The National Pavilion UAE has announced an open call for concept proposals to curate the UAE’s participation in the 20th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, taking place from May to November 2027 in Venice, Italy. This opportunity invites architects, artists, designers, and scholars from the UAE and across the MENASA region to share untold stories within the nation’s architectural discourse.
Curatorial Focus: Local Roots, Global Dialogue
Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that align with the Biennale’s mission of promoting critical exchange in architecture. Proposals must present a strong curatorial narrative that resonates with both local and global audiences. Concepts should reflect on the built environment, heritage, and future possibilities, while drawing connections to previous UAE exhibitions.
The open call is open to UAE citizens, residents, and international applicants with significant regional expertise. Individuals or teams may apply, but at least one member of a team must reside in the UAE.
Platform for Innovation and Research
Angela Migally, Executive Director of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation, which commissions the National Pavilion UAE, said:
“This open call is an opportunity for curators based in the UAE to engage with global architectural discourse through research grounded in local context.”
Laila Binbrek, Director of the National Pavilion UAE, added:
“We continue to invite global and local voices to explore architecture’s role in addressing future challenges. This platform is about elevating UAE-based research with international relevance.”
Application Timeline and Resources
- Deadline to apply: 30 September 2025 (midnight UAE time, GMT+4)
- Eligibility: Open to individuals and teams with UAE or MENASA ties
- Information sessions: To be held in Abu Dhabi and Dubai (dates to be announced)
- Second round: Finalists will be invited to submit a full proposal
Interested applicants can access submission guidelines and more details at the official website: https://nationalpavilionuae.org
About the National Pavilion UAE
The National Pavilion UAE showcases untold stories from the Emirates across both art and architecture through La Biennale di Venezia. Since its first participation in 2010, it has used this global platform to highlight the region’s cultural, historical, and architectural depth.
Its current exhibition, Pressure Cooker (curated by Azza Aboualam), examines the links between food security, climate change, and architecture, and is on view until 23 November 2025.
The Pavilion operates as an independent, non-profit initiative commissioned by the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation, with support from the UAE Ministry of Culture.