Further strengthening its footprint in the tech arena, Expo 2020 Dubai has partnered with China-based Terminus Technologies that specialises in smart technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics.
The company has been named Expo 2020 Dubai’s official robotics partner and has signed a long-term lease at District 2020 (a smart city that is the future of Expo) as part of the innovation ecosystem that will evolve after Expo 2020.
The firm will deploy more than 150 state-of-the-art robots at the venue. These robots will include Opti, one of the Expo 2020’s mascots.
The robots are fitted with features such as multi-touch displays, 5G network capability AI-driven object mapping and object detection. Opti will carry out duties as Expo 2020’s site-wide goodwill ambassador, including greeting visitors, performing in special displays and providing assistance, as well as helping with F&B delivery and hospitality services.
Terminus Technologies will set up an R&D centre and its first headquarters outside of China at District 2020 and will repurpose more than 80 per cent of the site’s-built environment and support industry and technology growth in the UAE as it advances towards an innovation-driven economy.
Mohammed AlHashmi, chief technology officer, Expo 2020 Dubai said, “Expo 2020 will be an unparalleled platform to showcase the capabilities of innovative technology and, as a pioneer in robotics and AI-enabled IoT (Internet of Things) applications, Terminus is a valuable new partner. Our collaboration will demonstrate the potential of robotics, while also establishing the foundation for District 2020 as a centre for technology innovation.”
Adding to this, Victor Ai, founder and chief executive officer, Terminus Technologies said “Expo 2020 Dubai will serve as an incredible hub of innovation for the world and District 2020 will act as an example for global smart city development. Terminus is working with both to redefine the concept of future cities with our leading AI and IoT technology. Together with other technology-focused partners, we have the opportunity to further explore the area of smart spaces.”
The first World Expo to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, Expo 2020 Dubai has been postponed by a year due to the pandemic crisis. It will now run from October 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022.
