Prince William to visit Dubai Expo 2020

Prince William, second in line to the British throne, visited the United Arab Emirates from Kensington Palace on Thursday, marking the Duke of Cambridge’s first official visit, Kensington Palace said.

Organized at the request of the British Foreign Ministry, the visit aims to deepen trade ties with the wealthy Gulf Arab countries as part of their post-Brexit strategy.

The prince said on Twitter that he looked forward to the trip to discuss creating a more sustainable world.

The Duke of Cambridge’s visit coincides with the UK’s national day at Expo 2020, the world’s fair taking place in Dubai.

Prince William will visit the British Pavilion, where he will visit the $7 billion exhibit and discuss the importance of conservation efforts with young Emirati, management and conservationists.

Launched by Prince William and The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in late 2020, The Earthshot Prize held its first-ever award ceremony late last year, offering five, 1 million-pound prizes to innovators, entrepreneurs and scientists seeking solutions to the world’s greatest environmental problems. 

The award is being funded for 10 years, totaling 50 prizes.

This year’s award ceremony will be held in the United States. Last year’s finalists will showcase their innovative solutions to an audience at Expo’s DP World pavilion following a speech by Prince William.

William visited ports giant DP World’s Jebel Ali Port as well to highlight his United for Wildlife campaign against the illegal wildlife trade.

While the British monarchy has few practical powers and is expected to be non-partisan, it gives Britain a degree of “soft” power in global, diplomatic relations.

Prince Charles, William’s father and first in line to the throne, has visited the Gulf many times and developed strong links with the region.