Bahrain officially launched its national pavilion, ‘Connecting Seas’, at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, marking the kingdom’s fourth participation in the event.
Held in the Kansai region of Japan, this year’s edition runs until October 13, under the theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives’.
Designed by Paris-based Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh, it draws inspiration from traditional Bahraini boats and boat building techniques.
It was inaugurated by Southern Governor Shaikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Khalifa, in the presence of Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) president and Bahrain Pavilion commissioner general Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and Bahrain’s Ambassador to Japan Ahmed Al Doseri, as well as a number of senior officials, ambassadors and commissioners general from Gulf and international countries.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed stated that the pavilion provides visitors with a unique glimpse into Bahraini identity and is deeply rooted maritime heritage, highlighting the kingdom’s continued commitment to sharing its culture with the world.
“This fourth appearance at a world expo stems from our profound commitment to cultural openness and global dialogue,” he said.
“This is guided by the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Hamad, and the forward-looking policies of the government, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, who continue to place Bahraini culture and its people at the heart of national development.”
Experience
From its design to the experience it offers, Baca has worked to ensure that every aspect of its participation reflects Bahraini identity from the initial concept to the visitor journey.
“The success of this pavilion enhances international understanding of Bahrain’s capabilities while also sending a strong message that Bahrain is ready to face global challenges and contribute to shaping a better future for all.”
Sustainable Development Minister and Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) chief executive Noor Al Khulaif said that the expo is also a unique opportunity to showcase the kingdom’s dynamic economy.
“As a strategic partner, we look forward to highlighting the kingdom’s strengths as a competitive, diversified economy and a strategic hub for trade and investment,” she said.
“As we look to the future, Bahrain remains committed to enabling innovation, strengthening global partnerships, and creating opportunities for sustainable economic growth.”
Situated in the ‘Empowering Lives’ zone, the pavilion spans 995sqm and rises to a height of 13.7m across four levels, overlooking the seafront.
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.
The pavilion has silver sponsorship from Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), and Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund, Mumtalakat.
For more information, visit the Bahrain Pavilion’s official website at www.bahrainpavilion2025.bh and the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities at www.culture.gov.bh.
Stay connected through social media by following @CultureBah and @bahatexpo for the latest updates.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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