Dubai to Host Landmark ICOM General Conference in 2025

Dubai has officially secured its place in history as the host of the 27th ICOM General Conference in 2025, marking the first time the event will be held in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region.

A landmark agreement was signed between the ICOM Dubai 2025 Organising Committee, the International Council of Museums (ICOM), ICOM-UAE, and Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to solidify their collaboration in preparation for the event.

The signing ceremony took place at the Etihad Museum, attended by key figures including Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, and Dr. Emma Nardi, President of ICOM. The conference, scheduled from November 11-17, 2025, will focus on “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities” and is expected to draw over 4,500 museum professionals and cultural experts from around the world.

Dubai’s hosting of the conference highlights its growing influence as a global cultural hub. The event will feature a dynamic ‘Museum Fair,’ showcasing innovations in the museum sector, and will promote international collaboration and knowledge sharing. Her Excellency Badri emphasized Dubai's commitment to advancing cultural dialogue, preserving heritage, and transforming museums into knowledge centers for the future.

Nasir Al Darmaki, Chair of ICOM UAE, celebrated the agreement as a milestone that will elevate the UAE's cultural standing and inspire future museum practices. With the region’s rich cultural landscape, the conference promises to shape the future of museums and their role in global transformation.

News Source: Dubai Media Office