expo-closing-dubai-2022-al-wasl-dome-projection-mapping

As Expo 2020 Dubai drew to a close, the grand finale unfolded beneath the iconic Al Wasl Dome, combining spectacular lighting, water effects and live performance in one of the world's most watched ceremonies.


Working in collaboration with Aquatique, Evolution Technical and Evolution Scenic were appointed to design, engineer and integrate a bespoke LED lighting system for the suspended Expo Ring - a signature scenic element that combined custom fabricated synchronized lighting with choreographed water effects.


In addition to the Expo Ring, Evolution delivered several custom-fabricated show props, including an automated Oud burner and an illuminated spacesuit, adding further theatrical moments to the ceremony.

The Challenge


The production required multiple bespoke technical solutions that combined scenic fabrication, electronics, automation and show integration within a live broadcast environment.


The suspended Expo Ring needed to operate reliably above the performance area while remaining lightweight, waterproof and fully controllable through wireless DMX. Every lighting effect had to synchronise with the surrounding water choreography and live production.


Alongside the main installation, custom scenic props required integrated lighting, smoke effects and reliable control systems while remaining practical for performers during the live show.

The Solution


Working alongside Aquatique Show, Evolution Scenic + Evolution Technical designed and fabricated a modular Expo Ring consisting of ten individual segments, each engineered with integrated LED panels positioned above and below the structure. Four different-sized RGBW LED rings were incorporated into the design, creating layered lighting effects that complemented the surrounding fountain choreography.


The complete system operated using wireless DMX control powered by high-capacity 24V battery systems, eliminating the need for visible cabling while maintaining complete lighting flexibility. Each segment incorporated a bespoke control box containing DMX-controllable LED decoders, with RDM technology providing real-time fixture verification and reliable system monitoring.


To ensure durability within the water environment, flexible silicone LED profiles protected the lighting elements from moisture, while custom 24-pin military-grade connectors enabled rapid assembly and dependable transmission of power and DMX data. Structural integrity was maintained using engineered hook clamps and secondary safety systems throughout the suspended installation.


Evolution  also designed and fabricated a series of bespoke performance props for the ceremony. A custom automated Oud burner incorporated a compact handheld micro-fogger controlled via a bespoke electronic circuit, delivering programmable smoke effects at predetermined intervals. Internal steel scrubbers were integrated to prolong smoke retention and enhance the visual effect, while RGB status indicators provided simple operational feedback.


An illuminated performance spacesuit was also produced, incorporating integrated LED strips and an onboard power supply to create dynamic lighting effects during the live performance.


Together, these custom scenic and technical elements formed an integral part of the closing ceremony's visual storytelling, combining engineering, automation and fabrication into one seamless production.

Delivery Highlights 


  • Custom LED integration for the Expo Ring
  • Bespoke scenic fabrication
  • Wireless DMX lighting control
  • Modular ten-segment suspended LED structure
  • RGBW LED ring system
  • 24V battery-powered lighting system
  • Custom electronic control systems
  • RDM fixture monitoring
  • Military-grade connector integration
  • Waterproof LED protection system
  • Automated Oud burner with programmable smoke effects
  • Custom LED performance spacesuit
  • Technical engineering, fabrication and commissioning
expo-closing-dubai-2022-golden-ring-water-curtain-stage

Outcome


The completed Expo Ring became one of the defining visual features of the Expo 2020 Dubai Closing Ceremony, seamlessly integrating synchronised LED lighting with the spectacular water show beneath Al Wasl Dome.


The bespoke scenic props—including the automated Oud burner and illuminated spacesuit—added further theatrical impact, demonstrating Evolution's ability to merge engineering, automation and creative fabrication into technically sophisticated live event solutions.


By combining custom electronics, scenic fabrication and specialist show technology, Evolution Technical and Evolution Scenic delivered innovative production elements that contributed to one of the world's most significant live event ceremonies.

Project Ecosystem


Client:

Five Currents LLC


Venue

Al Wasl Dome, Expo 2020 Dubai

Dubai, UAE


Evolution Technical:

LED Systems • Show Control • Wireless DMX • Electronics Engineering • Automation • Technical Integration • Installation & Commissioning


Evolution Scenic:

Giant Gold Ring Fabrication • Integrated Rain Curtain Structure • Water Tank Integration • Gold Finish • Aerial Scenic Installation • Structural Testing • Al Wasl Dome Rigging Coordination