Osaka: The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka welcomed Dr Sultan AlNeyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and UAE astronaut, for a special visit that highlighted the nation's achievements in space exploration and its commitment to accelerating progress through research, innovation, and youth engagement.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr AlNeyadi was received by Shihab AlFaheem, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Arab Emirates to Japan and Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. The minister experienced a guided tour through the Pavilion's immersive showcase, From Earth to Ether.
During the visit, Dr AlNeyadi explored the Pavilion's multi-sensory journey, which presents the UAE's national story of transformation, rooted in enduring values. The experience features contributions of individuals shaping the future of the UAE, including the Explorers of Space, the Catalysts of Healthcare, and the Stewards of Sustainability, culminating in an installation titled Woven Legacies.
A significant part of the tour included the Explorers of Space section, where Dr AlNeyadi is featured as one of the Pavilion's 'Dreamers Who Do'. This segment honors Emiratis who have made an impact globally. His presence added depth and personal connection to the exhibit, allowing visitors to engage with an inspiring figure central to the Pavilion's narrative.
He was accompanied by Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director-General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre. During a specially organized event at the Pavilion, Dr AlNeyadi addressed an audience, reflecting on his six-month mission aboard the International Space Station as part of Expedition 69. He shared insights on daily life in orbit, scientific experiments, and the importance of international partnerships in advancing space research, answering audience questions in an open session.
Dr AlNeyadi expressed, 'It has been a privilege to visit the UAE Pavilion here in Osaka and see how our national story is being brought to life on the global stage. The Explorers of Space zone and the 'Meet the Dreamers Who Do' experience highlight the UAE's belief in its people. In just a few years, we have moved from ambition to achievement in space exploration. Our growing collaboration with Japan is a strong example of what shared vision can deliver for the future of humanity.'
His visit coincided with Expo 2025's 'Future of Community and Mobility' theme week, which focuses on how science, innovation, and collective effort can transform societal connections and progress. His participation underscored the UAE's leadership in these discussions, particularly in advanced technology and space exploration.
After the Pavilion tour, Dr AlNeyadi visited several other national pavilions as part of a broader tour of Expo 2025 Osaka. The UAE Pavilion remains open daily, providing visitors with an immersive and multi-sensory experience that highlights the people, ideas, and achievements shaping a promising future from Earth to Ether.