Director of the Yerevan History Museum G. Orbelyan participated in the General Conference of the International Council of Museums in Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
The 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) was held in Dubai (United Arab Emirates) from November 11 to 15, under the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.” The conference is one of the largest and most prestigious international platforms in the museum sector, bringing together thousands of specialists every three years to discuss current challenges and emerging trends.
This year, the ICOM General Conference gathered around 4,500 delegates from various countries. Key topics included the preservation of intangible cultural heritage, the promotion of youth engagement, the integration of new technologies and artificial intelligence, and their influence on the future of museums.
The opening ceremony was attended by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of the UAE, Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, along with other high-ranking officials.
Armenia was represented by a delegation of directors and representatives from several Yerevan museums.
Throughout the conference, thematic sessions featured reports on the development of modern and innovative museum practices, including the use of new technologies and artificial intelligence. During the meeting of the ICOM Exhibitions Committee, the Director of the Yerevan History Museum, Gevorg Orbelyan, delivered a presentation on the museum’s 2023–2025 international exhibitions in China. He highlighted the importance of presenting Yerevan’s history to global audiences—not only through words but through objects that “speak” in the languages of different cultures. Orbelyan emphasized the significance of uncovering Armenia’s identity, creating narratives around museum collections, and strengthening the role of museums as platforms for cultural dialogue.
