UAE's architectural vision displayed at Osaka Expo

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has wrapped up the “Pillars of Arish: Architecture in Transition” symposium, held at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, in Japan.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Organised in partnership with the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 and supported by the Dubai Cultural Grant Programme, an initiative under Dubai's Quality of Life Strategy, the event is part of the Authority's broader mission to strengthen the cultural and creative sector, and enhance the country’s global appeal.

Aligned with the UAE Pavilion’s theme, “From Earth to Ether,” which sets out the UAE's vision for humanity’s future, the first-of-its-kind curated symposium explored architecture in the UAE, focusing on local design practices, material innovation, and regional exchange between the UAE, Japan and other nations.

Discussions also addressed the significance of traditional knowledge in shaping the urban landscape, with particular emphasis on Arish structures and context-sensitive solutions.

In her opening remarks, Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, described the UAE Pavilion as a powerful reflection of the country’s ambition and enduring commitment to heritage as a driver of innovation. She noted how this spirit comes to life through the pavilion’s layout, which integrates local practices, such as using arish (palm fronds), into a contemporary setting.