UAE Showcases Cultural Unity at ICOM Dubai 2025

Dubai set the stage for one of the most compelling cultural conversations of the year as the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025) brought global museum leaders, cultural experts and policymakers together for a landmark gathering. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event highlighted how the UAE positions culture at the heart of diplomacy, community and future development.

A key moment of the conference was a high-level panel titled “The Spirit of Exchange: The UAE’s Unique View on Cultural Diplomacy”, featuring Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi. The discussion explored how the UAE’s cultural landscape—rooted in unity, diversity and openness—continues to shape the region’s creative momentum.

A Nation Built on Cultural Unity

Opening the session, Her Highness emphasised that the UAE’s identity has always been grounded in unity across its seven emirates. She reflected on how cultural and national ties have grown together over generations, forming a foundation that fuels collective progress.

She described the region’s success as a shared journey, noting that achievements in one emirate or neighbouring country naturally uplift the entire Gulf’s creative ecosystem. Her remarks painted a picture of a region moving forward together, driven by cultural pride and collaboration.

Creators at the Centre of Growth

Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi underlined the vital role of creators who move freely across the UAE’s diverse cultural map, contributing to research, innovation and artistic development. She stressed that cultural diplomacy is not just a concept but an active practice supported through long-term partnerships and capacity-building, including impactful regional projects.

Diversity as a Living Identity

The discussion also examined the UAE’s approach to multiculturalism. Her Highness noted that the country’s distinctiveness lies not just in its diverse population, but in how openly and naturally people live and express their cultural identities. She recalled how earlier generations embodied this openness, creating a legacy of coexistence now shaping the UAE’s modern character.

People-First Cultural Strategy

A significant portion of the panel focused on governance and cultural development. Her Highness explained how Dubai’s cultural strategy is shaped through collaboration between leadership and the creative community. Agility, she said, allows policies and initiatives to evolve based on real-time needs and insights.

This model ensures that people—creatives, families, youth and visitors—remain at the centre of cultural planning. The UAE’s cultural institutions, she noted, thrive because they reflect the needs and identities of the people who engage with them.

Museums Rooted in Authenticity

The conversation then turned to the role of museums and how the UAE is helping define their future. Her Highness highlighted the importance of balancing global perspectives with authentic cultural storytelling. She stressed that while young generations are globally connected, they also seek deeper understanding of their roots—an essential role museums continue to play in the UAE.

Public–Private Cultural Collaboration

Dubai’s expanding cultural landscape includes strong partnerships with the private sector. Her Highness explained that this cooperation is essential in creating museums and creative hubs that feel genuinely owned by the community. With clear direction and open collaboration, private entities have become active contributors to cultural growth and innovation.

A Shared Cultural Future

As the conference came to a close, the session delivered a clear message: cultural diplomacy works best when nations respect one another’s journeys and move forward collectively. The UAE’s approach—people-driven, collaborative, and rooted in openness—left a lasting impression on delegates.

Her Highness ended with a hope that all participants carry with them a memorable experience of Dubai’s culture, community spirit and welcoming identity—an impression that reflects the UAE’s enduring commitment to cultural connection and global understanding.