ABSTRACT
Expo is a mega-event defined as “a global event dedicated to finding solutions to fundamental challenges facing humanity by offering a journey inside a chosen theme through engaging and immersive activities” (BIE, 2015). Mega-events have considerable significance in terms of the exchange, transfer and diffusion of information, values and technologies. The infrastructure development and elevation represent the core for hosting such events. The expectation is that hosting an event such as Expo 2020 will promote the economic competitiveness of Dubai and will be a showcase for place marketing. A group of researchers have argued that mega-events share the same features of the reparative nature with an international exposure that can offer fascinating spectacles for a specific period, enhance the globalised built environment, and give the hosting city privilege and legacy (Hiller, 2000; Ritchie, 1984; Roche, 2000). Getz (1997) defined the mega-event as a planned occurrence of limited duration that has a long-term impact on the host area by increasing the tourist volume, the publicity and international exposure, infrastructure development and the organisational development, which in turn increase the destination's capacity and attractiveness. O'Reilly et al. (2008) have characterised mega-events as “global properties.”
