The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka has officially welcomed its four millionth visitor, underscoring its status as one of the most popular national pavilions at the event.
The milestone comes shortly after UAE Day celebrations at the Expo, which featured cultural performances, official ceremonies, and high-level participation from both the UAE and Japan.
UAE Day celebrations
A delegation led by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, attended the UAE Day event along with senior officials, Expo leadership, and commissioners general. The day highlighted the UAE’s blend of innovation and cultural identity, while reinforcing its longstanding ties with Japan.
To commemorate the four million visitor mark, the Pavilion hosted a public art activity known as Nurie Pazuru, a Japanese term meaning “colour-in puzzle.” Visitors collaborated to complete a large mural on the Pavilion’s façade, gradually revealing the number “4,000,000.” The final artwork now serves as a visual symbol of community participation at the Expo.
Commenting on the achievement, His Excellency Shihab Alfaheem, UAE Ambassador to Japan and Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion, said: “Reaching four million visitors is a reminder that the UAE Pavilion is not only representing the UAE, but every person who has stepped in and experienced the hospitality of our country, engaged with our Youth Ambassadors, and become part of our story. Coming so soon after the success of UAE Day, this achievement reflects the warmth of our welcome and the genuine curiosity of those who have made the Pavilion part of their Expo journey.”
Highlighting UAE innovation
Open since April 2025, the UAE Pavilion, titled Earth to Ether, offers a multisensory journey through five thematic zones. These showcase the UAE’s achievements in areas such as space exploration, healthcare innovation, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation.
The structure, designed by the Earth to Ether Design Collective — a team of UAE, Japanese, and international partners — is inspired by the date palm, a symbol of renewal. Its 90 sculptural columns are made using over two million palm fronds.
With Expo 2025 Osaka continuing until October 13, the Pavilion remains a key destination for visitors, attracting global attention through its immersive storytelling and cross-cultural engagement.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
