Qatar Inaugurates Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka
Under the patronage of HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the State of Qatar officially inaugurated its national pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.
The ceremony was led by HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums. Also in attendance were HE Jaber bin Jarallah Al Marri, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Japan and Commissioner General of the Pavilion; Sheikh Ali bin Alwaleed Al Thani, Deputy Commissioner General and Chair of the Qatar Pavilion Organising Committee; and Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office, alongside dignitaries and international guests.
The event marked the official beginning of Qatar’s six-month participation in Expo 2025, which runs from 13 April to 13 October, celebrating culture, innovation and global exchange.
Speaking at the opening, HE Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani emphasised the importance of Expo 2025 Osaka as a platform for shared progress. He noted that Qatar’s National Vision 2030 reflects the country’s strong commitment to building a future grounded in sustainability, opportunity, and innovation.
HE Sheikha Al Mayassa highlighted Qatar’s deep connection to its coastline, which has inspired generations and played a defining role in shaping the country’s identity. She welcomed the opportunity to share Qatar’s story with the world and to highlight the enduring ties between Qatar and Japan.
HE Jaber bin Jarallah Al Marri, Ambassador of Qatar to Japan and Commissioner General of the Pavilion, described the event as a symbol of innovation, culture and unity. He noted that the pavilion reflects Qatar’s long-standing bilateral relations with Japan, underpinned by more than 50 years of close friendship and collaboration.
Sheikh Ali bin Alwaleed Al Thani, Deputy Commissioner General and Chair of the Organising Committee, invited the world to explore Qatar’s story; one of transformation, resilience and contribution, noting how the nation has turned its natural resources into meaningful global contributions while staying true to its heritage and values.
Titled “From the Coastline, We Progress”, the Qatar pavilion offers an immersive experience inspired by the nation’s deep connection to the sea. Visitors are taken on a journey from Qatar’s origins as a maritime society to its emergence as a leader in sustainable development and innovation.
The pavilion is divided into two main zones, Sea and Land, and features interactive displays that highlight Qatar’s natural and cultural heritage, urban growth, and global contributions in sustainability and innovation. A dedicated VIP space showcases the Scrolls of Friendship and cultural features that celebrate Qatar and Japan’s shared traditions.
Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the structure draws inspiration from the sails of traditional Qatari dhows and incorporates kigumi, a Japanese wood joinery technique. The result is a striking architectural fusion of tradition and modernity, where light, water and natural materials come together to create a symbol of cultural harmony.
Since opening to the public, the Qatar Pavilion has drawn significant attention, quickly becoming one of the most visited at Expo 2025 Osaka. With nearly 8,000 visitors in just the first few days, the strong turnout reflects global interest in Qatar’s story of innovation, sustainability and cultural heritage.
Qatar’s participation at Expo 2025 Osaka underscores the nation’s enduring commitment to cultural exchange, sustainable innovation and global dialogue, in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
