EXPO2020 Dubai Operational Readiness
As the largest international event ever staged in the Arab world, with around 300,000 meals served daily, Expo 2020 faced significant challenges. Organizers needed to recruit and manage a vast workforce, address security concerns, manage and track entry and exit from the site, and establish transport links connecting the subway, bus systems, and major freeways directly into the site. Defining and adequately testing communication channels for staff was also crucial. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated preparations, delaying the event by a year and necessitating an overhaul of the entire business strategy.
Ikosaeder's international team of experts reviewed existing services, analyzed functional operating plans, and strategically advised Expo 2020 on Operational Readiness and program design. We developed a readiness program implementation approach that included operational walkthroughs and simulations, ensuring seamless integration with client teams to form a unified readiness delivery team. From a Communication Command Control (C3) perspective, we supported the development of an Expo-wide C3 Governance framework. Our simulation methodology facilitated integration processes with stakeholders and delivery partners, including Dubai Police and Transport authorities, and we designed and delivered C3 stress testing simulations. Additionally, we focused on people capability development by forming an ad-hoc readiness team of 12 international experts, coaching client teams on readiness planning and delivery, and training the Parc Operation Centre management team on routine issue response.
