Dubai: The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), in collaboration with the UAE chapter of the International Council of Museums (ICOM-UAE), has announced the organization of the ICOM 2024 International Symposium.
The event is a precursor to the prestigious 27th ICOM General Conference-ICOM Dubai 2025, and marks the first time the conference will be held in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA).
Themed “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” the event underscores Dubai’s growing influence on the global cultural stage.
Three Key Themes
Set to take place at Dubai’s Etihad Museum on 12th November, the symposium will address three critical aspects of modern museology: Intangible Heritage, Youth Empowerment, and New Technologies.
The discussions will guide museums on how to remain relevant and impactful amidst rapid societal transformations, bringing together global museum leaders, scholars, and cultural practitioners for deep intellectual exchange.
Notable Keynote Speakers
New Technologies: Edward Rodley, Co-Founder of The Experience Alchemists, will deliver the opening keynote, exploring the dual impact of technology on museum accessibility and audience engagement. The session will continue with insights from Marjan Faraidooni, Dr. Simon Tanner, and Pablo Guayasamín Madriñán, discussing how museums worldwide are integrating technology to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Intangible Heritage: Dr. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President, will lead discussions on preserving intangible cultural heritage, accompanied by heritage experts like Dr. Abdulaziz Abdulrahman Almusallam of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage and Alia Yunis from NYU Abu Dhabi.
Youth Empowerment: Emirati columnist and Barjeel Art Foundation founder Sheikh Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi will champion the role of youth in shaping the future of museums. Munira Al Sayegh of Dirwaza Curatorial Lab and Osemudiamen Ekore, co-founder of Bootleg Griot, will join the interactive panel to explore how cultural trends influence museum engagement with younger generations.
Founded in 1946 under the United Nations’ umbrella, ICOM is a leading global authority on museum standards and advancement, with over 50,000 members across nearly 120 countries.
The UAE, backed by Dubai Culture, Dubai Municipality, and Dubai Tourism, successfully bid to host the ICOM General Conference in 2025.