On Sunday, April 13, the Kingdom of Bahrain will inaugurate its national pavilion, “Connecting Seas”, at Expo 2025 Osaka. This marks the Kingdom’s fourth national participation in the World Expo. Held in the Kansai region of Japan, this year’s edition runs until October 13, 2025, under the overarching theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, featuring three sub-themes: “Saving Lives”, “Empowering Lives”, and “Connecting Lives”.
Bahrain’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka is organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), in partnership with the Economic Development Board.
Situated in the “Empowering Lives” zone, the pavilion spans 995 square meters and rises to a height of 13.7 meters across four levels, overlooking tue seafront. Designed by Lebanese architect Lina Ghotmeh and her Paris-based practice Lina Ghotmeh — Architecture, the structure will be one of the most sustainable pavilions in the Expo. It reflects Bahrain’s deep-rooted historical connection to the sea and is inspired by the Kingdom’s maritime heritage and Japanese woodworking traditions.
Inside, the pavilion offers an immersive sensory experience through five dedicated zones. The experience is brought to life through collaborations with a range of creative talents, including Bahraini design company Shepherd Studio and Bahraini artist and composer Hassan Hujairi.
A dedicated floor focuses on Bahrain’s future, supervised by the Economic Development Board, showcasing the Kingdom’s strategic location and its position as an open, global economic hub attractive to investors.
The pavilion also includes a café curated by Bahraini chef Tala Bashmi, offering a menu that blends authentic Bahraini flavors with modern Japanese culinary techniques.
Complementing the experience is a gift shop featuring contemporary products inspired by local heritage. Pavilion staff and volunteers will wear uniforms designed by Bahraini fashion designer Lulwa Al Amin, reflecting the nation’s cultural identity and passion for innovation.
The pavilion represents a broad national collaboration, including Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY), Bahrain Institute for Pearls & Gemstones (DANAT), Bapco Energies, BFG International, Depaj, GFH Financial Group, Midal Cables, and Racing Force Group, with silver sponsorship from Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), and Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund; Mumtalakat.
Expo 2025 Osaka is expected to attract over 28 million visitors from around the world, with participation from approximately 150 countries. Each country will also have the opportunity to celebrate its National Day during the Expo, sharing its cultural values and vision with the world.
