Saudi Pavilion in Osaka Wins Top Prize for Cultural Design
The Saudi Pavilion was designed by Foster + Partners to reflect the Kingdom's cultural wealth.
May 29, 2025
Saudi Arabia's pavilion at Expo Osaka 2025 has received the Gold Prize in the Cultural Architecture – Interactive and Experiential Spaces category at the New York Architectural Design Awards. The award recognised the pavilion for its architectural excellence and its ability to deliver an immersive experience that reflects the cultural wealth of Saudi Arabia. Designed by Foster + Partners, the pavilion was developed under the supervision of the Saudi Architecture and Design Commission, with leadership from CEO Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman and Project Manager Fatima Al-Doukhi.
The pavilion's layout guides visitors through an outer courtyard into a central inner courtyard, creating a contemplative journey influenced by the geographical and cultural diversity of Saudi cities and regions. It serves not only as a showcase of architectural design but also as a venue for cultural performances and programming during the six-month duration of the Expo. A key theme of the design is the exploration of cultural parallels between Saudi Arabia and Japan, inviting visitors into a spirit of cross-cultural discovery.
In terms of sustainability, the structure integrates passive cooling techniques and strategically arranged structural blocks to promote natural airflow. It uses low-carbon construction materials, solar technologies, and energy-efficient lighting, all in line with Japanese and international environmental standards. Accessibility was a core principle in the design, with features such as Braille signage, inclusive pathways, and interactive elements tailored to diverse user needs.
Visually, the pavilion is marked by a modular façade inspired by Voronoi diagrams, offering both aesthetic impact and functional flexibility. This element contributes to the pavilion's adaptability and environmental harmony.
Since opening, the Saudi Pavilion has welcomed more than 500,000 visitors.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Egypt Independent
21 hours ago
- Egypt Independent
Egyptian, Saudi FMs discuss regional implications of escalation between Israel, Iran
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty reiterated on Saturday 21/6/2025 called for exerting all political, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, declare a ceasefire and resume the diplomatic process to reach a sustainable agreement on Iran's nuclear program. Abdelatty made his remarks during his meeting with Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan, on the sidelines of the meetings of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, Turkey. The two officials discussed the implications of the ongoing escalation between Israel and Iran on regional stability. Abdelatty also praised the strong fraternal ties between Cairo and Riyadh, emphasizing Egypt's commitment to launching the Egyptian-Saudi Supreme Coordination Council and holding the Egyptian-Saudi Investment Forum. He described the initiatives as a significant and constructive step toward enhancing bilateral economic relations. Furthermore, the Egyptian Minister highlighted that Cairo prioritizes localizing of industry and technology, stressing the importance of achieving industrial integration between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, most particularly in sectors linked to renewable energy and food security.
Mid East Info
2 days ago
- Mid East Info
Aseer and Taif Offer Perfect Weather Conditions for Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures - Middle East Business News and Information
As summer temperatures soar across the Kingdom, Aseer and Taif emerge as ideal destinations offering perfect weather conditions for outdoor enthusiasts seeking refreshing mountain escapes and memorable family experiences. Both regions are currently enjoying exceptional weather, with Aseer's moderate summer breezes and Taif's naturally cool mountain climate creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities. The pleasant temperatures and clear skies provide the perfect setting for exploration and adventure. In Aseer, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural experience of Almuftaha Village, where art exhibitions, handicrafts, and local cuisine blend seamlessly with the mild Abha breezes. Adventure seekers can explore the Plateau Event – a seasonal family experience that blends entertainment, culture, and Saudi hospitality in a refreshing summer atmosphere. Nature lovers will find tranquility at Liwan Farm, while Sky Village offers thrilling mountain activities perfect for families and friends. The spectacular Al Habala Park beckons with breathtaking views, cable car rides, waterfalls, and family-friendly events including camping, while Sky Village provides an ideal mountain setting for group adventures with its food trucks and vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for morning and evening relaxation. Taif complements these offerings with Arruddaf Park, where visitors enjoy pristine nature, fresh air, live music, and interactive fountains amid stunning landscapes. The famous rose factories invite guests to experience the fragrant essence of Taif roses and discover local products, while the renowned Al Shafa Mountain provides cool summer temperatures and enchanting panoramic views. Adding to the appeal, visitors can take advantage of sizzling promotional offers throughout both destinations, including exclusive discounts and exciting prizes that make these mountain getaways even more attractive for budget-conscious families and adventure-seeking youth. Families and young adventurers are encouraged to seize this exceptional weather to create lasting memories in these magnificent mountain destinations. The combination of perfect climate conditions and diverse outdoor offerings makes this the ideal ti
Al-Ahram Weekly
2 days ago
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Egypt FM discusses efforts to de-escalate Israel-Iran conflict with Iranian counterpart in Istanbul - Foreign Affairs
Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty discussed the ongoing Israeli aggression on Iran and efforts to de-escalate the conflict between Tel-Aviv and Tehran with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi in Turkey on Saturday. The two top diplomats met in Istanbul during the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit. According to the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, Minister Abdelatty reviewed with Araghchi intensive diplomatic efforts undertaken in recent days to de-escalate the conflict and achieve a ceasefire. Adelatty stressed to Araghchi the importance of pursuing diplomatic and political avenues to reach a sustainable agreement on Iran's nuclear program, to contain the escalating situation, and prevent further instability in the region. For his part, FM Aragchi shared the outcomes of his Friday talks in Geneva with the foreign ministers of the European Troika (the UK, France, and Germany) and the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, focusing on the Iranian nuclear issue. Both ministers agreed to maintain communication and continue consultations to resolve the crisis and safeguard regional security and stability. Meeting with Saudi counterpart Minister Abdelatty also met with his Saudi and Iraqi counterparts on the sidelines of the OIC summit. Minister Badr Abdelatty and Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, exchanged views on the consequences of the ongoing escalation between Israel and Iran. Abdelatty reiterated the urgent need for political and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate, achieve a ceasefire, and resume diplomatic negotiations aimed at reaching a sustainable agreement on the Iranian nuclear file. Aside from the regional development, Minister Abdelatty also praised the strong fraternal ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to launching the Saudi-Egyptian Supreme Coordination Council and holding the Saudi-Egyptian Investment Forum, with the participation of ministers and leading business figures from both countries. He emphasized that this forum is a key and constructive step to strengthen economic relations, in line with the directives of the political leadership in both nations to elevate bilateral ties to broader horizons. The Egyptian FM also outlined Egypt's vision for the upcoming Egyptian-Gulf Investment Forum, scheduled to be hosted in Cairo later this year under the framework of the ministerial consultative mechanism between Egypt and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The forum is expected to mark a qualitative leap in economic integration between Egypt and the GCC, particularly in trade, industry, renewable energy, logistics, communications and information technology, digital transformation, healthcare, agriculture, and education. The forum is anticipated to create valuable opportunities to enhance partnerships and cooperation programs between Egypt and its Gulf partners. Minister Abdelatty further highlighted Egypt's prioritization of localizing industry and technology, stressing the importance of achieving industrial integration between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, especially in renewable energy and food security. He also reviewed the incentives and facilities provided by the Egyptian government to industrial investors. Meeting with Iraqi counterpart Egypt's Minister of Foreign Badr Abdelatty met with Fuad Hussein, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq, in Istanbul, on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meetings. During the meeting, FM Abdelatty stressed the importance of intensified Arab consultation and coordination regarding the escalating military tensions between Israel and Iran and their grave implications for regional security and stability. He underscored the need to halt the escalation, return to negotiations, and pursue political and diplomatic solutions to prevent the region from descending into widespread chaos. The Egyptian FM also outlined Egypt's ongoing efforts to restore a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need. He noted that regional developments and challenges require greater cooperation and integration among Arab nations. He also reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to implementing joint projects under the trilateral cooperation mechanism between Egypt, Iraq, and Jordan. Minister Abdelatty praised the deep-rooted and brotherly ties between Egypt and Iraq, commending the successful convening of the third session of the Egyptian-Iraqi Higher Joint Committee, which took place in Baghdad in January 2025. The session concluded with the signing of 12 agreements to advance relations between the two nations. He also emphasized Egypt's readiness to contribute to Iraq's development projects, highlighting the extensive experience and capabilities of Egyptian companies in this field. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
