The glories of Palestine are being highlighted at Expo 2020 Dubai on Friday, as its country day is celebrated.
This provides an opportunity for visitors to savour Palestine's rich culture.
A ceremony to mark the day was held under Al Wasl Dome on Friday morning, with a performance by the Asayel folk band, followed a speech by Najeeb Al Ali, executive director of the Expo 2020 Bureau and Palestine’s Minister of Economy, Khaled Al Osaili.
“We have great hopes that the profound UAE-Palestinian ties continue to develop to include diverse areas,” said Mr Al Ali.
He said the unique design of Palestine’s pavilion offers a splendid representation of the country’s everlasting and rich heritage, and takes visitors on a journey through time.
“It is beautiful facade displaying the country’s most acclaimed destinations such as the Al Aqsa mosque – Islam’s third most sacred site – and the Church of the Nativity [in Bethlehem] reflecting the unity of its people.
“It also shows the developments in education, technology, creativity, art and culture and the business opportunities across Palestine’s different sectors.”
Mr Al Osaili thanked Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, for his support.
“The support that manifested through [Sheikh Mohammed's] visit to the Palestine pavilion and his tweet ‘when Palestine is present, beauty is present and history writes its presence' reflects strong Emirati-Palestinian relations,” Mr Al Osaili said.
Celebrations will conclude with a special concert on the Jubilee Stage, from 7pm to 9pm.
Expo visitors will also be encouraged to visit the Palestine pavilion at the world's fair, where the sights, smells and sounds of Jerusalem are showcased.
It aims to recreate the feel of the Old City, with its narrow alleyways and decorative arches. Stone slabs imported from the city complete the effect.
Pictures recreate the atmosphere of bustling bazaars where Palestinians trade textiles and souvenirs and where the many bakeries sell the popular local bread.