Osaka Expo Sensation: UAE Pavilion Surpasses 3M Visitor Mark

The UAE Pavilion at Osaka Expo has reached an impressive milestone with three million visitors, marking a significant achievement in global cultural exchange. This stunning glass structure showcases towering tree columns made from agricultural waste and has emerged as one of the exhibition’s most popular attractions.

The pavilion gives visitors a chance to immerse themselves in sensory experiences through interactive installations and compelling storytelling. The entrance showcases innovative pavers made from Datecrete – a sustainable cement alternative that UAE-based innovators create from crushed date seeds. The space makes shared exploration possible as visitors connect with exhibits and diverse programming that streamlines collective progress. Many guests have returned to the Osaka Expo 2025 pavilions multiple times, which is evidence of the lasting impact and cross-cultural connections these spaces promote.

UAE Pavilion Reaches 3 Million Visitors at Osaka Expo 2025

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The UAE Pavilion at Osaka Expo 2025 has become one of the most popular attractions since it opened in April 2025. The pavilion reached a remarkable milestone of three million visitors on August 21, 2025. This achievement makes it one of the most visited national pavilions at the expo.

A special celebration marked this milestone. The Pavilion team and Youth Ambassadors welcomed guests with warm hospitality. These ambassadors have played a significant role to facilitate storytelling and cultural conversations throughout the event.

Shihab Alfaheem, UAE Ambassador to Japan and Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion, described the achievement as “a cherished accomplishment that speaks to the global resonance of the UAE’s story and our shared aspirations for the future.”

The Pavilion’s theme “Earth to Ether” showcases the country’s trip from its land-based heritage to a future shaped by breakthroughs. Its unique architecture features 90 columns made from agricultural palm waste. The design draws inspiration from date palms and reflects the pavilion’s eco-friendly philosophy.

Visitors often return two or three times, which shows the pavilion’s lasting impact on people from different cultures. The UAE Pavilion continues to welcome guests until October 13, sharing its vision of a shared, eco-friendly future.

Design Team Blends Emirati Heritage with Japanese Craftsmanship

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The Earth to Ether Design Collective stands behind the UAE Pavilion’s architectural marvel at Osaka Expo 2025. This interdisciplinary group brings together Emirati, Japanese, and international partners who excel in architecture, engineering, and craftsmanship. Design leaders Mariam Almemari, Shaikha Al Ketbi, Shamma Al Bastaki, and Omar Al Suwaidi worked with global partners to create this cultural landmark.

The pavilion’s centerpiece features 90 striking columns that stand between nine and sixteen meters tall. These columns use about two million palm fronds from the UAE, Egypt, and Tunisia. Each frond needed careful preparation – teams cleaned, straightened, and treated the materials before shipping them to Japan.

The project showcases cross-cultural innovation in construction. “The material is unfamiliar here,” Al Ketbi explains. “We worked with a Japanese carpentry studio to make it happen. It required a whole new supply chain”. Japanese woodworking experts Process Iguchi and Shelter developed eco-friendly construction elements using date palm agricultural waste.

The design blends both cultures seamlessly. Circular patterns in the layout remind visitors of traditional gathering spaces, while Japanese textile techniques merge with Emirati al-khoos patterns – a traditional weaving style using dried palm leaves. The structure stands as a symbol of UAE and Japan’s enduring partnership and their steadfast dedication to sustainable innovation.

Interactive Zones and Programming Attract Global Audience

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Visitors at the UAE Pavilion in Osaka Expo 2025 explore five thematic zones that highlight the nation’s achievements in space exploration, healthcare breakthroughs, green technologies, and cultural heritage. The pavilion’s location in the “Empowering Lives” zone provides an unmatched experience. Guests can follow a linear path or freely explore the accessible spaces based on their interests.

Daily programming has transformed the pavilion into a bustling cultural center that attracts excited crowds. Expert talks, creative workshops, Emirati food showcases, and artistic performances fill the schedule. The pavilion’s lasting effect shows in how many guests return to participate in different programs.

The space features interactive installations that appeal to everyone. Young visitors design future cities while adults delve into genomics or space research, which makes learning fun and engaging. Cinematic storytelling combines with hands-on and gamified stations to create an experience that works for all knowledge levels.

UAE’s Youth Ambassadors contribute significantly to this soaring win. These 24 Emirati representatives work with their Japanese counterparts to bring stories to life and create authentic cultural exchanges. They take turns at six main stations, leading visitors through 20-minute tours. Their genuine hospitality has made the pavilion a standout attraction at the Osaka Expo 2025.