Dubai: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is taking part in the 27th ICOM General Conference ‘ICOM Dubai 2025,’ scheduled from November 11-17 in Dubai. This event marks the first occasion the triennial conference is hosted in the Middle East, focusing on the theme ‘The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.’

According to Saudi Press Agency, Ithra’s Head of Museum, Farah Abushullaih, stated that the institution’s participation aims to share ideas, forge partnerships, and demonstrate the fusion of heritage and innovation in artistic and craft practices. This is showcased through programs like ‘Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet,’ the Ithra Art Prize, and the Khoos Initiative.

Ithra is contributing to the conference by presenting three research papers: ‘Sustainability of the Craft: Ithra Museum Methodology as a Model for Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Work,’ ‘The Power of Independence through Educating Unskilled Employees to Highly Skilled Professionals at Ithra Museum,’ and ‘Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet.’

At the conference pavilion, Ithra is showcasing its curatorial methods in art, craft, collections, and education. The spotlight is on three major projects: ‘Khoos,’ ‘In Praise of the Artisan,’ and ‘Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet,’ illustrating how Ithra bridges tangible heritage with modern creative practices.

Ithra’s engagement also features the screening of ‘Sa’fa’ (A Frond), a short film by Mahmoud Kaabour. The film provides a poetic exploration of palm-frond weaving in Al-Ahsa Oasis, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ICOM General Conference is a triennial event and is regarded as one of the foremost gatherings in the global museum community.