Hamdan bin Mohammed witnesses the launch of a conference"ICOM Dubai 2025"
DUBAI, 12 November / WAM / His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai, witnessed the launch of the activities of the twenty-seventh General Conference of the International Council of Museums “ICOM Dubai 2025”, which is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, and which Dubai is hosting for the first time in the Middle East region. Africa and South Asia, under the slogan “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Societies”, in the presence of more than 4,500 participants including museum experts, cultural leaders and decision-makers from around the world, which reflects Dubai’s leadership and status as a global center for culture, an incubator for creativity and a forum for talent.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, accompanied by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairwoman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, visited the “Museum Exhibition”, which showcases a series of pioneering projects, technologies and innovations presented by more than 100 institutions from around the world. Their Highnesses toured throughout the exhibition and viewed a group of interactive experiences aimed at enabling visitors to explore the latest practices in the vital museum sector, in addition to building partnerships and promoting Communication between institutions, experts and decision makers.
The launch of the conference was attended, alongside their Highnesses, by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, President of Dubai Airports, Supreme Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, and Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa.
Al Nahyan, CEO of Frontier25, and a number of ministers and senior officials.
Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairwoman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, delivered the keynote speech for the international conference, which is the largest global gathering of specialists in the museum sector, stressing that this meeting is not just a historical event, but rather the embodiment of a common vision that believes in the role of culture in building the future of humanity.
She pointed out that Dubai’s hosting of the global event represents an acknowledgment of its pioneering role on the global cultural scene and said: “This exceptional moment reflects our identity… and commemorates our mark… and brings back our memories of this journey that we began with an ambitious vision whose goals were achieved… Let history witness that on this day, Dubai hosted for the first time in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region this global gathering, as it is a pivotal station in the emirate’s journey that celebrates culture as an essential pillar.” “For progress, and a compass for shaping a brighter future for humanity.”
She added: “I extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, whose unique vision guided our steps and was a beacon that lit the way for us towards this day, which is a bright station in the journey of the Emirates… a nation that believes that progress is not measured by monuments, buildings, and skyscrapers, but by the values that we adhere to, the ambitions and ideas that we share, and the future.” What we create together.”
Her Highness pointed out that this day is not just a passing moment, but rather a meeting between multiple worlds, and she said: “We meet, and each of us carries his inspiring story… and the stories of his society, his country, its culture, its heritage, and its museums… We come together so that our stories meet… and are told… and intertwined… to form a living archive that reflects human experiences in all their diversity and beauty… and confirms that culture, in its essence, is an ongoing dialogue between… Past, present and future.”
In a creative metaphor that reflects the beauty of the meeting of cultures in the heart of Dubai; Her Highness said: “In the coming days, Dubai will create a multi-material painting. It will be the bridge that connects creativity, visions, and cultures to each other. It will bring together diverse narratives in one work that includes a rich tapestry of different traditions, cultures, and styles. To present one of the most beautiful paintings that reflects the essence of culture and humanity. Together we celebrate a more beautiful world that flourishes with the meeting of cultures.. the connection of minds.. and the sharing of creativity.”
Her Highness pointed out that the journey to work on “AECOM Dubai 2025” was not easy, and the path was not paved along the way, “which taught us that patience, listening and flexibility are not just values, but rather tools that create progress and pave the way towards achieving the vision that we believe in.”
Her Highness stressed that the greatest dialogues begin with questions, expressing her happiness with the repeated question about the extent of the ability of a young city like Dubai to lead this profound global dialogue about human heritage, because it provided the opportunity for the emirate to tell its story in all its details and richness, pointing out that this land has never been far from creativity and cultural exchange. For thousands of years, civilizations have flourished on it that created and innovated, exchanged trade and knowledge, and established the roots of a human movement. It continues to this day, and from this ancient legacy, Dubai derived its presence and leadership, confirming that culture was and will remain the core of its identity, and indicated that Dubai’s hosting of the “AECOM 2025” conference is an extension of a historical procession of inspiration and humanitarian giving.
Her Highness recalled the efforts of ancestors who had always been protectors of intangible heritage long before this term was coined and appeared, as they innovated to meet their needs, and shared what they made out of belonging.
She recalled the story of the union of the seven emirates, which was not only a political union; Rather, it was cultural above all, and a belief that a society connected to its cultural roots finds in its heritage something that unites and strengthens it, and in its identity pulsates the energy of renewal and building the future.
Her Highness stated that Dubai’s hosting of “ICOM Dubai 2025” is a unique opportunity to highlight the rich cultural heritage of our region and its continuing contributions in the fields of culture and creativity, stressing that Dubai did not celebrate this moment alone. In various parts of the Arab world, the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, communities felt the same pride that the people of Dubai felt, because this moment does not belong to one city, but rather represents a collective identity and an extended civilization.
Her Highness stressed that the theme of this year’s conference, “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Societies,” could not have found a home that expresses its meaning more deeply and clearly than Dubai, with its diversity that resembles the spirit of “ICOM Dubai 2025,” which seeks to bring together people, ideas, and visions from all over the world to discuss and design the future of museums together, noting that this conference is an invitation to contemplate and think about how museums maintain their mission and essence, while at the same time being able to develop and keep pace with the needs of museums. Its communities.
Her Highness concluded her speech by issuing an invitation in which she said: “I invite you, as you explore our museums, galleries, and heritage neighborhoods, to look beyond the limits of sight… and to listen to the stories behind the walls and buildings… and to the stories that people have crafted with their souls, dreams, and imagination. Let us continue this journey together… a journey of communication and inspiration.”
His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, delivered a speech in which he pointed out that AECOM provides a unique platform that brings together specialists and cultural leaders under one umbrella. He said: “Dubai’s hosting of the World Conference expresses the UAE’s commitment to developing the museum sector, which is evident in the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Museum of the Future in Dubai, and the Al Ain Museum, which was recently reopened as the first museum in the country, in addition to 17 museums hosted by the Emirate of Sharjah, and with the opening of the Natural History Museum and the Zayed National Museum approaching.” In Abu Dhabi before the end of this year, the UAE continues to develop this sector and inspire communities.”
He reviewed the most prominent initiatives aimed at strengthening the status of museums in the country, including the launch of the “National Register of Antiquities,” which is a pivotal platform for documenting archaeological discoveries, preserving them and preserving them for future generations, and the country’s success in including 16 items on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage, pointing out that the UAE’s win of membership in the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO reflects the importance of its role as a reliable partner in the global cultural community.
For her part, Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State, indicated in her speech that this event is an opportunity to recall the role of museums and heritage in a rapidly changing world.
She said: “Museums are not only structures for preserving the past, but rather spaces that launch dialogue and chart a new path for understanding. We emphasize through this conference that preserving heritage is not limited to museums only. Historical and religious sites, ancient neighborhoods, and traditional markets are considered living museums that pulse with the memory of peoples, and protecting them does not mean preserving antiquities only, but preserving wisdom and creativity.” She added: “Preserving heritage constitutes an engine for economic and social development, and reviving a cultural site or establishing a new museum contributes to creating jobs and attracting investments, and thus culture turns into a lever for sustainable development.”
The program, which was designed by the organizing committee of the ICOM Dubai 2025 conference, included a set of keynote speeches, presented by a number of prominent cultural figures and experts in the museum sector worldwide, including the famous sculptor L. Anatsui, who spoke in his speech about the power of restoration and resilience, and Emma Nardi, President of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), who indicated in her speech that the general conference is not just a meeting, but rather a celebration of the global museum community, as the conference brings together thousands of specialists to exchange knowledge, promote dialogue, and formulate… The future of this sector.
While Media S. Ekner, Director General of the International Council of Museums, in her speech, pointed out that museums around the world are redefining their roles in the face of accelerating technological, social and environmental changes, as they are no longer just guardians of heritage, but rather have become an essential pillar in formulating more sustainable, inclusive and interconnected societies.
In his speech, Nasser Al Darmaki, President of ICOM UAE, addressed the importance of including the Arabic language for the first time among the languages approved at the General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), to be added alongside English, Spanish and French.
He said: “This decision reflects our commitment to enabling a wide range of experts and interested people from the Arab region to attend and participate in the upcoming conference sessions, and to benefit from the rich dialogues and seminars they contain.”
The first day of the global event, which continues until November 17, witnessed the organization of a series of sessions that included an exchange of ideas and important discussions that addressed the conference’s three themes of youth power, modern technologies, and intangible heritage. Its program included a session on “Artificial Intelligence and Museums: From Vision to Global Action Dialogue,” presented by Media S. Ekner and Christa Becat, Director of the Department for Culture and Emergencies – Culture Sector at UNESCO, France, and included inspiring speeches under the title “The Digital Future” by Dr. Uzma Z. Rizvi, archaeologist at the Pratt Institute, USA, Majid Al Mansouri, Executive Director of the Museum of the Future, and Evita Hoch, Innovation Director at the Innovation Lab at the Rijksmuseum – Amsterdam.
Participating in the session of the Decisions Committee of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), which was held under the title “Legacy and Practice,” were Liu Gauli, research fellow and curator at the National Museum of the Ainu People, Astghik Marabian, Head of the Cultural Heritage Department at the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia, Mark Sweeney, Senior Assistant District Attorney of the City of Tulsa, and Zahida Quadri, President of the International Committee of Regional Museums of the International Council of Museums (ICOM). and Penelope Theologi-Goti, President of ICOM Greece and Chair of the Resolutions Committee of the International Council of Museums (ICOM).
During the session, the speakers reviewed the legacy of the ICOM Decisions Committee and its impact on determining museum priorities and their daily practices. They discussed the most prominent solutions that contributed to supporting ICOM’s mission and enhancing its capabilities by building competencies, expanding areas of cooperation, developing education, and consolidating the position of museums on the global stage.
The first day’s program included a group of workshops, including an advanced training course entitled “Reverse Mentoring: Empowering Youth for Museums and Heritage,” which was hosted by the Singapore Heritage Council Youth Committee, with the aim of preparing a promising generation of leaders in the museum sector, and which was presented through a new methodology and format presented for the first time at AECOM conferences.
It also organized a mentoring session entitled “Professional Development for Museum Workers (for Grantees)”, in which Anas Kattan, Deputy Director and Head of Education and Research at Art Jameel, Darren Parker and Eric Langham, founders of Parker Langham, Maya Allison, founding CEO of Art Gallery, Chief Curator and Senior Researcher at NYU Abu Dhabi, and Wael Kamal, Senior Director of Key Client Account Management – Talent Solutions at LinkedIn Middle East, participated. And North Africa.
The program included an advanced training course entitled “Preservation Strategies in the Age of Changing Technology” moderated by Sundar Rumman, Creative Engineer at PRESENT, followed by a specialized workshop entitled “Preservation Strategies: Object-Centered Processes” presented by Anupam Sah, Art Conservation and Restoration Specialist at Anupam Heritage Laboratory.
Throughout its duration, the international conference will witness the organization of a number of specialized workshops and forums, including the “Youth Forum for Promising Professionals,” which aims to empower the next generation of leaders, and “Guidance Sessions on Safeguarding Tangible and Intangible Heritage,” which contribute to strengthening communication between emerging practitioners and international experts.
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