The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has revealed plans for the inaugural Digital Heritage Forum, a global gathering designed to advance cultural preservation through innovative digital technologies.
Scheduled to take place from 3 to 5 November at the Cultural Foundation, the closed event will assemble 250 regional and international participants, featuring 132 expert speakers and representatives from 128 leading institutions worldwide. The Forum will welcome cultural authorities, technology pioneers and key voices in the field of heritage documentation. By providing a shared platform for practitioners across areas such as digital humanities, heritage conservation and cultural technology, the event will strengthen Abu Dhabi’s leadership in advancing forward-looking cultural practices.
Organised by DCT Abu Dhabi, the Digital Heritage Forum highlights the emirate’s vision of shaping a meaningful exchange between the cultural sector and technological innovation. It aims to encourage dialogue, inspire collaborative initiatives and develop new frameworks to help safeguard cultural heritage globally in the digital age.
His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, commented: “Launching the Digital Heritage Forum marks an important step in our ongoing mission to safeguard and promote culture in all its forms. Abu Dhabi stands at a unique crossroads, where deep-rooted heritage intersects with the possibilities of digital innovation, and we remain firmly committed to preserving our legacy while embracing the tools that will carry it forward. Through this Forum, we seek to advance global dialogue, encourage collaboration, and equip the next generation with the knowledge and means to protect their heritage. In doing so, we ensure that our cultural identity continues to thrive not only as a source of pride, but as a foundation for sustainable development in the digital age.”
Over three days, the Forum will feature a diverse array of insightful keynotes, parallel sessions, and tech showcases. The programme includes five keynote presentations by renowned figures such as Prof. Simon See (NVIDIA), Dr. Najwa Aaraj (Technology Innovation Institute), Prof. Douglas Pritchard (Robert Gordon University), Prof. Jon Adams (University of Southampton), and Prof. Maurizio Forte (Duke University, US Department of State), who will share their invaluable insights and inspire new directions in the field. Alongside panel discussions, lightning talks, case study spotlights, and live demonstrations, the sessions will explore five thematic tracks, providing participants with diverse hands-on learning and exchanging opportunities. Opening and closing plenaries will be held in the Cultural Foundation Theatre, reinforcing the site’s historical significance. The Closing Event Panel will feature prominent experts including Mohamed Al Jneibi (Red Dunes Games/Advisor, Emirates Foundation), Chao Tayiana Maina (African Digital Heritage), Dr. David Mitchell (Director of Cultural Assets, Historic Environment Scotland), and Takashi Kudo alongside Sakurako Naka (teamLab).
In addition to the main programme, the Forum will present a series of special events that demonstrate how technology can reshape cultural engagement. These include the virtual reality experience “Gaudi, The Atelier of the Divine” by Geodon Experiences, which takes audiences on a virtual journey into the creative world of Antoni Gaudí. Visitors will also experience “Sounds of Freedom”, an immersive exhibition and podcast that explores heritage through sound and storytelling. The Forum will conclude with “agami” by Mezzoforte, a powerful sound performance that will leave a lasting impression on participants.
The Forum is expected to generate a set of practical recommendations for professionals and institutions worldwide on various aspects of digital heritage, fostering a legacy of collaborative working groups, innovative tools, and impactful projects. This event solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in both research and practical application within the digital heritage domain.
