International Council of Museums Meets in the UAE

Held under the theme of "The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities", the 27th ICOM General Conference is taking place in Dubai between 11 and 17 November 2025, the first time it has occurred within the MENA region.

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) has over 57,000 members in 129 countries. Established in 1946, it is the leading global organisation dedicated to the development, preservation, and promotion of museums and the museum profession. The ICOM General Conference takes place every three years and fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing across continents, serving as a platform for the international museum community, including curators, educators, researchers, directors, and conservators. ICOM’s mission is centered around the belief that museums have a vital role to play in shaping a better future and more inclusive world.

Excitingly for the MENA region, this year’s conference is taking place in Dubai, one of the centres of the MENA art scene. "This
milestone reflects a shared commitment to culture, innovation, and the transformative power of knowledge, bringing together museum professionals, cultural practitioners, and creative communities from around the world”, says Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and the Chairperson of ICOM Dubai 2025 Organising Committee, “Museums play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage, fostering dialogue, and connecting communities. They serve as platforms for celebrating diverse identities, amplifying underrepresented voices, and promoting inclusivity in an ever-changing world.”

Amongst many impressive speakers are Abhirami Suresh from Art Jameel, Adib Dada from Theotherdada in Lebanon, and Ithra's Lujain Abahussain. Panels will discuss topics like AI in museums, women and youth empowerment, and urban heritage and representation in rapidly changing cities.

The conference is bringing together over 4,500 participants from across the globe. Throughout the multi-day event, there will be over 400 speakers, 10 keynote sessions, and 100 dialogue forums addressing topics at the forefront of the museum sector at the Dubai World Trade Centre under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Rules of Dubai.

“Our wonderful host for this event is the magnificent city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, which perfectly complements the theme of this year’s conference: ‘The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities’”, says Emma Nardi, President of ICOM, “Together we will explore this broad theme through three very topical sub-themes: Intangible Heritage, Youth Power and New Technologies.” Nasir Al Darmaki, Chair of ICOM UAE adds: "Our nation celebrates its rich diversity, recognising the strength that comes from engaging with diverse communities and perspectives. ICOM UAE connects this diverse landscape, uniting professionals across the country and facilitating the exchange of ideas. From ancient history to contemporary art, our museums tell the stories of the UAE as well as its connections to the world. We actively engage with a diverse range of institutions and individuals, ensuring accessibility and promoting rich and inclusive cultural narratives.”

In our ever-changing world, ICOM Dubai 2025 seeks to address how museums across the globe can react to our new way of living. For the MENA region, this is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of global dialogue on the evolving role of museums in society in an era of constant transformation.