DCT Abu Dhabi Hosts Inaugural Digital Heritage Forum For Cultural Preservation

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has introduced the Digital Heritage Forum, an international event focused on cultural preservation through technology. Scheduled from 3rd to 5th November at the Cultural Foundation, this exclusive gathering will host 250 participants, including 132 international speakers and representatives from 128 leading global institutions.

The Forum aims to create a collaborative environment for experts in digital documentation, humanities, and cultural heritage technology. This initiative highlights Abu Dhabi's commitment to bridging the gap between heritage and technology sectors. It seeks to foster dialogue, partnerships, and innovative approaches for preserving global cultural heritage in the digital era.

Over three days, attendees will engage in keynotes, sessions, and tech showcases. Five keynote speakers include Prof. Simon See from NVIDIA and Dr. Najwa Aaraj from the Technology Innovation Institute. They will share insights alongside Prof. Douglas Pritchard, Prof. Jon Adams, and Prof. Maurizio Forte.

Participants can attend panel discussions, lightning talks, case studies, and live demonstrations across five thematic tracks. These sessions offer diverse learning opportunities and encourage knowledge exchange among attendees.

The Forum includes special events showcasing technology's role in cultural engagement. "Gaudi, The Atelier of the Divine" by Geodon Experiences offers a virtual reality journey into Antoni Gaudí's creative world. Additionally, "Sounds of Freedom" presents an immersive exhibition exploring heritage through sound.

A closing sound performance titled "agami" by Mezzoforte promises to leave a lasting impact on participants. These events demonstrate how technology can transform cultural experiences for audiences worldwide.

The Closing Event Panel features experts like Mohamed Al Jneibi from Red Dunes Games and Chao Tayiana Maina from African Digital Heritage. They will discuss various aspects of digital heritage alongside Dr. David Mitchell from Historic Environment Scotland and teamLab members Takashi Kudo and Sakurako Naka.

This panel aims to generate practical recommendations for professionals globally on digital heritage practices. It underscores Abu Dhabi’s leadership in research and application within this domain.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani of DCT Abu Dhabi stated: "Launching the Digital Heritage Forum marks an important step in our ongoing mission to safeguard and promote culture in all its forms." He emphasised Abu Dhabi’s unique position where heritage meets digital innovation.

The Forum seeks to advance global dialogue while equipping future generations with tools to protect their heritage sustainably in the digital age.

This event solidifies Abu Dhabi’s role as a leader in both research and practical application within the digital heritage domain. It aims to leave a legacy of collaborative working groups, innovative tools, and impactful projects worldwide.

With inputs from WAM