Sheikh Hamdan Opens ICOM Dubai 2025 Highlighting the Future of Museums

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince and the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, officially opened the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025) on Wednesday.

Under the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” the landmark event has drawn over 4,500 museum professionals, cultural leaders, and decision-makers from around the world, positioning Dubai as a global hub for culture, creativity, and knowledge exchange. This is the first time the conference is being held in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region.

Sheikh Hamdan, accompanied by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, toured the Museum Fair, which features innovations from over 100 international institutions. The fair highlights how museums are embracing technology and new strategies to engage with communities in a rapidly evolving world.

In her keynote address, Sheikha Latifa emphasized the UAE’s cultural legacy and described ICOM Dubai 2025 as “a bridge connecting creativity, vision, and cultures.” She highlighted the power of culture to shape humanity’s future and showcased the UAE’s historical role as a crossroads for creativity and exchange.

The conference, running until November 17, will feature keynote speeches, expert discussions, and forums aimed at exploring how museums can adapt and strengthen their role in society. Topics include technological innovation, sustainable practices, and strategies for fostering inclusivity in cultural spaces.

ICOM Dubai 2025 reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to cultural leadership and the importance of museums as spaces for education, creativity, and global dialogue. The event has set the stage for cross-cultural collaboration and a shared vision for the future of museums worldwide.