Dubai Hosts Historic ICOM 2025, Sets New Cultural Benchmark

Dubai wrapped up the historic 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025), held for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event welcomed more than 4,500 participants from around the world, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for culture, creativity, and talent.

The conference, themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” brought together museum leaders, cultural experts, policymakers, and institutions for a week of dialogue, training, and collaboration. Spread across more than 100 sessions and workshops, the programme explored how museums can adapt to social shifts, technological change, and evolving public expectations—while staying rooted in heritage and community values.

One of the most anticipated moments of the final day was the session “The Spirit of Exchange: The UAE’s Unique View on Cultural Diplomacy.” It highlighted how the UAE’s cultural landscape has been shaped by unity, shared growth, and cross-regional support. Speakers underscored that cultural collaboration across the UAE and neighbouring countries continues to drive the region’s creative momentum and global recognition.

Throughout the event, discussions emphasised the expanding role of museums as places of dialogue, learning, and connection. Sessions such as “The Power of Narrative, Heritage, and Youth” explored how cultural institutions can create inclusive environments that empower young voices and reflect diverse stories. Other panels examined post-conflict recovery, innovative museum practices, and the responsibilities that come with curating heritage in a rapidly changing world.

ICOM Dubai 2025 also became a major platform for international partnerships. Delegations from leading cultural organisations in the UAE, GCC, Europe, Africa, and Asia joined networking sessions to exchange expertise and build long-term collaborations. Youth-focused events, specialised workshops, and hands-on training sessions added further depth to the programme, offering professionals practical tools to strengthen their institutions back home.

The closing ceremony marked several significant milestones: the election of Antonio Rodriguez as President of ICOM, the selection of Rotterdam as the next host city for ICOM 2028, and the introduction of the first-ever ICOM Sustainability Award, recognising innovative contributions to sustainable development in the museum sector.

With its global turnout, high-level dialogues, and future-oriented programming, ICOM Dubai 2025 delivered an unprecedented platform for cultural exchange. As participants departed, the event left behind a shared sense of purpose—one that places museums at the heart of community, identity, and the world’s cultural future.