The International Council of Museums (ICOM) has opened its 27th General Conference in Dubai, running from November 11 to 17, 2025. The global gathering brings together museum leaders, curators, educators, and policymakers under the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.”
The conference marks a milestone for the Middle East as Dubai hosts the event for the first time, reflecting the region’s growing role in global cultural dialogue and museum innovation.
Participants from around the world are discussing how museums can adapt to new social, digital, and environmental realities. Sessions explore topics such as AI in curation, sustainable design, digital archiving, audience engagement, and inclusive education.
Organizers said the goal is to create a shared vision for museums that serve as both community anchors and global connectors, helping societies navigate cultural and technological change.
Dubai’s hosting of the conference underscores the UAE’s investment in the cultural sector, including new museum developments and partnerships aimed at promoting heritage and creativity. The city’s growing network of cultural institutions provides a fitting backdrop for discussions about innovation and accessibility in the museum world.
Experts highlight that museums now play a broader role than preserving artifacts — they act as spaces for dialogue, learning, and inclusion. The conference seeks to identify ways to make museum experiences more interactive and relevant to diverse audiences.
The event also includes exhibitions, workshops, and networking sessions designed to connect professionals and share global best practices. Several new initiatives are expected to be launched, encouraging collaboration among museums across continents.
ICOM’s General Conference in Dubai represents a forward-looking step in reimagining how museums contribute to rapidly evolving societies — bridging history, technology, and human connection.
