DUBAI, 12th November, 2024 (WAM) – H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), today inaugurated the ‘ICOM 2024 International Symposium’ at the Etihad Museum. Organised by Dubai Culture in collaboration with the International Council of Museums (ICOM) UAE, the Symposium forms an integral part of the preparations for the 27th ICOM General Conference: ICOM Dubai 2025, which the city will host for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. Under the theme ‘The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.’, the milestone event reinforces Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.
The Symposium’s sessions explored three sub-themes, including safeguarding intangible heritage, empowering youth, and harnessing new technologies. Discussions centred on navigating rapid global changes, providing a remarkable platform for dialogue and knowledge-sharing among ICOM’s international committees and a diverse group of museum experts from local and international communities.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said: “Culture has been a fundamental pillar of Dubai’s journey, establishing it as a vibrant hub for talent and a leading centre for global dialogue on the future of the museum sector. Dubai’s hosting of the ‘ICOM 2024 International Symposium’ is a landmark achievement that reflects the emirate’s cultural identity, ambition, and commitment to cultural leadership on the global stage.”
“The ‘ICOM 2024 International Symposium’ marks the start of a significant journey that will culminate in November 2025 with a landmark gathering of over 4,000 museum specialists and experts from across the globe. The event will provide a unique platform for in-depth dialogue and constructive partnerships, allowing us to explore innovative approaches to the transformations impacting our societies and the future of museums. Museums are integral to Dubai’s unique identity, serving as pillars of civilisation, hubs of knowledge and innovation, guardians of heritage, and gateways to the future. They provide spaces for learning, inspiration, and meaningful exchange, bridging generations and strengthening bonds within our diverse communities,” H.H. said.
Sheikha Latifa also highlighted the crucial importance of international collaboration in driving progress within the cultural sector, noting that change is constant and museums must adapt to global developments. “It is our responsibility to ensure that museums remain dynamic, culturally grounded spaces that evolve with the times while fostering a sense of belonging within the community.”
She also underpinned the need to embrace innovation and incorporate modern technologies to address contemporary social challenges, strengthen the role of museums in the cultural and creative landscape, and ensure they continue to inspire and educate future generations.
The event agenda featured a series of sessions and keynote speeches, offering enriching discussions and exchanges of ideas on preserving and exploring cultural identities. It also addressed key opportunities and challenges shaping the future of museums. The programme opened with remarks from Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, who noted that ICOM provides a vital platform connecting museum professionals, experts, and cultural leaders worldwide.
“Through this conference, we aim to foster dialogue, exchange knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and envision the future of museums as connectors of communities to heritage, culture, and identity. Together, we will reimagine innovation in the museum sector and explore new technologies emerging from the digital transformation,” said Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi.
Dr. Emma Nardi, President of ICOM, praised the commitment of ICOM members, highlighting the significance of the ICOM General Conference. She stated: “While each conference centres on museums, every event offers a unique experience shaped by global contexts and the perspectives of the host country"