BAHRAIN’S fourth international presence at the World Expo, opening in Japan later this month, will highlight its connection to the sea, as well as local talent on a global stage.
Expo 2025 will be held in the Japanese city of Osaka from April 13 to October 13, with Bahrain’s national pavilion being set up under the theme ‘Connecting Seas’.
“Participating in the expo for the fourth consecutive time provides us with a vital global stage to showcase our nation’s cultural achievements and solidify Bahrain’s position as a leading hub of innovation, culture and a dynamic, advanced economy,” said Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) president and the Bahrain Pavilion’s commissioner general at Expo 2025 Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa.
“Through our vision, we aim to present a comprehensive portrayal of Bahrain’s rich heritage, storied past, present accomplishments and future ambitions.
“By celebrating our maritime legacy, which lies at the very heart of our civilisation, we send a clear message: While rooted in a vibrant cultural history and strong values, we actively embrace innovation and sustainability as the cornerstones of a better future.”
Within the pavilion, a café helmed by award-winning Bahraini chef and UN Ambassador for Gastronomy Tourism Tala Bashmi will offer a curated menu that fuses authentic Bahraini flavours with innovative Japanese touches.
Enhancing the experience, a gift shop will showcase innovative products inspired by local heritage.
In addition, Bahraini fashion designer Lulwa Al Amin has created bespoke uniforms for the pavilion’s volunteers and staff, reflecting Bahrain’s cultural identity and innovative spirit.
Construction is ongoing for the kingdom’s pavilion, with a focus on making it one of the most sustainable displays in the expo.
It will be made of wood, blending ‘Bahraini craftsmanship and Japanese woodworking traditions’, according to pavilion deputy commissioner general Noura Al Sayeh-Holtrop.
“The pavilion is constructed out of wood, embodying the kingdom’s vision of promoting sustainability and taking advantage of its proximity to the sea for natural cooling and ventilation, which minimises the need for mechanical cooling systems,” a Baca spokesperson added, in a statement.
“After the conclusion of the expo, all components are planned to be recycled.”
The pavilion blends modernity with heritage, narrating Bahrain’s enduring connection with the sea from the Dilmun civilisation to the present day.
Located in the ‘Empowering Lives’ district of the expo, the kingdom’s pavilion has been designed by the Paris-based Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh.
“The Bahrain Pavilion embodies sustainability, cultural exchange, and craftsmanship,” Ms Ghotmeh added.
“Rising from around 3,000 pieces of unengineered wood using intricate joinery, it minimises waste and requires no additional materials.
“Its open, dhow-like form narrates stories of travel and interconnectedness while minimal foundations avoid concrete bedding and ensures nearly all materials are reusable.
“Passive cooling through natural ventilation reduces energy use, making the pavilion a testament to innovation and sustainable design.”
The pavilion covers 995 square metres with a total height of 13.7m across four levels, offering a scenic view of the sea.
The pavilion 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.
It also extends into a dedicated floor outlining Bahrain’s future goals, curated by the kingdom’s Economic Development Board, highlighting its strategic location and global standing as an open and investment-friendly environment.
Expo 2025 Osaka will take place in the Kansai region of Japan under the theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’.
It features three sub-themes: ‘Saving Lives’, ‘Empowering Lives’, and ‘Connecting Lives’.
More than 28 million visitors are expected to visit Expo 2025, exploring contributions from approximately 150 countries.
The expo will feature various events, providing opportunities for people to connect and exchange knowledge for the betterment of humanity.
Each pavilion will also have the opportunity to designate a national day during the expo to celebrate its culture and values.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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