Abu Dhabi Celebrates Museum Heritage at the ICOM Conference

Abu Dhabi, UAE: His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), highlighted the emirate's enduring commitment to establishing a premier museum landscape during the UAE’s hosting of the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in Dubai.

Themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” this significant conference took place for the first time in the Arab world, uniting museum leaders and experts from all over.

“We firmly believe in the lasting significance of museums,” stated HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak. “When museums authentically engage with their communities, they become more than just cultural sites; they evolve into catalysts for opportunity, enhancing human connection, driving societal progress, and empowering future generations.”

In recent years, Abu Dhabi’s cultural scene has flourished, with key museums on the brink of completion. The Zayed National Museum and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi— the first of its kind in the region—will soon open in the Saadiyat Cultural District, complementing existing landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, while the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is also forthcoming.

HE Al Mubarak emphasized that Abu Dhabi’s museum strategy encompasses a comprehensive vision that goes beyond mere construction, underscoring the vital role of museums in encouraging social cohesion and genuine engagement. “Each museum in the Saadiyat Cultural District has a unique mission, yet collectively they form a synergistic ecosystem that bolsters national identity, enriches civic life, and accelerates social progress,” he noted.

Additionally, museums in Abu Dhabi create inclusive environments for the 200 nationalities residing in the country, providing avenues for creative careers and economic opportunities. “For years, Arab culture has been underrepresented in global narratives. Our museums ensure these crucial stories are shared globally,” HE Al Mubarak concluded.

By hosting ICOM in the UAE, Abu Dhabi has offered a unique platform for Gulf and Arab museum professionals to engage with their international counterparts, reaffirming the emirate’s dedication to influencing the future of museum practices and promoting a unified national cultural agenda.