Emirati Essence

WAHO was single sourced to undertake the landscape design for the UAE Pavilion at EXPO 2020. An exhibition for the rich tangible and intangible history of the UAE, this pavilion firmly established itself as a source of inspiration and pride to Emiratis and UAE residents. The UAE Pavilion is one of only few that continues to be activated as part of Expo City, meaning that its landscape will become a part of the district’s vision towards a sustainable human-centric city.

Movement & Design

An integral initial step during the concept creation phase, was to gain a thorough understanding of the accessibility and circulation of the UAE Pavilion’s landscape and its specific operational constraints. Large volumes of visitors were anticipated, prompting the team to undertake in-depth studies relating to occupancy levels, security requirements, queuing strategy, visitor experience and activities, and shaded seating.

These insights set the basis for developing a strategy to guide the movement of visitors, prioritising their safety while also elevating their experience of the story of the pavilion by establishing a strong connection with the architecture of the UAE Pavilion itself.

The conceptual idea for the structure by Calatrava International was inspired by the grace and force of a falcon in flight. The streamlined shape of the falcon’s wings and feathers guided the design of blade-shaped paving encased with regionally sourced stone, whilst the paving’s linear radial pattern is an extension of the fluidity and movement of the bird’s wings. Concentric planters with singular plant species and radial paths leading into the surrounding area act as an entry point for visitors into the pavilion.

Also complementing the form of the structure, the shade structures were designed to provide shade in areas that were easily accessible for visitors waiting in the queue or taking a moment to rest. The linear falaj water network intersecting the paving and gravel surfaces added a gentle element of movement and rhythm.

Multi-Sensory Experience

One of 192 world pavilions included in EXPO 2020, it was important to differentiate the visitor journey by curating the exterior space as distinctly unique and attractive, especially as the pavilion of the host country.

Distinguishing the welcoming experience of the UAE Pavilion, a multi-sensory experience engaged visitors as they made their way towards the entry doors and also established the landscape as an enjoyable place for people to spend time in.

The landscape presented an immersive experience for visitors through multi-sensory engagement and innovation. Landscape experience offerings included sight, smell, touch, taste and sound. The use of native bird sounds, audio looped to family photos presented on display panels and the burning of sandalwood all combined into a heightened sensory experience within a relatively confined space. The range of colours and textures of plant species was juxtaposed against the serene sound and light emanating from the falaj.

Local Cultural Elements

Various physical and sensory landscape elements played an integral role to the pavilion and its story of the UAE, innately reflecting local culture and environment in a modern and sensitive way. Notably, the modern falaj feature was artfully integrated into the landscape as a cultural reference to local invention. Initiating at an elevated water source, the water led along a network of channels towards secondary water sources, and finally to a catchment. The water’s journey provided an opportunity for visitors to engage with a modern representation of this important cultural symbol, as well as a source of fascination for younger visitors.

Curated Space within a Space

The pavilion was situated near other exhibitions and pedestrian boulevards that had multiple activations running simultaneously. To define the space, landscape elements were strategically placed to establish a differentiated, tranquil ambiance. Trees and raised hill planting created visual and audio buffers to minimise interference of sounds and movements from outside the pavilion boundary. Shade structures, seating benches and audio elements guided visitors inwards. Visually, the planting and softscape added a striking juxtaposition of materiality with the white pavilion and clusters of trees provoked a curiosity to explore the space.

Evocative Desertscape

Exclusively featuring endemic and adaptive species, the planting expresses the unique characteristics of the flora and fauna of the UAE. The wider desertscape is evocative of the country’s natural landscape, providing unobstructed views of the pavilion. Canopy trees were introduced to provide shade.

Place of National Pride

Standing as a lasting symbol of the UAE, the UAE Pavilion and landscape continues to be activated for exhibitions of communal and national importance. Stepping into this landscape frames the Emirati culture in an accessible, modern context for locals and visitors alike.

Architecture offices involved in the design: Calatrava International

Location: Expo City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
https://maps.app.goo.gl/xzgqFsYN8ZFJmsTeA

Design year: 2019

Year Completed: 2021

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