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek’. As this event is very big it is little difficult to get

4
accurate data. Thus it may not provide actual data or information about their status and
strategies of long span of time.

Ethical Consideration
During the research of “Impact of Expo 2020, Dubai in hospitality industry of Dubai” may
come ethical issues shall be considered while preparing the thesis. The research will try best
to avoid the ethical sensitiveness. During the research, the researcher will not force to
anyone. Moreover, researcher will not collect fake and unethical data.

5
Survey Questionnaires
1. Why this event ‘Expo 2020’ is important for Radisson Blu, Dubai Deira Creek?
2. How many people got employments opportunity by Radisson Blu for ‘Expo 2020’?
3. What are the challenges that you faced as hospitality partner in this event?
4. What is the approximate revenue generated by this hotel from this event?
5. Was there any communication barrier or challenges due to national diversity?
6. How did you represent your organization in this event?
7. How COVID-19 affect in catering?
8. Why big events like ‘Expo 2020 ‘are important for hospitality industry?
9. What was the health safety and security provided to the guest and hotel staff during
this event?
10.

6
 Time Plan
Feb Mar Apr May
Proposal
submission
Proposal
approval
First draft
submission
Second
draft
submission
Final draft
submission

Budget
As this research is not going to involve many cost but it will be have some expenses during
the research. The budget of this research is mention below:
Items Quantity Price
A4 size paper 500 pic. Rs.500
Pen 3 pic. Rs.60
Print Rs.1,500
Binding Rs.250
Transportation Rs.5,000
Total Rs.7310

7
 References
https://www.google.com/search?
q=about+expo+2020&oq=ab&aqs=chrome.0.69i59j69i57j46i131i433i512j0i131i433j0i131i4
33i512j5l3.1776j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
https://writepass.com/journal/2017/02/the-impact-of-hosting-the-world-expo-2020-on-
dubais-future-economic-social-and-cultural-life/