The Sultanate of Oman proudly announces its participation in the 19th International Architecture
Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia with its pavilion, Traces. This exhibition explores the
Sablah, Oman’s traditional communal space, as a model for contemporary and future
architecture.

Aligning with Biennale Architettura 2025 and its theme, “Intelligens. Natural. Artificial.
Collective.”, Traces reflects the marks left by history, community, and the environment, creating
a dialogue between past and contemporary practices. Rooted in the principles of the Sablah, the
pavilion explores how heritage and contemporary design intersect to create adaptable and
resilient communal spaces.

Curated by Omani architect Majeda Alhinai, the pavilion takes a multidisciplinary approach,
integrating Omani craft traditions, spatial storytelling, and material innovation. The installation
emphasizes the role of social cohesion, dialogue, and collective spaces in shaping the built
environment; rooted in the belief that meaningful architectural solutions arise from a deep
understanding of the connections between place, people, and collective memory.

At the heart of Traces is the Sablah, a communal space that has long been central to Omani
culture. As old neighborhoods transform into modern cities, the Sablah remains a cultural bridge
between tradition and modernity. The Oman Pavilion reflects the enduring significance of this
space, inviting visitors to consider how architecture can preserve cultural heritage while
addressing the challenges of an evolving world.

More than just an architectural form, the Sablah embodies Oman’s identity—a place where
solidarity, hospitality, and intergenerational dialogue converge. It is a vital space for
communication, shared experiences, and the exchange of ideas. Through Traces, the pavilion
reinterprets this traditional space, emphasizing its role in shaping modern communal interactions
and fostering resilience.

The Oman Pavillion creates a space that honors Oman’s rich cultural heritage while embracing
contemporary architectural challenges. Like the Sablah, the pavilion fosters a collective spirit,
reflecting and respecting community practices. It serves as a platform for intergenerational
dialogue, bringing people together to share experiences and reinforce cultural traditions. More
than just a physical structure, the pavilion becomes a symbol of Omani identity—a living
expression of the community’s shared values and wisdom.

Though deeply rooted in Omani tradition, Traces offers a global model for designing inclusive,
adaptable environments that foster shared responsibility and connection. It demonstrates how
multifunctional communal spaces can address both local and universal challenges, promoting
interaction and inclusivity.

The Omani Pavilion at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia
will be open to the public from Saturday 10 May to Sunday 23 November 2025.

For more information on the pavilion and the themes of the exhibition, visit:
www.omanpavilion.org

Contact Information
Name: Ghusoon Al Jamali
Organization: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (Sultanate of Oman)
Email: Ghusoon.ALJamali@mcsy.gov.om
Phone Number: +96899144448