German architecture studio LAVA has unveiled its comprehensive masterplan for the 2030 World Expo, which will be located on a site near King Salman International Airport north of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The ambitious design represents the latest World Expo following Expo 2025 Osaka, currently taking place in Japan.
The masterplan features a distinctive design characterized by organic-shaped, rock-like buildings that draw inspiration from Saudi Arabia's natural rivers and wadis (dry riverbeds). The layout is strategically arranged around a central river system, with the entire complex organized into five petal-like groupings that are interconnected by bridges, creating a cohesive yet diverse architectural landscape.
"We have anchored the design firmly in nature," explained Chris Bosse, co-founder of LAVA. "The master plan exemplifies how nature and technology, environmental restoration and urban innovation can effectively coexist." This philosophy is evident throughout the design, which seamlessly blends natural forms with cutting-edge architectural innovation.
The masterplan serves a dual purpose beyond hosting the global exposition. According to LAVA, the site is intentionally designed to transform into a future retail and leisure district for Riyadh after the expo concludes. The location offers strategic advantages, situated on a site enclosed by major roadways near the airport and positioned alongside other significant architectural projects, including the Zaha Hadid Architects-designed King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre and the King Salman Stadium designed by Populous, which is currently under construction in preparation for the 2030 World Cup.
Riyadh Expo 2030 is scheduled to run from October 1, 2030, through March 31, 2031, and will be curated under the theme "The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow." This exposition represents one of several major international events planned for Saudi Arabia in the coming years, as the kingdom positions itself as a global destination for significant cultural and sporting events.
The expo is part of a broader vision for Saudi Arabia's international presence, coinciding with the country's hosting of the 2030 World Cup and the Asian Winter Games, which will take place at the Trojena ski resort. Notably, LAVA is also involved in masterplanning Trojena, which forms part of the expansive Neom mega project, where the studio is additionally designing an innovative "upside-down skyscraper" on the Gulf of Aqaba, demonstrating the firm's ongoing commitment to groundbreaking architectural solutions in the region.
