The Sultanate of Oman proudly announces its participation in the 19th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia with its pavilion, Traces. This exhibition exploresthe 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 Tracesisthe Sablah, a communal space that haslong 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.