Msheireb Museums Shares a Decade of Heritage Innovation at ICOM Dubai 2025
Msheireb Museums marked a significant milestone on the global cultural stage by participating in the ICOM (International Council of Museums) Dubai 2025 Conference, held from November 12 to 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Fresh off its 10th anniversary celebrations, the institution shared insights from a decade of pioneering work in heritage-led innovation, museum practice, and community-driven cultural preservation. The participation offered an opportunity to present the methodologies and learnings documented in the recently launched publications:‘Msheireb Museums: Transforming Doha’s Heritage Houses’ and‘Building on Tradition – The New Architectural Language of Qatar.’These works highlight how the museums have translated heritage into a living resource for contemporary identity, urban placemaking, and regional museum development. Heritage and Progress as Partners Mr Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, reflected on the institution’s contribution to global dialogue: “The conversations at ICOM Dubai reinforced what we celebrated at our 10th anniversary: that heritage and progress work together when rooted in community wisdom. Sharing our approach with peers validated our mission of transforming these houses into living platforms where heritage shapes identity and inspires belonging.” This exchange strengthened Msheireb Museums’ commitment to expanding its role as a cultural anchor within Msheireb Downtown Doha — a model for integrating tradition with sustainable urban development. Spotlight on Global Expertise: Msheireb Museums at ICOM Msheireb Museums led two key presentations during the conference: Session A-22: Intangible Heritage – Storytelling, Identity & Relevance Presentation: Voices Remembered: Curating Intangible Heritage and Historical Trauma at Bin Jelmood HouseSpeaker: Abdullah Al NaamaThis session explored how Bin Jelmood House navigates sensitive historical narratives while honouring the lived experiences of those impacted, creating meaningful spaces for dialogue and empathy. Session C-22: Regional Museum Branding & The Future of Museums Presentation: Branding Heritage: How Msheireb Museums Connect Local Identity with Global ConversationsSpeaker: Mohammed Al Yousuf, Operations & Visitor Relations ManagerThe presentation demonstrated how the museums position themselves as a bridge between Qatar’s cultural heritage and evolving global museum standards amid rapid urban transformation. Following both sessions, discussions centred on how Msheireb Museums balances authenticity with innovation, transforming historic buildings into contemporary spaces for education, storytelling, and community belonging. A Global Platform for Cultural Leadership The ICOM Dubai 2025 Conference brought together museum leaders, curators, academics, researchers, and cultural heritage experts from around the world to examine the evolving role of museums in today’s rapidly changing societies. Msheireb Museums’ participation highlights its growing influence as a regional and international thought leader, contributing to the cultural, educational, and social development of Qatar and beyond. A Decade of Impact in Msheireb Downtown Doha Born from the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Msheireb Museums tell the story of four iconic heritage houses at the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha. Carefully restored and adapted in line with global conservation standards, these museums embody Qatar’s commitment to preserving its past while building for its future. Over the past decade, Msheireb Museums have welcomed more than 200,000 students, strengthened partnerships with educational and cultural institutions, and established themselves as a leading platform where heritage, innovation, and urban development meet. As heritage continues to shape identity and inspire new generations, Msheireb Museums reaffirm their role in preserving Qatar’s cultural narrative — and redefining the role of museums in a rapidly evolving world.
GSMA MWC25 Doha: Final Call for Registration as Global Tech Leaders Prepare to Converge in Qatar
The countdown has begun — and Doha is officially set to host one of the most influential technology gatherings in the world.MWC25 Doha, held on 25–26 November at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), marks a historic first for the region as industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and more than 100 global start-ups prepare to shape the future of digital transformation. Organised by the GSMA, in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), MWC25 Doha will serve as a defining moment for the Middle East and North Africa’s technology, connectivity, and innovation ecosystem. The event directly supports Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030, aligning global expertise with the country’s national ambitions. A Global Milestone: 4YFN Makes Its MENA Debut For the first time in the region, 4YFN — the world-renowned start-up platform — will take the stage at MWC25 Doha, bringing together over 100 high-potential start-ups that are shaping the future of fintech, deeptech, health tech, climate tech, and more. Key highlights include: This dynamic space will serve as a powerful catalyst for investment, collaboration, deal-making, and cross-border partnerships. A Showcase of Vision: Themes That Define the Future MWC25 Doha is built around three powerful themes: Agility Robotics, Beyon, Cohere, Dell Technologies, e&, ITU, Korea International Trade Association, Kosmos Foundation, MCIT Qatar, NetoAI, Snoonu, STC Group, Tech Barcelona, Telefonica, UNDP, VEON — and many more. Key sessions will explore topics such as Agentic AI, Smart Mobility, AI-powered Telco strategies, 5G Futures, Satellite & NTN, Fintech, Commerce, and Open Gateway. An Innovation Floor Unlike Any Other With 230+ exhibitors and sponsors, attendees can expect immersive experiences, including: The Pavilion will highlight Qatar’s most ambitious digital transformation projects and advancements toward a knowledge-based, innovative economy. Smart Policy, Smart Cities, Smart Leadership MWC25 Doha will also host flagship programs that shape global digital strategy: GSMA Ministerial Programme An exclusive, invitation-only forum uniting ministers and regulators to advance digital governance, spectrum policy, and investment strategies for the world’s future digital economy. GSMA Digital Leaders Programme Making its Middle East debut, this high-level gathering examines how AI is transforming infrastructure, business models, and ecosystem innovation. Smart City Expo Doha Under the theme “Beyond Connectivity: A Digital Solutions Pathway to a Smarter, Thriving Future,” the expo will spotlight global thought leaders from MIT Media Lab and Microsoft across five key tracks. Final Call for Registration With deal-making, innovation showcases, global announcements, and high-level policy discussions, MWC25 Doha is set to be one of the most influential technology events ever hosted in the region. This is your final call — Doha is ready. The future is ready. Are you?
