the saudi arabia pavilion
image by remko tanis


there's just 1 day left to go until the official opening of the shanghai world expo 2010.

here are some images of the saudi arabia pavilion which has been a collaboration
between chinese and saudi architects -  consisting of a 'silk road treasure boat' situated
in a 'happy desert'. 

covering a total area of 6,000 square meters, the saudi arabia pavilion features a fine
centerpiece: a huge hanging boat shaped like a half moon. many trees are planted on
the top deck of the boat, creating a hanging garden, and thus epitomizing the oasis in
the desert. the pavilion also boasts a 3D IMAX theater that is larger than any other such
theater in the world. 'tents' are put up under the date trees for visitors to experience
the feeling of 'living in a tent'. the top deck is also a good spot for a nice riverside view.


a bird's eye view, image by meiguoxing

named 'the arabian city' and with the theme of 'vitality for life', the saudi arabia
pavilion showcases the arabian wisdom in creating wonderful city life in spite of
the severe natural environment without rivers or lakes. highlights of its exhibition
include four types of cities: the city of energy, the city of oasis, the ancient city with
rich cultural heritage, and the city of fast-growth economy.



view from above
photo AFP

the first floor of the pavilion is a garden with both chinese and saudi trees growing,
a symbol of the friendship between the two nations. saudi arabia, the homeland of
the date palm tree, has reproduced the scene of an oasis in the desert by replanting
palm trees on both the rooftop garden and the friendship garden at the ground level.

the pavilion features a 2,000-square-meter cultural plaza where traditional cultural
activities will take place. dancers from all over saudi arabia will participate in dances
and other activities within the plaza on a daily basis. the main entrance and exit of
the pavilion form part of the pavilion hall, which features an enormous atrium with
walls and fountains with rich arabic geometrical latticework. visitors have the chance
to explore the historical silk road route as well as traditional crafts and special collections.



rendering of the saudi arabia pavilion




rendering of the saudi arabia pavilion








the pavilion at night