The organising committee of the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025) has introduced an expanded slate of cultural tours designed to give delegates a clear view of the United Arab Emirates’ diverse heritage and its regional connections. The conference, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and hosted for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, incorporates these tours into its official programme.
The Local Social Programme sent participants across all seven emirates for daylong visits to historical sites, contemporary museums, ecological areas, and creative districts. The itineraries ranged from archaeological landscapes in Al Ain to Sharjah’s heritage centres, and from Abu Dhabi’s landmark institutions to Dubai’s modern museums. Stops included Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Fort, the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, Dhayah Fort, the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, the Museum of the Future, Etihad Museum, Al Shindagha Museum, Ajman Museum, and the Tell-Abraq and Ed-Dour sites in Umm Al Quwain.
A separate Regional Excursions Programme offered multi-day trips to Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. Developed with partners across the Middle East, these tours highlighted museum networks and cultural preservation initiatives that shape the region’s broader heritage landscape.
Together, the domestic and regional excursions are intended to extend the conference’s focus beyond its main venue, underscoring ICOM’s aim to promote cross-cultural exchange and strengthen the UAE’s role as a growing centre for cultural dialogue.
Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.
Oksana Bozhko
