For 93 days in May 2027, Belgrade will be at the center of global attention. Specialized Expo 2027, to be held under the slogan “Play for Humanity – Sport and Music for All,” will bring together representatives from more than 137 countries and attract over four million visitors from around the world. It will be the first event of its kind in the history of the Western Balkans and, without doubt, the most significant international event in modern Serbian history.
Although part of the public sees Expo mainly as a large exhibition with pavilions and cultural programs, a closer analysis shows that it is a strategic investment with the potential to accelerate economic development, improve infrastructure, boost tourism, and reshape Serbia’s international image in the long term. The experience of previous world expos shows that such events are not merely an expense. They act as strong drivers of employment, economic growth, urban development, and the creation of a lasting legacy whose effects continue for decades after the exhibition ends.
Leap into the Future – Serbia 2027
According to official data from the organizers, the direct cost of building the Expo complex in Surčin is around €1.29 billion. By comparison, the broader “Leap into the Future – Serbia 2027” program includes €17.8 billion for 323 capital projects across Serbia, and this amount is not solely the cost of Expo itself. These funds are intended for the construction of a modern exhibition space that will not be dismantled after August 2027, but permanently transformed into a modern congress and trade-fair center, one of the most advanced in this part of Europe. 
In addition, the project includes major investments in supporting infrastructure: new roads, improved public transport, increased hotel capacity, and the development of an entirely new urban area. As the organizers emphasize, Serbia is not investing only in temporary exhibition facilities, but in the road network that will connect them, in new city districts, in the quality of life of its citizens, and in strengthening the country’s position in the global market.
This approach is also supported by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), the highest authority in this field. Its Secretary General, Dimitri Kerkentzes, has repeatedly emphasized that Expo represents “a global investment, not just an investment by the host country.” In his words, the money invested returns through tourism growth, indirect tax revenues, and increased spending by participants and visitors. “The investment you are making returns through tourism, indirect tax revenues, and the spending of participants and visitors. So Expo is not only a cost for the host country, but an investment by the whole world,” Kerkentzes said.
The economic potential is already visible
The economic effects of Expo 2027 will be multilayered. During the 93 days of the exhibition itself, a significant increase in visitor spending is expected in hospitality, transport, retail, as well as in cultural and creative industries. Estimates show that the direct and indirect economic impact during that period could exceed €1.1 billion, while some analysts point to even broader effects that could reach several billion euros once multiplier effects across the entire economy are taken into account.
Preparatory activities for Expo are already generating thousands of jobs in construction, the building materials industry, logistics, and related services. Once the exhibition begins, that number will rise further through engagement in hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, transport, and event organization. Particularly important is the fact that opportunities will also open up for small companies and entrepreneurs across Serbia – from Vojvodina and western Serbia to the south of the country.
International media have already highlighted this potential. Gulf News describes Expo 2027 as “a strong economic driver for the Western Balkans.” According to its analysis, the event will accelerate infrastructure development, attract foreign investment, and provide a powerful boost to tourism. “This is not just an exhibition – it is an investment in the future, in new infrastructure, business links, and the international image of the region,” the article states.
A “legacy” that remains for the long term
One of the key advantages of Expo 2027 in Belgrade is the concept of “100% legacy.” Unlike some earlier exhibitions, where a large number of facilities were temporary, the structures here are planned to remain in use after the event ends. In Surčin, a new modern urban neighborhood will be created, with a contemporary exhibition and congress center, an innovation hub, cultural and museum facilities, new schools and kindergartens, sports venues, and around 1,500 residential units.
That part of Belgrade will not remain merely the site of a former exhibition, but will become a functional urban whole with residents, business facilities, and areas for leisure and recreation. At the same time, improvements in transport and utility infrastructure, including new roads, expanded airport capacity, and improved public transport, will remain in permanent use for citizens and visitors.
The experience of previous expos, such as Expo 2010 in Shanghai, Expo 2015 in Milan, and Expo 2017 in Astana, shows the importance of well-designed legacy planning. Cities that successfully used this potential recorded long-term growth in real-estate values, increased tourist traffic, and stronger regional economies. Belgrade now has the opportunity to continue along that path and set a new standard.
International interest and global reach
The 137 countries that have so far confirmed or announced participation show that Expo 2027 has already surpassed the records of previous specialized expos. This figure significantly exceeds the results of events such as Astana 2017 and clearly points to the world’s strong interest in Belgrade.
The global significance of the event is also confirmed by the selection of world ambassadors. Jackie Chan, the world-famous actor and martial artist, is one of Expo’s brand ambassadors. According to Euronews, his involvement sends the message that “East and West are not opposed, but directed toward a shared future.” His global recognition will help spread Expo’s message – connecting people through sport and music on a worldwide level.
BIE and participants from different countries see Expo 2027 in Belgrade as an opportunity to show how sport and music can connect nations, while simultaneously encouraging innovation, economic cooperation, and sustainable development.
An opportunity that should not be missed
Expo 2027 in Belgrade is not an event limited to three months. It is a catalyst that can accelerate economic growth, attract new investments, and strengthen Serbia’s international position in the long term.
Through the opening of new jobs, increased spending, the development of new industries, and the creation of a modern urban space, Serbia has a unique opportunity to make a major leap into the future. As organizers and international partners emphasize, this is an investment in quality of life and long-term development. Expo 2027 in Belgrade has the potential to become a place of meeting, cooperation, and creation – and Serbia has the opportunity to use that chance in the best possible way.
