Evolution Scenic modular timber display frames at the COP28 UAE Pavilion

Cultural pavilions require scenic environments that do more than provide a backdrop. They must support storytelling, live demonstrations and visitor interaction while creating an authentic sense of place.


During COP28, held from 30 November to 12 December 2023, the UAE Pavilion at Expo City Dubai provided an interactive cultural environment where visitors could explore Emirati heritage alongside the wider themes of sustainability.


Appointed by the National Projects Office, Evolution Scenic designed, fabricated and installed scenic elements throughout the pavilion, creating environments for traditional craftsmanship, cultural performances, marine heritage displays and guided storytelling.


The result brought together contemporary fabrication and traditional cultural references within a cohesive visitor experience.

The Challenge


The UAE Pavilion needed to communicate the country's cultural heritage within the context of COP28, creating an experience that was authentic, engaging and aligned with the pavilion's sustainability objectives.


Multiple cultural activities had to coexist within the environment, including traditional craft demonstrations, gahwa preparation, traditional medicine displays, Ayallah performances and marine heritage exhibits.


The scenic approach therefore needed to support live activity and visitor movement while maintaining a consistent visual language throughout the pavilion. Elements also needed to transition effectively between daytime and evening operation across the COP28 programme.

The Solution


Evolution Scenic developed a series of custom scenic environments designed around the pavilion's cultural programme and visitor journey.


Modular scenic structures were fabricated to integrate naturally with the existing pavilion environment while supporting the project's sustainability-led approach. Dedicated areas were created for live demonstrations of traditional Emirati crafts, including date palm weaving, gahwa preparation and traditional medicine.


Custom-built environments supported live Ayallah performances and marine craft exhibitions, allowing cultural practices to become active parts of the visitor experience rather than static displays.


Scenic backdrops and interpretive display elements were integrated throughout the guided experience, helping support the stories presented to visitors as they moved through the pavilion.

Ambient lighting was also incorporated into the scenic environment, allowing the atmosphere to transition from daytime operation into evening programming while maintaining visual consistency across the installation.

Delivery Highlights


  • Scenic design, fabrication and installation
  • Modular scenic display structures
  • Cultural exhibition environments
  • Date palm weaving demonstration area
  • Gahwa preparation environment
  • Traditional medicine displays
  • Live Ayallah performance area
  • Marine craft exhibition environments
  • Interactive cultural installations
  • Scenic backdrops for guided storytelling
  • Interpretive display elements
  • Integrated ambient lighting
  • Day-to-night scenic environment
  • COP28 pavilion installation
  • Sustainability-led scenic approach


Outcome


The completed UAE Pavilion environment provided visitors with an interactive way to experience Emirati heritage during COP28, bringing traditional practices, performance and cultural storytelling together within a contemporary pavilion setting.


Rather than presenting heritage exclusively through static exhibition displays, the scenic environments supported live artisans, performers and demonstrations, creating opportunities for visitors to engage directly with different aspects of Emirati culture.


The project demonstrates Evolution Scenic's ability to deliver culturally informed exhibition environments where bespoke fabrication, visitor experience and live programming work together to communicate heritage within a major international event.

Project Ecosystem


Evolution Scenic – Scenic design, bespoke fabrication, modular display structures, cultural exhibition environments, performance areas, interpretive scenic elements, integrated lighting and installation.