In less than a month, Bahrain will proudly unveil its pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, marking the Kingdom’s fourth appearance at this prestigious global event. With construction in full swing, the pavilion, titled “Connecting Seas,” is set to become one of Expo 2025’s most sustainable and visually striking showcases.
Spanning from 13 April to 13 October, Expo 2025 Osaka will unfold in Japan’s vibrant Kansai region under the ambitious theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” Organisers expect a staggering 28 million visitors, offering Bahrain an unparalleled global stage to share its rich cultural tapestry and ambitious vision for the future.
Designed by acclaimed Paris-based Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh, Bahrain’s pavilion effortlessly combines modern design principles with deep-rooted Bahraini traditions. Spread across 995 square metres and rising to 13.7 metres across four dynamic levels, the pavilion offers sweeping views of the sea—an ever-present element central to Bahrain’s history and culture.
“Connecting Seas” symbolically narrates the Kingdom’s enduring relationship with the sea, tracing back to the ancient Dilmun civilisation and stretching into Bahrain’s contemporary narrative of innovation and sustainability.
Championing sustainability, the pavilion is constructed from approximately 3,000 pieces of unengineered wood, ingeniously assembled without additional materials, ensuring minimal waste production. Inspired by the form and spirit of traditional Bahraini dhows, the pavilion’s design incorporates natural ventilation, significantly reducing energy consumption and eliminating the need for extensive mechanical cooling systems.
Architect Lina Ghotmeh described the pavilion as a celebration of “sustainability, cultural exchange, and craftsmanship.” The absence of concrete foundations means most materials used in construction can be recycled or repurposed after the Expo concludes, embodying Bahrain’s forward-thinking environmental values.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), highlighted that Bahrain’s continued presence at Expo demonstrates the Kingdom’s dedication to innovation and cultural diplomacy. “Our participation is a testament to Bahrain’s commitment to celebrating our cultural achievements and solidifying our role as a dynamic, advanced economy,” he said.
Noura Al Sayeh Holtrop, Deputy Commissioner General of the Pavilion, explained how the pavilion’s architectural concept reflects the intimate bond between the Bahraini community and the sea. “Our design is deeply influenced by maritime heritage, seamlessly blending Bahraini craftsmanship with traditional Japanese woodworking techniques,” she stated.
The pavilion promises visitors an extraordinary sensory journey, dividing the space into five unique areas, each designed to stimulate one of the senses. Bahrain’s creative community plays a central role in this immersive experience:
One dedicated floor within the pavilion is focused exclusively on Bahrain’s ambitious future goals, managed by the Economic Development Board (EDB). This engaging display underscores Bahrain’s strategic geographical position, robust economic infrastructure, and welcoming investment climate, illustrating why the Kingdom remains a compelling destination for global investors.
Adding to the experience, acclaimed Bahraini chef Tala Bashmi will helm a café that fuses traditional Bahraini dishes with innovative Japanese twists, crafting an irresistible culinary offering. Visitors can savour unique flavours while exploring the pavilion.
Complementing the culinary delights, the pavilion’s gift shop will showcase carefully curated, heritage-inspired products that celebrate Bahraini creativity. Meanwhile, leading Bahraini fashion designer Lulwa Al Amin has crafted bespoke uniforms for the pavilion’s staff and volunteers, beautifully encapsulating Bahrain’s cultural identity and creative spirit.
Expo 2025 Osaka also allows each participating nation to celebrate its own dedicated national day, spotlighting its culture, values, and traditions on the global stage. Bahrain eagerly anticipates this opportunity to further share its vibrant heritage and contemporary dynamism with international visitors.
Ultimately, Bahrain’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is not merely a building—it is an invitation to discover the Kingdom’s rich historical, cultural, and economic ties to the sea. With its innovative design, compelling narrative, and sensory engagement, the pavilion is set to leave an enduring impression, affirming Bahrain’s commitment to building bridges between tradition and innovation, culture and sustainability.
As the Kingdom readies itself to open this cultural landmark, anticipation builds around how Bahrain will continue to inspire global audiences at Expo 2025 Osaka. Stay tuned with Bahrain Confidential for all the latest updates from this exciting journey.
