Expo 2027: Serbia’s global stage for innovation, culture
“The theme of EXPO 2027 emphasizes the universal power of sport and music to unite people, promote inclusion, and inspire progress; all of which are values that Serbia proudly supports and seeks to share with the rest of the world.”
In a recent interview with The Times Kuwait, Filip Katić, the head of mission at the Serbian Embassy in Kuwait, said that the Expo represented a historic moment for the Republic of Serbia. EXPO 2027, recognized as a Specialized Exposition by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), will be the first time such an event is held in Southeast Europe, and only the second time in the history of the BIE that a Specialized Expo is hosted by a country in this region.
THE TIMES KUWAIT REPORT
In 2027, the world will turn its eyes to Belgrade, Serbia, as it hosts Expo 2027. To be held under the theme of ‘Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for All’, the event aims to celebrate the power of play, creativity, and human connections, through sports and music.
In a recent interview with The Times Kuwait, Filip Katić, the head of mission at the Serbian Embassy in Kuwait, said that the Expo represented a historic moment for the Republic of Serbia. EXPO 2027, recognized as a Specialized Exposition by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), will be the first time such an event is held in Southeast Europe, and only the second time in the history of the BIE that a Specialized Expo is hosted by a country in this region.
Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), known in English as the International Exhibitions Bureau, is the intergovernmental organization created in 1928 in Paris, France to supervise international exhibitions, under the Convention Relating to International Exhibitions (1928 Paris Convention).
Under the original protocol of the 1928 Paris Convention, and its latest amendment ratified in 1996, the BIE recognised two types of Expos—International Registered Exhibitions (commonly referred to as World Expos), and International Recognised Exhibitions (commonly referred to as Specialised Expos). The next World Expo will run from 13 April to 13 October 2025 in Osaka, Japan, while the next Specialized Expo is slated to take place in Surčin, Serbia from 15 May to 15 August in 2027.
The BIE selected Belgrade as the host city in June 2023, during its 172nd General Assembly, as it surpassed proposals from other cities, including Bloomington in the United States, Phuket in Thailand, Málaga in Spain, and San Carlos de Bariloche in Argentina.
Elaborating on the exhibition Mr. Katic noted “The theme of EXPO 2027 emphasizes the universal power of sport and music to unite people, promote inclusion, and inspire progress; all of which are values that Serbia proudly supports and seeks to share with the rest of the world.”
Noting that the event will bring together nations, businesses, and innovators to showcase advancements in technology, culture, and sustainability, Mr. Katic added that the three-month long expo is expected to attract millions of visitors, and witness the participation of more than 120 countries. “With 87 nations having already officially confirmed their participation, the high level of engagement reflects the strong global interest and trust in Serbia’s organizational capabilities,” said the Serbian diplomat.
Highlighting the extensive infrastructure work being undertaken by the government of Serbia ahead of the expo, Mr. Katic disclosed, “In preparation for EXPO 2027, Serbia is undertaking extensive infrastructure projects, including the construction of a modern, multifunctional exhibition space, with national pavilions, conference and exhibition halls, cultural venues, and public spaces spread over a 100-hectare area.
“A new national stadium is being built in close proximity to the site, along with a modern residential complex with over 1,500 residential units, which will initially serve as the EXPO Village and later be converted into sustainable housing. Significant investments are also being made in transportation, including new road connections, railway infrastructure, and the expansion of Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport to accommodate the anticipated rise in international arrivals.”
Emphasizing the cultural aspect of the exhibition, the Serbian diplomats said “Expo 2027 is set to be a melting pot of cultures, where nations come together to showcase their traditions, music, dance, and artistic expressions. Serbia, with its rich Balkan heritage, will contribute to this global festival of ideas by blending local customs with international creativity.
“Visitors can expect cultural pavilions, interactive exhibits, and live performances that celebrate the diversity of human expression. Imagine a world stage where Japanese Taiko drumming meets Brazilian Samba, where Uzbek embroidery is displayed alongside Norwegian folk art—all in one place.
“One of the most exciting aspects of the Expo will be the fusion of sports and music, allowing nations to demonstrate how cultural traditions shape athleticism and artistic movements. Whether it’s the Serbian Kolo dance, the Argentinian Tango, or the Turkish Whirling Dervishes, this Expo will be a spectacle of unity and exchange.
Expanding on the economic benefits that the expo will bring to the Serbian economy, Mr. Katic said, “Expo 2027 is expected to bring significant economic benefits, with projections estimating €6 billion in revenue from tourism, business deals, and investments. The government has emphasized that the event will boost the economy, with investments in infrastructure, tourism, and urban development aimed at transforming the area into a modern hub for international collaboration.
“With millions of international and domestic visitors predicted to arrive, the event will further boost sectors like hospitality, infrastructure, transport, retail, and services. Additionally hosting the Expo will place Serbia in the global spotlight, attracting foreign direct investments (FDI) and increasing international trade opportunities. The construction of new infrastructure, including state-of-the-art pavilions, exhibition spaces, and transport upgrades, will also lead to the creation of thousands of jobs and stimulate local businesses.
While short-term gains such as increased visitor numbers and infrastructure investments are clear, experts suggest that long-term benefits depend on Serbia’s ability to capitalize on the event’s momentum. Some past Expo host cities have seen sustained economic growth, while others have struggled to maintain positive impacts. They opined that Serbia will need to focus on export growth, foreign investments, and long-term utilization of Expo-built infrastructure to ensure lasting success.
Expo 2027 is predicted to become a key marketplace for global trade and investment, presenting a golden opportunity for businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs, both locally and globally to expand their networks, showcase innovations, and secure international partnerships.
“International businesses attending Expo 2027 can also explore market expansion opportunities in Southeastern Europe, with Serbia’s strategic location and rapid economic development making it an attractive gateway to both European and Balkan markets.
Following discussions with the concerned officials in Kuwait, Mr. Katić expressed his sincere hope that Kuwait will join the community of nations participating in EXPO 2027. He added, “Serbia would be truly honored to host Kuwait and showcase its unique cultural, technological, and economic contributions at this global event. We look forward to receiving a response from the Kuwaiti side this month and remain optimistic about their participation.”
He concluded by noting that EXPO 2027 will not only position Serbia as a hub of innovation, cooperation, and cultural dialogue but also contribute to long-term economic growth, tourism development, and international visibility of the country. Serbia is committed to making this event inclusive, impactful, and representative of a shared global vision for a better future, said Mr. Katić.
