DUBAI: 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 is 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 event reinforces Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a hub for talent.
According to Emirates News Agency, 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 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 highlighted the fundamental role of culture in Dubai’s development, establishing it as a hub for talent and dialogue on the future of the museum sector. She emphasized that hosting the ‘ICOM 2024 International Symposium’ is a landmark achievement reflecting the emirate’s cultural identity and ambition.
The ‘ICOM 2024 International Symposium’ signifies the beginning of a journey that will culminate in November 2025 with a gathering of over 4,000 museum specialists from around the globe. The event aims to provide a platform for dialogue and partnerships, exploring innovative approaches to societal transformations and the future of museums. Sheikha Latifa noted the integral role museums play in Dubai’s identity, serving as pillars of civilisation, knowledge hubs, heritage guardians, and gateways to the future.
Sheikha Latifa also stressed the importance of international collaboration in advancing the
cultural sector, noting that museums must adapt to global developments. She reinforced the responsibility to ensure museums remain dynamic spaces that evolve while fostering community belonging.
The need to embrace innovation and incorporate modern technologies to address social challenges and strengthen museums’ roles was also emphasized. The event featured sessions and keynote speeches discussing cultural identities and the future of museums. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, opened the programme, noting ICOM’s role in connecting museum professionals globally.
Dr. Emma Nardi, President of ICOM, praised the commitment of ICOM members and highlighted the significance of the ICOM General Conference. She mentioned that each conference provides a unique experience shaped by global contexts and the host country’s perspectives.