UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka Welcomes Two Millionth Visitor with Tanabata-Inspired Celebration
Osaka, The Gulf Observer: The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, marked a significant milestone today as it welcomed its two millionth visitor, reaffirming its status as a hub of inspiration, cultural dialogue, and global connection. The occasion was celebrated with a special event inspired by Japan’s beloved Tanabata Festival, reflecting the Pavilion’s commitment to fostering shared experiences and collective aspirations.
In honour of the milestone, visitors were invited to participate in the Tanabata tradition by writing their wishes for a better future on specially designed Tanzaku cards. These were then hung on the Pavilion’s outdoor signage, with palm leaves—symbolic of the UAE’s date palm—gracefully replacing the traditional bamboo branches. The activity transformed the forecourt of the Pavilion into a vibrant tapestry of hope and dreams, symbolising the fusion of Emirati and Japanese cultures.
Tanabata, a centuries-old Japanese festival rooted in the themes of love, hope, and dreams, was a fitting motif for the celebration. Its integration into the UAE Pavilion’s milestone event underscored the Pavilion’s ethos of cultural appreciation and meaningful exchange.
Designed under the theme “Earth to Ether,” the UAE Pavilion offers a rich, multi-sensory journey through five thematic zones, each telling the story of the UAE’s heritage, ambitions, and innovative spirit. It has garnered widespread acclaim for its immersive storytelling, visionary architecture, and warm Emirati hospitality.
Commenting on the achievement, Shihab Alfaheem, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Arab Emirates to Japan and Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, stated:
“We are deeply honoured to have welcomed two million visitors to the UAE Pavilion. This reflects the world’s interest, trust, and connection with the UAE’s journey. By celebrating this milestone during Tanabata, we not only honoured a cherished Japanese tradition but also embraced the spirit of cultural exchange that defines Expo 2025. Our Pavilion continues to be a living space of ideas, creativity and shared values.”
Since its opening in April, the UAE Pavilion has hosted a wide array of engaging and impactful programming, including cultural performances, creative workshops, Emirati culinary showcases, expert talks, and exhibitions by Emirati artists. Each event has been carefully curated to offer visitors deeper insight into the UAE’s culture, values, and collaborative spirit.
Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, will continue through October 13, 2025. The UAE Pavilion remains open throughout the duration of the Expo, offering a welcoming, human-centred space where nations and cultures converge to shape a better, united future.
