Expo 2020 Dubai is an unrivalled opportunity for Accor to showcase its commitment to innovation, to inspire visitors and exhibitors with new ideas, and to shine a spotlight on its vision of Augmented Hospitality, which springs to life more than anywhere else in the ecosystem surrounding its loyalty program, ALL. The Group has partnered with the France Pavilion and will be showcasing what it means by a more sustainable and positive hospitality, and welcoming new practices and opportunities to provide meaningful, purposeful experiences for its guests, partners and team members.

The Expo was initially scheduled in 2020 but postponed to 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The ripple effects from the health crisis have given the Expo’s theme—Connecting minds, creating the future—more importance than ever. And this large gathering also sends a positive signal of confidence in the rebound and the optimism coming into view on the other side. Over the next 6 months, the 190 countries at Expo 2020 will be featuring their breakthroughs through one-of-a-kind cultural experiences that resonate with the event’s 3 central topics: Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity. Some 25 million visitors are expected to come along to explore the 200-plus exhibitors’ stands (representing countries, NGOs, businesses, etc.). At this first World Expo in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, the Group will also draw attention to its attachment to the region in general and Dubai in particular, where it is the leading operator in its field with more than 50 hotels and more than 120 restaurants and bars across the city.

A highly awaited France Pavilion

Accor is proud to be at The France Pavilion, which will revolve around the theme ‘Light, Enlightenment’, encapsulate the country’s vision for the world, champion renewable energies and underscore the key role that philosophers played in the Age of Enlightenment in the 18th century. The pavilion is a fantastic amplifier for France’s voice on cultural, scientific and industrial issues. It will have 2 world-famous ambassadors—pastry chef Jessica Préalpato and ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet—and its futuristic architecture includes photovoltaic tiles and gardens. The France Pavilion is expected to be one of the three most visited, and you will be able to take a virtual tour here.

“The France Pavilion is an extraordinary opportunity to demonstrate Accor’s expertise in the hospitality universe and to promote our avantgarde ALL loyalty lifestyle platform to millions of visitors.” Mark Willis, CEO India, Middle East, Africa & Turkey.

At the pavilion, the Group is providing an immersive experience into ALL, reimagining the future of travel, with a maze of curving screens and mirrors spanning 4 areas: “Take off for the break of your dreams”, “The ultimate restaurant experience”, “Hospitality nestled in nature” and “The place to be”. Its urban and natural settings, conceptual chalet, luxury suites and everything in-between will treat visitors to a multisensorial experience packed with surprises and a distinctly local flavor. A perfect example of the limitless experiences that the lifestyle loyalty program offers to its members on a daily basis.

Accor’s expertise and know-how will also shine bright in the Belvédère floor—the business area and a restaurant on a terrace overlooking the exhibition—where the team from Sofitel Dubai Downtown will provide catering services for VIPs and pavilion partners.

During the 6-month-long Expo, Accor will be holding various VIP events including a Sofitel La Nuit party and a culinary experience inspired by French fine dining with chef Yannick Alleno. The France Pavilion will also host several events, including a special program on October 2nd for France Day, to feature the country’s vibrant variety of performing arts and street arts.

Experience the ALL – Accor Live Limitless Universe at The France Pavilion from October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022.