Switzerland to showcase innovation and excellence at Expo 2030 in Saudi Arabia
Bern, 23.04.2026 — On 15 April, the Federal Council reached a decision to participate in Expo 2030 Riyadh – an opportunity to promote Swiss interests and raise the country’s profile on the global stage. The Swiss pavilion will position the country as a trustworthy and high-performing partner in business, innovation and global governance. The Federal Council has tasked the FDFA with submitting a dispatch to Parliament in the first quarter of 2027, seeking approval for the necessary commitment appropriation. During his visit to Saudi Arabia on 23 April 2026, President Guy Parmelin officially informed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Federal Council’s decision.
At its meeting on 15 April 2026, the Federal Council confirmed that Switzerland will participate in Expo 2030 Riyadh, which will be held from 31 October 2030 to 31 March 2031 under the motto ‘Foresight for Tomorrow’. The organisers expect the event to draw 197 participating countries and 42 million visitors. The host nation, Saudi Arabia, is the only G20 member in the Arab world. Saudi Arabia is a significant regional power with influence that extends well beyond its borders, playing a central role in many global issues that also impact Switzerland. The two countries enjoy good relations across a range of sectors, with numerous Swiss firms active in Saudi Arabia’s expanding market.
Expo 2030 provides Switzerland with a platform to raise its profile and address important issues among key audiences, deepen existing ties and identify avenues for increased cooperation. As the global environment grows more competitive and pressures on the Swiss economy intensify, events of this kind are taking on renewed strategic importance. The Swiss pavilion at Expo 2030 will highlight three topics: Swiss excellence and trustworthiness in all economic sectors, Switzerland as a hub for innovation, and Switzerland’s role in facilitating dialogue between global actors.
The total costs for Switzerland’s participation in Expo 2030 amount to CHF 15.4 million. With federal finances under pressure, the Federal Council is recommending to Parliament that Switzerland rent space at the venue rather than constructing its own dedicated pavilion. Of the total budget, CHF 2 million is expected to be covered through sponsorship. The Federal Council will issue to Parliament a federal decree and full dispatch next year detailing Switzerland’s participation in Expo 2030. In keeping with standard Swiss practice for world expos, a monitoring mechanism will be put in place to keep potential risks to a minimum.