UAE–Saudi Cultural Alliance Moves Forward at ICOM Dubai

Dubai’s global cultural stage grew even stronger at the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025), where Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met His Excellency Rakan Al Touq to reinforce a growing regional cultural partnership. The event, held for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, brought both nations into the spotlight as they discussed shared ambitions shaping the future of culture in the region.

The meeting highlighted the significant cultural progress made by the UAE and Saudi Arabia in recent years. Both sides reviewed how their museum ecosystems have expanded, from new institutions to major heritage preservation projects, and explored opportunities to work more closely on developing national talent in the cultural and creative fields.

Discussions also focused on building stronger pathways for collaboration—whether through joint initiatives, knowledge exchange, or coordinated efforts to protect tangible and intangible heritage. There was a shared understanding that culture is increasingly central to sustainable development and a core driver of national identity.

Sheikha Latifa reinforced this message by underlining the importance of deepening UAE–Saudi cooperation to support the growth, resilience and vitality of the cultural sector. Her remarks echoed the broader theme of ICOM Dubai 2025: preparing museums and cultural institutions for rapidly changing communities, while ensuring heritage remains preserved and accessible.

The meeting added momentum to a regional cultural vision where the UAE and Saudi Arabia stand not just as neighbouring nations, but as partners driving a larger cultural renaissance across the Arab world.