A mobile game developed by three young Bahraini developers is now on display at the Bahrain Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, offering visitors an interactive introduction to the kingdom’s landmarks and economic potential.
The game, titled Ship of Time, was created by game director Shehab Abdulla, art director Elias Rahma and project manager Hasan Albarri, currently participating in a one-year training programme at Japanese video game studio NatsumeAtari.
“We’re incredibly grateful to NatsumeAtari for providing us with the tools and invaluable guidance that made it possible for us to take on this unique project so early in our game development journey,” Mr Albarri noted.
“We also sincerely appreciate both Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) and Tamkeen, for their continued support in empowering Bahraini youth in emerging industries.
“The team is excited to showcase this game on a global stage.”
The game invites players to explore a stylised version of Bahrain Bay by navigating a traditional dhow, offering a mix of historical and modern visuals.
Along the way, players discover information about Bahrain’s investment landscape and tourism potential.
It was designed as both an entertainment experience and an educational tool to showcase the country’s economic narrative on a global stage.
According to the EDB, which is overseeing the Bahrain Pavilion’ business exhibition, where the game is showcased, it ‘offers an immersive and educational experience that highlights the kingdom’s rich heritage of the past and ambitions and opportunities of the future.’
At its exhibition, the EDB is showcasing Bahrain’s numerous competitive advantages, including a strategic location at the heart of the Gulf, the region’s best value-operating costs, a highly skilled bilingual workforce and a competitive taxation system.
“Our collaboration with NatsumeAtari reflects Bahrain’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting emerging talent in the gaming industry,” EDB marketing and communications chief Mohammed Al Alawi added.
“Ship of Time is a creative showcase of the kingdom’s economic and tourism potential, blending rich history with future ambitions.
“We are proud to see young Bahraini developers play a key role in bringing this vision to life at Expo 2025 Osaka, highlighting Bahrain’s growing position as a hub for digital content.”
The Bahrain Pavilion has been organised by Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities.
Spanning four levels and offering a scenic view of the sea, the pavilion offers guests a comprehensive experience, introducing them to Bahrain.
Titled ‘Connecting Seas’, the pavilion is open to the public until October 13 under the theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’.
Designed by Paris-based Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh, the structure will be one of the most sustainable pavilions in the expo.
It is divided into five areas, each evoking one of the five senses and includes collaborations with Bahraini design company Shepherd Studio on the exhibition build and furniture, smell artist Sissel Tolaas on two smell libraries, and artist composer Hassan Hujairi with a special sound piece.
The pavilion reflects Bahrain’s deep-rooted historical connection to the sea and is inspired by the kingdom’s maritime heritage and Japanese woodworking traditions.
Expo 2025 Osaka is expected to attract more than 28 million visitors from around the world, with participation from approximately 150 countries.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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