Pavilion of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,
design: uau studio (UOOU Studio)
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion was designed by European studio uau studio for Doha Horticultural Expo 2023 in Qatar. "Green desert, better environment" - the motto of the first international horticultural exhibition held in the Middle East and North Africa region, promotes sustainable behavior and increased environmental awareness to mitigate and reduce desertification through green solutions.
Exterior view - LED facade presenting a light show at sunset
© uau studio
KSA Pavilion - an ecocentric vision of harmony
A broad group of experts, after reviewing the Expo's goals, gave birth to the KSA Pavilion project. Together with Expo Pavilion Group and Neon (formerly Cityneon), uau studio had the honor of presenting the design and construction for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at Expo 2023 in Doha , Qatar. An ecocentric vision led them to envision an exhibition area that respects the majesty of the Saudi land while inviting visitors to be part of an immersive, synergistic experience.
Indoor garden - an indoor lush garden with a variety of Saudi Arabian plant species
© uau studio
The KSA pavilion aims to reflect the interrelationships between ecosystems, climate, energy, material life cycle and people to promote processes that do not damage the ecosystem, but enrich and regenerate it.
Isometric view of the pavilion toward the northeast, showing a variety of soils and plants
© uau studio
a great oasis in the desert -.
nature and technology of the KSA Pavilion
With an exhibition area of 5,500 square meters, the Saudi pavilion is the second largest after the Qatar pavilion, offering a unique experience through a synergistic combination of nature and technology. The interactive environment fits perfectly with the event's theme, allowing visitors to learn about influential national initiatives focused on promoting modern agriculture, technology and innovation, environmental awareness and sustainable development.
A facade depicting trees on the roof and in the garden
© uau studio
The design of the KSA pavilion was inspired by the imposing Saudi Hijaz mountains, which sparked the concept of a perimeter shading system that, by recreating the panorama of the peaks, protects the lush indoor garden from the desert climate. Consciously designed, the diverse pathways on the exterior lead visitors to the natural richness of Saudi landscapes and resources.
Rooftop view - a wide, sun-soaked terrace with a sunshade shielding the VIP area
© uau studio
Metaphors of landscape in the KSA Pavilion
In the studio-designed space , undulating, lively paths lead guests to the garden, shaped like wadis - Saudi valleys (seasonal rivers typical of the Middle East).
Floor plan of the building
© uau studio
The diverse landscape of the region is on full display as visitors enter the central part of the garden, a verdant space surrounded by local plant species (such as sidr, lavender, basil and gray ghaf) and artificial watercourses. This flourishing garden demonstrates Saudi Arabia's deep commitment to a greener tomorrow. Through the Greening Saudi initiative, the country is rehabilitating 40 million hectares of desert, restoring its natural greenery.
An elevation showing various trees on the roof and in the garden
© uau studio
from desert to forest - a
a thriving, sustainable future
Like a pilgrim arriving at an oasis, the visitor can take part in an interactivejourney, showing the stark contrast between the scorching desert outside, symbolizing the past and present, and the inner, blooming garden, a metaphor for Saudi Arabia's burgeoning future. The pavilion immediately reveals its goal of responding to the contemporary need for sustainable and ecologically responsible spaces, cultivating the culture of Saudi Arabia and promoting an innovative and respectful architectural perspective.
A wide sunshade covers the terrace atop the main building
© uau studio
dominant architectural detail - the central sunshade
Climbing the elaborate and curved staircase past the majlis, or Arabian lounge, leads to the terrace, which offers a lovely view of the entire inner garden. A centrally located, branching sunshade organizes the space around it, where the presence of sophisticated white sofas and shady trees makes the building's roof a pleasant environment to enjoy the amazing landscape of Doha's center.
View of the facade presenting a light show at sunset
© uau studio
Between tradition and innovation - the identity of the Saudi Kingdom in the interiors of the pavilion
In designing the interiors, we saw the Saudi Kingdom's identity as deeply connected to the balance between innovation and traditions. Similarly, we envisioned the space as a symbol of the unusual combination of modern shapes and repeated patterns.
- explain the architects.
White armchairs in the middle of a room decorated with traditional ornaments and plants
© uau studio
From the main entrance one can see two different areas merging into the same elegant building. The immersive area is located on the west side, while the east side contains various functional spaces. On the west side, the journey continues through a monumental revolving door that, alongside a charming reception area, leads visitors to the most exclusive space.
A spacious, minimalist bathroom interior in beige and gray colors
© uau studio
Similar to the passage through the dry valley forms of the wadi, the VIP area is accessible after passing through a narrow corridor that ends in an oasis-lounging area. This private meeting space takes the form of a circular lounge with a majlis at its center. In Arab tradition, the majlis was the largest room in the house, designed to receive and entertain guests, where men gathered to discuss religious, political and commercial matters. The folkloric atmosphere of the space is enhanced by the traditional patterns that stretch across the panels and glass walls, recreating Arabic decorations characteristic of various regions of Saudi Arabia. The presence of plants in the rooms combined with neon lights makes this sector a perfect blend of custom, innovation and elegance.
Majlis room with round white sofa, warm gold panels and plants
© uau studio
KSA Pavilion's multimedia technology
...From the outside: an interactive facade experience
The essence of the KSA Pavilion' s concept is closely related to its immersive nature, which is experienced by the visitor right from the start: a total of 3.5 km of LED-lit panels showcase some of Saudi Arabia's most beautiful natural treasures, offering an interactive experience around the pavilion' s facade.
A detail of the façade with the flag of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
© uau studio
...from the inside: an immersive multimedia show
This interactive path unfolds inside the building, offering visitors an unforgettable adventure. A digital pre-show accompanies viewers on a winding and magical walk that leads them to a final immersive 360º show.
Children sitting in a circular room during the multimedia light show.
© uau studio
The 165-square-meter circular room displays an enchanting spectacle showcasing Saudi Arabia's efforts to improve the quality of life and protect future generations at home and abroad.SGI - the Saudi Green Initiative - is a royal campaign that strives for a greener and more sustainable future, focusing on three main goals: reducing emissions, greening Saudi Arabia, and protecting the land and sea. The campaign's activities are the subject of interactive multimedia presentations.
Two little girls playing with lights during the multimedia show
© uau studio
