Key Takeaways:
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Dubai will host the 27th ICOM General Conference from 11 to 17 November 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
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It is the first time the global museum summit is held in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.
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Over 4,500 international museum professionals and cultural leaders are expected to attend.
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Themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” the conference will explore innovation, digitization, and inclusivity in heritage institutions.
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The event aligns with Dubai’s strategic push to become a global cultural and knowledge hub.
A Landmark Cultural Gathering in the UAE
Dubai has been officially confirmed as the host city for the 27th International Council of Museums (ICOM) General Conference, one of the most influential gatherings in the global cultural and museum sector. Held every three years, the conference brings together thousands of experts, curators, researchers, policymakers, and innovators from around the world.
The 2025 edition, themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre and multiple cultural venues across the city. The conference is supported by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, with a vision to create long-term institutional partnerships and knowledge exchange.
Why It Matters for Dubai
Dubai’s selection over competitors like Stockholm and Kazan is a testament to the emirate’s cultural rise. Key reasons include:
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The growth of major cultural institutions like Etihad Museum, Museum of the Future, Al Shindagha Museum, and the upcoming Mohammed Bin Rashid Library.
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The city’s robust infrastructure, multilingual accessibility, and status as a global travel hub.
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Strong alignment with UAE’s Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) Strategy 2031, which aims to boost creative sector GDP contribution to 5%.
The event is expected to create long-term benefits through academic collaboration, museum innovation, and tourism revenue.
What to Expect During the Conference
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Panels and keynote talks on museum digitization, sustainability, decolonization, and youth engagement
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Workshops and labs in heritage tech, VR, and AI applications in exhibitions
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Side events hosted across Dubai museums and cultural districts
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Policy forums on museum ethics, inclusivity, and crisis preparedness (e.g., heritage in conflict zones)
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Networking platforms for institutions to form regional and global partnerships
With delegates from over 119 countries, the event is expected to put Dubai on the map as a pioneer of museum innovation in non-Western regions.
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