Geneva, Switzerland – 10 November, 2019 - The World Expo will be held next winter in Dubai and guests on board MSC Cruises’ two ships deployed in the Gulf, MSC Lirica and MSC Seaview, will be able to discover the World’s Greatest Show. With up to 25 million visits expected from all over the globe, Expo 2020 Dubai is undoubtedly the largest event ever staged in the Middle East, Africa and South East Asia. “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future” is the main theme of the event and the expression of how innovation and progress are achieved when people and ideas come together in unique ways.

One hundred and ninety two countries will participate in Expo 2020 and will experience the warmth and hospitality of the Emirates. The event will offer pavilions for travels around the globe, for indulging in new gastronomic experiences and witnessing live events. Whether a fun seeker, an architecture lover or a foodie, Expo is for anyone.

MSC Lirica will homeport in Dubai for winter 2020 with 7-night cruises that depart every Sunday calling Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital city, the stunning Sir Bani Yas Island beach oasis off the capital’s coast and Muscat in Oman before returning to Dubai.

The cost of public admission to Expo 2020 will be included in the cost of the cruise ticket for guests booked on MSC Lirica. They will also benefit from complimentary ground transportation available from the port in Dubai to Expo 2020 and back, plus a ‘smart queue’ voucher to shortcut lines at up to three national pavilions. The visit ashore allows guests plenty of time at Expo 2020 to discover all that the world’s greatest show has to offer.

MSC Seaview will also be deployed in the Gulf for winter 2020, and guests will be able to purchase official Expo 2020 packages of entry ticket and ground transportation in advance, as well as on board. The ship will call Dubai on Saturdays and then Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Bahrain and Doha before a return to Dubai where guests can visit the Expo on Fridays.