OSAKA: The UAE will unveil a spectacular architectural wonder at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, built using over two million palm fronds, blending heritage with futuristic sustainability.
The UAE pavilion, themed “Earth to Ether”, takes the shape of a forest of 90 towering wooden columns, each 16 metres tall. This striking display honours the humble palm tree — a cultural symbol of resilience and generosity — using palm fronds gathered from across the Middle East and North Africa.
Every detail of the pavilion reflects the UAE’s deep-rooted heritage, brought to life through Japanese carpentry techniques and Emirati craftsmanship. The structure incorporates recycled date pits — nearly two tonnes — into its façade and entrances, symbolising renewal through nature.
Inside, even the flooring tells a story. A cement alternative called “Datecrete”, made from ground date pits, is used in the pavilion’s entrance — a 100% Emirati innovation. Another material, “Date Form”, created from palm and date waste, features throughout the design, showing how natural resources can be transformed into future-forward building materials.
Shaikha Al Ketbi, Creative Director and Deputy Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion, explained that the pavilion champions eco-conscious architecture rooted in the UAE’s environment. It’s the result of a global collaboration between Emirati, Japanese, Italian, and international studios like Atelier Brückner, Ro’ya, Raymond, and SLA, all guided by the Expo UAE Team.
Nature and culture converge throughout the pavilion. Inspired by Japanese “Satoyama” forests, the natural areas include oak and red pine trees, while the Pergola roof is made from Japanese cedar and shaded with Emirati “Khoos” patterns — a nod to traditional palm weaving.
This innovative, sustainable space reflects the UAE’s evolving story — one rooted in tradition but boldly stepping into the future.
