Strengthening Cultural Bonds: Dubai and Egypt Collaborate at ICOM 2025

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Dubai — In a significant leap for cultural diplomacy, H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, engaged with Dr. Ahmed Fouad Henni, Egypt’s Minister of Culture, at the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025).

Taking place in Dubai for the first time in the history of the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, the conference was held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. Notable attendees included Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State; Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture; and Muna Faisal Al Gurg, CEO of the Museums and Heritage Sector at Dubai Culture.

During their dialogue, Sheikha Latifa praised Dr. Henni for the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum, describing it as a “preeminent cultural and civilizational landmark.” She emphasized the museum's pivotal role not just as a storehouse of ancient treasures, but also as a dynamic center for cultural dialogue, education, and scholarly research.

According to her, the Grand Egyptian Museum exemplifies a visionary approach to modern museums, positioned as a venue for intercultural interaction while affirming Egypt’s role in global heritage preservation.

The leaders discussed potential avenues for enhanced collaboration, focusing on joint initiatives in museums, the arts, and heritage, alongside the sharing of best practices in the preservation of antiquities. They acknowledged the importance of knowledge transfer between cultural institutions to cultivate global understanding and strengthen connections between nations.

This meeting underlined a collective dedication to cultural diplomacy, spotlighting the aspirations of Dubai and Egypt to elevate their heritage institutions as international epicenters for education, research, and intercultural dialogue.