The UAE is preparing to debut its inaugural national museum guide, detailing every museum throughout the nation to enhance cultural and heritage access.
This initiative, now 80% finalized, is being developed under the guidance of the Ministry of Culture and Youth. The announcement was made during a press event hosted by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
“This guide will be a pivotal resource for all museums in the UAE. It was created through a joint effort between ICOM, the Ministry of Culture and Youth, and four master’s students specializing in culture and museum studies,” stated Nasir Al Darmaki, Chair of ICOM UAE.
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Nasir Al Darmaki
The event heralded the commencement of preparations for the 27th General Conference of ICOM, the largest global assembly of museum professionals, scheduled in Dubai from November 12 to November 17, under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” the conference will be hosted for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region, gathering over 4,500 participants worldwide, including museum leaders, cultural policymakers, and scholars.
Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Chairperson of the ICOM Dubai 2025 Organising Committee, emphasized the conference as a testament to Dubai’s growing role as a hub for global cultural dialogue. “Museums today transcend preservation. They are arenas of participation and innovation reflecting societal evolution,” she remarked.
Hala Badri
ICOM President Emma Nardi highlighted the importance of hosting the event in Dubai, describing the city as “the future in a rapidly evolving society.” She shared insights from her visit to the Museum of the Future, viewing it as an emblem of the fusion between technology and culture.
“This ICOM edition is not only a first in the region but also a call to the next generation. The conference’s success hinges on our smart use of technology to unite communities,” she stated.
Emma Nardi
Nardi also announced that ICOM will present its inaugural Sustainable Practices in Museums Award at the conference’s gala dinner in Dubai, honoring institutions excelling in environmental and cultural sustainability. She mentioned the launch of a new initiative titled ICOM for Peace, aiming to unite global museum communities in fostering dialogue amidst worldwide conflicts.
Medea S. Ekner, Director General of ICOM, noted that the conference will delve into how museums can serve as sources of inspiration and education in a world driven by innovation and artificial intelligence. “Museums have evolved from being mere repositories to becoming spaces of engagement, creativity, and exchange,” she commented.
Medea S. Ekner
