Dubai finalises partnerships to host ICOM Dubai 2025

Dubai is preparing to host the global museum community after Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum oversaw the signing of several strategic partnership agreements for the 27th ICOM General Conference (ICOM Dubai 2025).

Scheduled under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the conference will run from 11–17 November 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The agreements bring together key public and private organisations including du, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Expo City Dubai, Dubai Business Events, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Dubai Airports, and ICOM UAE. Partners will coordinate to deliver smooth operations, sustainable practices and a high-quality experience for delegates.

The signing ceremony took place at Expo City Dubai in the presence of senior officials such as Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Chairperson of the ICOM Dubai 2025 Organising Committee; Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du; Ahmed Bahrozyan of RTA; alongside other leading representatives from Dubai’s sectors.

This will be the first time the International Council of Museums (ICOM) stages its flagship conference in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia region, a significant milestone for the UAE cultural sector. Organisers expect the event to draw more than 4,500 museum professionals, curators, researchers and cultural practitioners worldwide.

The 2025 conference theme, "The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities," will focus on three sub-themes — Intangible Heritage, Youth Power, and New Technologies — examining how museums can adapt, engage younger audiences and adopt digital tools for preservation and storytelling.

Founded in 1946, ICOM represents over 60,000 members across 139 countries, connecting curators, educators, conservators and researchers. The Dubai edition aims to strengthen these international networks and foster greater regional collaboration.

Through these new partnerships, Dubai signals its readiness to host a landmark international gathering that highlights the emirate’s commitment to culture, promotes knowledge exchange and sets benchmarks for collaboration and innovation.