KUALA LUMPUR: The International Council of Museums (ICOM) Dubai 2025 has concluded its historic edition, marking the first time the event was hosted in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, underscoring Dubai’s role as a global hub for culture, creativity and innovation.
Themed ‘The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities’, the event saw participation of over 4,500 museum professionals, cultural leaders, and decision-makers worldwide, with more than 100 sessions taking place throughout the event, according to a statement.
The final day featured key discussions, including the session ‘Cultural Diplomacy from an Emirati Perspective: Bridges of Connection and Dialogue’, led by Dubai Culture Chairperson, Sheikha Latifa binti Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, highlighting the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) cultural unity.
The conference also included the session ‘The Power of Narrative, Heritage and Youth’, featuring Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem binti Ibrahim Al Hashimy, who discussed the role of museums as vital platforms for dialogue and mutual understanding.
In addition, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President, Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, in his keynote, talked about the challenges museums face in preserving the essence of creativity while adapting to change, stressing that museums are not just observers but active participants in societal transformation.
The closing event also witnessed ICOM’s new leadership, with Antonio Rodriguez elected as president, while Nasir Al Darmaki was appointed as vice president.
The conference also marked the official handover of ICOM’s flag to the City of Rotterdam, which will host ICOM 2028.
ICOM Dubai 2025 also celebrated the inaugural ICOM Sustainability Award, presented to Kaye Hall of the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, and Jamie Brown from the University of St Andrews for their project ‘Shared Island Stories Between Scotland and the Caribbean’. – BERNAMA
