Osaka : In less than a month, the Kingdom of Bahrain will inaugurate its fourth national participation in the World Expo at Expo 2025 Osaka.
Construction is ongoing for the Kingdom’s pavilion, themed “Connecting Seas”, which, upon completion, will stand as one of the most sustainable pavilions in the Expo. The pavilion seamlessly blends modernity with heritage, narrating Bahrain’s enduring connection with the sea from the Dilmun civilisation to the present day.
Expo 2025 Osaka will take place in the Kansai region of Japan from April 13 to October 13, under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”. It features three sub-themes: “Saving Lives”, “Empowering Lives”, and “Connecting Lives.”
Organisers expect over 28 million visitors to explore contributions from around 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 have the opportunity to designate a national day during the Expo to celebrate its culture and values.
Located in the Empowering Lives district, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Pavilion, is organised by Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), and designed by the Paris based Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh with her practice Lina Ghotmeh; Architecture spans 995 square metres with a total height of 13.7 metres across four levels, offering a scenic view of the sea.
Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of BACA, emphasised that participating in the Expo for the fourth consecutive time provides Bahrain with a vital global stage to showcase our nation’s cultural achievements and solidify the Kingdom’s position as a leading hub of innovation, culture, and a dynamic, advanced economy.
He added that the vision seeks to highlight Bahrain’s rich heritage, long history, current achievements, and future goals. By showcasing the Kingdom’s maritime legacy, which is central to its civilisation, the aim is to show that while Bahrain is deeply rooted in strong values and culture, it also embraces innovation and sustainability to build a better future.
Noura Al Sayeh Holtrop, Deputy Commissioner General of the Pavilion, highlights that the pavilion’s architectural design reflects the strong connection between the Bahraini community and the sea. She explained that it is inspired by the Kingdom of Bahrain’s maritime heritage and the traditional ships that are an important part of its history. She also noted that the design combines Bahraini craftsmanship with Japanese woodworking techniques.
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. After the conclusion of the Expo, all components are planned to be recycled.
Lina Ghotmeh explained that the Bahrain Pavilion represents sustainability, cultural exchange, and craftsmanship.
Built from around 3,000 pieces of unengineered wood joined together without extra materials, it generates minimal waste. Its open shape, inspired by a dhow, reflects themes of travel and connection. The structure avoids concrete foundations, allowing most materials to be reused. Natural ventilation helps reduce energy use, making the pavilion an example of sustainable and innovative design.
BACA has collaborated with artistic talent to craft a unique experience that engages the senses. 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.
The exhibition extends into a dedicated floor outlining Bahrain’s future goals. Overseen by the Economic Development Board (EDB), it highlights Bahrain’s strategic location and global standing as an open economic centre and investment-friendly environment.
A café helmed by chef Tala Bashmi, will offer a curated menu that fuses authentic Bahraini flavours with innovative Japanese touches. Enhancing the experience, the gift shop showcases innovative products inspired by local heritage, while 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.
The Kingdom of Bahrain’s Pavilion promises an immersive journey to visitors that reflects Bahrain’s historical, cultural, and economic ties to the sea.
