UAE Pavilion To Present 'Pressure Cooker' Exhibition At Venice Architecture Biennale 2025

The UAE Pavilion is set to present "Pressure Cooker" at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. This event will occur in Venice, Italy, from 10th May to 23rd November 2025. Curated by Azza Aboualam, an Emirati architect and scholar, the exhibition delves into the evolving connection between architecture and food production in the UAE.

Through a research-driven approach, "Pressure Cooker" investigates themes of self-sufficiency and proposes architectural solutions tailored for arid environments. The exhibition builds on archival research and fieldwork to examine existing food-growing infrastructures in the UAE, often found in resource-rich landscapes that are hidden or separated from urban centres.

The project highlights local design solutions developed under conditions of food scarcity over time. These range from traditional methods to advanced technological approaches. By examining these solutions, the exhibition aims to showcase how sustainable design can contribute to climate resilience and better resource management.

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture, stated that the UAE's participation underscores its commitment to fostering innovation in tackling global challenges. He remarked, "This thought-provoking showcase exemplifies the UAE's leadership in advancing architectural solutions tailored for arid environments while promoting a global dialogue on sustainability and self-sufficiency in food."

The National Pavilion continues its collaboration with local institutions like Zayed University and Sharjah Art Foundation. It remains dedicated to supporting cultural practitioners' research within the UAE. This collaboration aims to bridge the UAE's rich cultural heritage with international discourse.

Laila Binbrek, Director of the National Pavilion UAE – La Biennale di Venezia, emphasised this commitment by stating that sharing untold stories on a global stage is crucial for connecting the country's cultural heritage with international discussions.

Innovative Architectural Solutions

Azza Aboualam commented on the exhibition's focus: "Pressure Cooker will exhibit research that speaks to one of the most pressing challenges of our time: food security." The exhibition examines how architecture intersects with innovation and sustainability to address critical issues shaping our future.

The curatorial approach links contemporary research with the UAE's unique cultural identity, offering grounded perspectives on food systems and sustainability. This approach aims to provide technical and imaginative insights into addressing global challenges related to food security.

The exhibition not only highlights innovative architectural solutions but also fosters a dialogue on sustainability and self-sufficiency in food production. By doing so, it positions the UAE as a leader in addressing these critical issues through architecture.

With inputs from WAM