Dubai welcomes the world to largest museum gathering

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai's Crown Prince and the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, attended the opening of the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025) on Wednesday.

Under the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” the global gathering brings together more than 4,500 museum professionals, cultural leaders and decision-makers, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a centre for culture, creativity and knowledge exchange.

The event is taking place in the region for the first time — covering the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.

Sheikh Hamdan and Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, toured the Museum Fair, showcasing innovations from over 100 international institutions.

In her keynote address, Sheikha Latifa said ICOM Dubai reflects a shared belief in the power of culture to shape humanity’s future, describing the conference as "a bridge connecting creativity, vision, and cultures."

She highlighted the UAE’s deep cultural roots and its long history as a crossroads of creativity and exchange.

Running until November 17, ICOM Dubai 2025 will feature keynotes, expert discussions and forums focused on how museums adapt and connect with their communities in a rapidly changing world.

Hamdan bin Mohammed inaugurates the 27th ICOM General Conference (ICOM Dubai 2025) in the presence of Latifa bint Mohammed. Held for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, the event gathers over 4,500 museum professionals and cultural leaders, underscoring… pic.twitter.com/EmpLZCTBUt

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 12, 2025

In her keynote address at ICOM Dubai 2025, Latifa bint Mohammed said that in the coming days, Dubai will become a living masterpiece that brings together creativity, vision, and cultures. It will blend diverse stories and traditions into one vibrant canvas that reflects the… pic.twitter.com/XJ87VgEV4n

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 12, 2025