Dubai To Host The 27th General Conference Of The International Council Of Museums In November 2025

The ICOM Dubai Organising Committee is preparing to host the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) from 11 to 17 November 2025. This event, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, marks the first time the conference will be held in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region. The theme for this gathering is ‘The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities’.

H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, will deliver a keynote address at the opening ceremony. Her speech will set the stage for discussions on how museums can adapt to changing societal needs while preserving cultural heritage. The conference aims to explore museums' evolving roles in cultural progress and memory preservation.

The conference will feature prominent speakers such as Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation; Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture; and Noura Al Kaabi, UAE Minister of State. Other notable figures include Rakan Al Touq from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture and Krista Pikkat from UNESCO. Renowned artists like El Anatsui and architects like Sumayya Vally will also share insights.

Interactive sessions, forums, and masterclasses are planned throughout the week. These activities will highlight youth's role in shaping museums' futures and emphasize safeguarding intangible heritage. Additionally, they will explore how innovation and technology can enhance public engagement with museums.

Founded in 1946, ICOM is a leading global organisation dedicated to museum preservation and development. It serves as a collaborative platform for museum professionals worldwide, representing over 60,000 members across 139 countries and territories. ICOM supports nearly 20,000 museums globally by fostering knowledge-sharing among its members.

In 2021, ICOM-UAE successfully bid to host the 2025 conference in Dubai with support from Dubai Culture, Dubai Municipality, and other local entities. The UAE was chosen due to its global influence, commitment to cultural preservation, and dedication to nurturing a creative economy.

Collaborative Efforts

The organisation of ICOM Dubai 2025 involves partnerships with various entities such as du, Expo City Dubai, Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Government of Dubai Media Office, Dubai Media Incorporated, Dubai Business Events, Dubai Airports, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, and Dubai Police.

This collaboration underscores the UAE's commitment to hosting an impactful event that highlights its role as a cultural hub. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from different sectors, the conference aims to foster dialogue on museums' future roles within rapidly changing communities worldwide.

With inputs from WAM