Ithra Showcases Saudi Culture at ICOM Dubai 2025

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is participating in the 27th ICOM General Conference “ICOM Dubai 2025,” held from November 11–17 in Dubai under the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” marking the first time the triennial conference is held in the Middle East. The Saudi cultural institution, based in Dhahran, is leveraging this platform to share its innovative approaches to heritage preservation and contemporary creativity.

Context and Background

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) General Conference convenes every three years and is among the world’s major museum gatherings. This year’s event, hosted in Dubai, brings together museum professionals, cultural leaders, and policymakers from around the globe to discuss the evolving role of museums in addressing rapid societal changes. For Ithra, participation signifies Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global cultural sector and its commitment to fostering international dialogue on heritage and innovation.

Key Details

Ithra Head of Museum Farah Abushullaih emphasized that the conference participation aims to share ideas, build partnerships, and demonstrate how heritage and innovation can be combined in artistic and craft practices. Among the programs highlighted are “Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet,” the Ithra Art Prize, and the Khoos Initiative. Ithra is contributing 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 its conference pavilion, Ithra is presenting its curatorial approach across art, craft, collections, and education, spotlighting projects like “Khoos,” “In Praise of the Artisan,” and “Hijrah,” which connect tangible heritage with contemporary creative practice. Additionally, the short film “Sa’fa” (A Frond) by Mahmoud Kaabour offers a poetic view of palm-frond weaving in Al-Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Implications and Impact

Ithra’s active role at ICOM Dubai 2025 underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and knowledge exchange. By presenting research and projects that blend heritage with modern methodologies, Ithra positions the Kingdom as a leader in museum innovation. This participation also fosters international partnerships, enhancing cultural understanding and showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage to a global audience. The inclusion of a film highlighting traditional crafts from Al-Ahsa further reinforces the Kingdom’s dedication to preserving its cultural identity while embracing progress.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This engagement aligns seamlessly with Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes cultural enrichment as a pillar of national development. By promoting heritage, supporting creative industries, and engaging in global cultural forums, Ithra contributes to the Kingdom’s goal of showcasing its cultural assets and fostering a vibrant society. As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to the world, initiatives like these underscore the nation’s commitment to cultural exchange and its role as a bridge between tradition and modernity, reflecting Vision 2030’s aspirations for a globally connected and culturally prosperous Kingdom.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the 27th ICOM General Conference?

A1. The 27th ICOM General Conference, also known as ICOM Dubai 2025, is a triennial gathering of museum professionals held from November 11–17 in Dubai, under the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.” It is a major global event for the museum sector.

Q2. Where is the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture located?

A2. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. It is a cultural initiative by Saudi Aramco, designed to promote knowledge, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding.

Q3. Who is the Head of Museum at Ithra?

A3. The Head of Museum at Ithra is Farah Abushullaih. She leads the museum’s strategic direction and educational initiatives, positioning Ithra as a leading cultural institution in the region.

Q4. What is the theme of ICOM Dubai 2025?

A4. The theme of ICOM Dubai 2025 is “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.” It focuses on how museums can adapt to societal shifts, embrace innovation, and remain relevant in addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities.

Q5. Why is Ithra participating in the ICOM General Conference?

A5. Ithra is participating to share ideas, build partnerships, and demonstrate how heritage and innovation can be combined in artistic and craft practices. This aligns with its mission to promote cultural exchange and showcase Saudi Arabia’s cultural contributions globally.

Q6. What is the “Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet” program?

A6. This program is a major initiative by Ithra that explores the historical journey of Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Makkah to Madinah. It combines historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational content to highlight a significant moment in Islamic history.

Q7. What is the Ithra Art Prize?

A7. The Ithra Art Prize is an annual award that supports contemporary artists from the Arab world. It provides financial backing and exhibition opportunities, fostering creativity and innovation in the region’s art scene.

Q8. What is the Khoos Initiative?

A8. The Khoos Initiative is a project by Ithra that focuses on palm-frond weaving, a traditional craft in Saudi Arabia. It aims to preserve and promote this cultural heritage by engaging artisans and providing training and market access.

Q9. How many research papers is Ithra contributing to the conference?

A9. Ithra is presenting three research papers at the conference. These papers cover topics such as sustainability in cultural heritage, employee development, and the Hijrah program, showcasing Ithra’s innovative methodologies.

Q10. What does the research paper “Sustainability of the Craft” discuss?

A10. This paper discusses Ithra Museum’s methodology as a model for sustainable cultural heritage and work. It highlights how traditional crafts can be preserved and promoted while ensuring economic and environmental sustainability.

Q11. What is the focus of the paper on educating employees?

A11. The paper, titled “The Power of Independence through Educating Unskilled Employees to Highly Skilled Professionals,” examines how Ithra Museum trains its workforce. It emphasizes empowerment through education and skill development, turning unskilled staff into highly qualified professionals.

Q12. What projects is Ithra showcasing at its pavilion?

A12. At its pavilion, Ithra is showcasing three major projects: “Khoos,” “In Praise of the Artisan,” and “Hijrah: In the Footsteps of the Prophet.” These projects illustrate Ithra’s approach to connecting tangible heritage with contemporary creative practice.

Q13. What is the significance of the film “Sa’fa” (A Frond)?

A13. “Sa’fa” is a short film by Mahmoud Kaabour that offers a poetic glimpse into palm-frond weaving in Al-Ahsa Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It underscores the cultural importance of traditional crafts and their role in preserving heritage.

Q14. How does Ithra’s participation benefit Saudi Arabia?

A14. Ithra’s participation enhances Saudi Arabia’s global cultural presence, fostering international partnerships and showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to heritage preservation and innovation. This aligns with Vision 2030 objectives of cultural enrichment and global engagement.

Q15. What is the Al-Ahsa Oasis?

A15. The Al-Ahsa Oasis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Saudi Arabia, known for its historical oasis system and palm cultivation. It represents the rich agricultural heritage of the region and is a symbol of sustainable land use.

Q16. How does Ithra combine heritage and innovation?

A16. Ithra combines heritage and innovation through projects like the Khoos Initiative, which uses traditional craft techniques in modern contexts, and exhibitions like “Hijrah,” which uses interactive technology to present historical narratives. This approach engages contemporary audiences while preserving cultural roots.

Q17. What is the role of museums in rapidly changing communities?

A17. Museums play a crucial role in rapidly changing communities by preserving cultural identities, fostering understanding, and providing educational resources. They also adapt to societal shifts by embracing new technologies and inclusive practices, as highlighted in the ICOM conference theme.

Q18. How does Ithra contribute to Vision 2030?

A18. Ithra contributes to Vision 2030 by supporting cultural development, creativity, and knowledge sharing. Its programs align with the Vision’s goals of promoting a vibrant society, preserving heritage, and enhancing global cultural engagement.

Q19. What is the significance of ICOM being held in the Middle East for the first time?

A19. Holding ICOM in Dubai is a milestone for the Middle East, recognizing the region’s growing influence in the global museum sector. It provides opportunities for regional institutions like Ithra to share expertise and learn from international peers.

Q20. What are the future implications of Ithra’s participation?

A20. Ithra’s participation is likely to lead to new international collaborations and introduce its innovative practices to a global audience. This can enhance Saudi Arabia’s cultural diplomacy and reinforce its position as a hub for cultural innovation, benefiting the Kingdom’s long-term cultural goals.

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