The 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025) concluded in Dubai. Held for the first time in West Asia the conference gathered more than 4,500 participants, including museum directors, cultural policymakers, academics and heritage specialists, reinforcing Dubai’s stature as a global cultural hub.
The final day featured a session on cultural diplomacy with Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State. Sheikha Latifa underscored the UAE’s shared cultural roots, stating “the strength of the UAE lies in our unity,” while Al Kaabi highlighted the practical impact of cultural diplomacy through partnerships with UNESCO, ICCROM and regional institutions.
Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, described museums as critical spaces for dialogue and engagement, stressing the importance of integrating youth in cultural institutions. His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President and Chancellor of UAE University, said museums are “living institutions” that preserve memory and drive innovation, supported by national strategies that strengthen cultural identity.
The closing ceremony announced Antonio Rodriguez as ICOM President, Nasir Al Darmaki as Vice President and Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, CEO of Qatar Museums, as President of ICOM Arab. Rotterdam was confirmed as host of ICOM 2028. The inaugural ICOM Sustainability Award was presented to Kaye Hall and Jamie Brown. The conference concluded after more than 100 sessions and workshops, marking a major platform for global exchange in the museum sector.