Saudi Arabia is showcasing a unique tribute to its female trailblazers at Expo 2025 Osaka, celebrating the achievements of Saudi women through the art of manga.
In a vibrant and visually compelling display, the walls of the Saudi Pavilion’s courtyard are adorned with manga illustrations that narrate the stories of influential Saudi women who have made their mark in diverse fields.
Read: Saudi Arabia’s Expo 2025 Osaka pavilion attracts 1 million visitors in first 70 days
Manga brings powerful stories to life
The visual display uses Japanese manga — a beloved and globally recognized art form — to tell the stories of three pioneering Saudi women.
By blending Saudi narratives with Japanese illustration, the pavilion creates a powerful cultural dialogue that resonates with both local and international visitors. These illustrated stories are designed to inspire future generations while paying homage to the kingdom’s evolving identity.
The initiative not only reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to women’s empowerment but also its effort to present its transformation through creative storytelling.
Celebrating Saudi women leaders
The manga wall features the stories of Rania Moualla, founder and president of the ZADK Culinary Academy, Saudi Arabia’s premier institute for culinary arts. Her story reflects innovation in food education and leadership in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Mashael Al-Shamimry, an aerospace engineer and founder of Mashael Aerospace, who made history as the first Saudi woman to join NASA. Her journey exemplifies ambition, scientific achievement, and a pioneering spirit in the aerospace sector.
Jumana Al-Rashed, CEO of the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG) and board chair of the Red Sea Film Foundation, who is shaping the future of Saudi media and film. Her leadership highlights the kingdom’s drive to promote creative industries and media excellence.
Each narrative celebrates the determination, skill, and success of Saudi women who continue to break boundaries and lead across multiple sectors.
A platform for cultural exchange
Beyond honoring individual stories, the manga display is part of the pavilion’s broader mission to foster dialogue with other cultures and showcase the kingdom’s ongoing transformation.
The Saudi Pavilion presents these stories not only as national achievements but also as part of a shared global conversation about diversity, empowerment, and innovation.
This artistic initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision of creating a more inclusive society while engaging with global audiences through culture and creativity.
Over 700 cultural events at the Saudi Pavilion
The manga wall is just one feature of the kingdom’s dynamic presence at Expo 2025 Osaka. The Saudi Pavilion is set to host more than 700 events, offering visitors an immersive cultural journey through Saudi heritage, arts, and traditions.
With interactive exhibits, performances, and cultural programming, the pavilion provides a comprehensive look into Saudi Arabia’s rich and diverse identity, celebrating the past while highlighting the innovations driving its future.
By sharing the inspiring stories of its women leaders through the lens of manga, Saudi Arabia’s Expo 2025 pavilion bridges cultures, champions progress, and highlights the kingdom’s deep investment in empowerment and creative expression.
