Mansoor Bin Mohammed Inaugurates ICOM Dubai 2025 At Expo City, Celebrating Cultural Heritage
The 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025) was inaugurated with grandeur. H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum graced the event, marking its first occurrence in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The ceremony took place under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The opening ceremony unfolded at Expo City Dubai's Al Wasl Plaza, renowned for its vast 360-degree projection surface. A vibrant theatrical and musical production celebrated Dubai’s history through immersive projections and performances. This artistic showcase highlighted Dubai's journey from its founding in 1833 to its current status as a cultural hub.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa praised the collaboration between Dubai Culture and Expo City Dubai for creating an artistic display that captured Dubai’s essence. "I take great pride in Dubai’s journey and its story — one that deserves to be told," she stated, emphasising the city's belief in culture's transformative power. The event celebrated Dubai’s openness and cultural exchange.
The performance, titled ‘This is Dubai,’ depicted the city’s evolution through four acts. It began with the Al Bu Falasah tribe's arrival at Dubai Creek in 1833, followed by an era of pearl diving and fishing. The narrative continued with Dubai’s growing openness to global cultures, culminating in a portrayal of unity and diversity.
Directed by Amna Abdullah Abu Alhoul, the show featured contributions from Emirati talents like poet Ali Al Khawar and composer Fayez Al Saeed. Fatma Al Hashemi delivered an operatic performance, while Huda Al Fahad narrated as the ‘Voice of Dubai.’ Reem Abdullah Al Ghaith directed cultural content.
The production involved over 100 hours of rehearsals and extensive historical research into Gulf maritime treaties and regional records. This meticulous preparation highlighted Dubai’s transformation from a coastal settlement to a thriving trade centre, showcasing its enduring connection to the sea.
Technological Marvel
Al Wasl Plaza’s dome became a visual masterpiece using 252 Christie D4K40-RGB laser projectors and over 813 lighting units for an immersive experience. Supported by advanced sound systems, traditional Emirati rhythms blended with contemporary orchestral compositions to reflect Dubai’s harmony between heritage and innovation.
The event was organised with partners like Expo City Dubai, du, and the Roads and Transport Authority. It celebrated ICOM Dubai 2025 delegates, embodying Dubai’s legacy of creativity and collaboration. The performance illustrated how culture serves as a universal language uniting people globally.
Attendees included notable figures such as H.H. Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; H.H. Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum; Prince Rashid bin Abdulaziz bin Saud Al Saud; Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi; Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan; Dr. Emma Nardi; alongside Directors General and senior officials.
With inputs from WAM
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