In the spirit of the inaugural General Conference in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, ICOM Dubai 2025 promises to be a groundbreaking and uniquely transformative experience for museum professionals, cultural leaders, and community members globally.
The Conference Venue
The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is Dubai’s epicentre for conferences, events and business in the heart of the city.
With over 45 years of experience, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has hosted over 6000 events and welcomed over 38 million professional and business visitors from across the globe. Whether you join the ICOM Dubai 2025 Conference as a speaker, attendee, exhibitor, or partner you will experience world-class facilities, exceptional service, and the renowned hospitality of Dubai at the DWTC.
Spanning over 200,000 square meters, the state-of-the-art facilities range from complimentary Wi-Fi throughout as standard to technical solutions for real time services that are fast and efficient. DWTC will make sure you’re connected for the duration of your visit.
Located only 400 meters from a metro station, DWTC is easily accessible from key locations across the city via Dubai’s safe and efficient public transport system, including easy access from Dubai International Airport.
There are also various drop-off points around the DWTC campus for taxis and private services, as well as numerous car parks and onsite valet services to ensure easy access to the Conference no matter how you travel to join us.
We look forward to welcoming all ICOM Dubai 2025 Conference participants to the Dubai World Trade Centre.
For more details, visit the DWTC website directly.
Explore Affordable Comfort: A Visitor’s Guide to Budget-Friendly Hotels Across the City
Visa Application to Enter the UAE
If you are planning to join us from abroad, you may need a visa to enter the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
To ensure your journey to ICOM Dubai 2025 is as seamless as possible, we have gathered all the necessary information and support for your visa application process. The UAE offers the convenience of applying for an e-visa, making the process straightforward and efficient. Please read through all the instructions before you begin, then follow the steps below to check your eligibility, and then complete your visa application.
IMPORTANT
For the countries listed below with restrictions, please proceed with your visa application as usual. Once submitted, kindly send your Reference/Application Number to :
ICOMDubai2025@dwtc.com so we can assist in facilitating the process.
Application Requirements
Steps to Follow for Completing Your Visa Applications
Step 01
Check your requirements
Verify if you need a visa to enter the United Arab Emirates. Some nationalities do not require a visa and others are eligible for a visa on arrival. Please check the website of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs to identify what you will need. https://www.mofa.gov.ae/en/visa-exemptions-for-non-citizen
For some GCC countries, please present your GCC passport or national ID issued by a GCC country at the point of entry to the UAE. The validity of entry permits for GCC residents is 30 days.
Step 02
Ensure you have all the correct documents
Gather the necessary documents, including your passport, photographs, and any required supporting documents.
Application requirement
- A valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of arrival
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Completed visa application form
- Proof of accommodation in Dubai
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- A return or onward ticket.
Please note that further documents may be required, depending on your country of residence and the type of visa that you are applying for.
Step 03
Request an invitation letter
To receive an Invitation letter, you need to register as a delegate. If you haven’t already, you can get your badge here.
- If you have already registered as a delegate:
- a. Login to your account
- b. Under ‘Visa Service’, you can select the check box to request an invitation letter.
- c. Once the payment process is completed, you will receive a confirmation email with the updated details along with the invitation letter as an attachment.
Step 04
Submit your application
Apply for your e-visa online (if eligible) through the official UAE government portal or through authorised visa service providers.
Step 05
Pay the visa fee
Complete the payment process as per the instructions on the application portal.
Step 06
Track your application
Monitor the status of your visa application online or through your travel agent.
Step 07
Receive your visa
Once approved, you will receive your e-visa via email. Print a copy to present upon arrival in Dubai.
An Essential Guide to Dubai
Currency
The currency in Dubai is the dirham, which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth AED3.67.
Banks
In Dubai, Visa and MasterCard are
widely accepted, but other credit and debit cards may not be.
Dress Code
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a diverse melting pot where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai’s historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.
Languages
Dubai is home to hundreds of nationalities and both Arabic and English are spoken across the city.
Emergency Numbers
In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:
Visitors may also find these numbers
helpful:
- +971 800 4438 for tourist security issues
- +971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
+971 600 545 555 for consumer-related concerns
Health
If you are travelling with prescribed medication, bring your doctor’s note with you. The Rashid, Latifa and Dubai Hospitals offer free emergency services.
Electricity
Power supply is 220/240 volts. Sockets are compatible with UK-standard three- pin plugs. For US equipment, use a 220V to 110V transformer.
Greetings & Etiquette
Marhaba! Dubai is a warm and friendly city and you will come across many people who will greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but do note it is typically accepted that this should be initiated by women. Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and specialised shops to those over 21 years of age.
Tipping
To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession, and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to offer a little extra in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory.
Phones and Wi-Fi
The country code for the UAE is +971. Tourists get a free prepaid sim card from telecom operator du at the airport, while free Wi-Fi is widely available across the city.
Arriving in Dubai
Most nationalities can simply get a visa on arrival at the airport but visitors should check their visa requirements before arriving. Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) have a range of helpful facilities and public transport options. Money changing facilities and taxis are readily available, as well as car rental services, convenience stores and information desks for general queries.
Weather
With a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai enjoys a warm climate all year. The ‘winter’ months last from October to May with warm temperatures ranging from 20–35°C (68–95°F). The summer season lasts from June to September with hotter temperatures reaching the mid-40s (~110° F) – and the city’s wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensure Dubai is a year-round destination.
The currency in Dubai is the dirham, which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth AED3.67.
In Dubai, Visa and MasterCard are
widely accepted, but other credit and debit cards may not be.
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a diverse melting pot where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai’s historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.
Dubai is home to hundreds of nationalities and both Arabic and English are spoken across the city.
In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:
Visitors may also find these numbers
helpful:
- +971 800 4438 for tourist security issues
- +971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
+971 600 545 555 for consumer-related concerns
If you are travelling with prescribed medication, bring your doctor’s note with you. The Rashid, Latifa and Dubai Hospitals offer free emergency services.
Power supply is 220/240 volts. Sockets are compatible with UK-standard three- pin plugs. For US equipment, use a 220V to 110V transformer.
Marhaba! Dubai is a warm and friendly city and you will come across many people who will greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but do note it is typically accepted that this should be initiated by women. Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and specialised shops to those over 21 years of age.
To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession, and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to offer a little extra in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory.
The country code for the UAE is +971. Tourists get a free prepaid sim card from telecom operator du at the airport, while free Wi-Fi is widely available across the city.
Most nationalities can simply get a visa on arrival at the airport but visitors should check their visa requirements before arriving. Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) have a range of helpful facilities and public transport options. Money changing facilities and taxis are readily available, as well as car rental services, convenience stores and information desks for general queries.
With a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai enjoys a warm climate all year. The ‘winter’ months last from October to May with warm temperatures ranging from 20–35°C (68–95°F). The summer season lasts from June to September with hotter temperatures reaching the mid-40s (~110° F) – and the city’s wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensure Dubai is a year-round destination.
Accessibility at ICOM Dubai 2025
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Concourse 2 is the main venue for ICOM Dubai 2025 and has a range of amenities and services for attendees with disabilities.
Accessible Transportation
Concourse 2 offers accessible transport options, including the metro, taxi, and bus routes, with clear signage, tactile flooring, and spacious elevators to assist those with mobility or visual impairments.
Accessible Parking
Accessible parking is available in several locations, with dedicated spaces near entrances.
Wheelchair Access
The DWTC building features wheelchair-accessible entry at two main entrances at street level each with automatic doors.
Accessible Toilets
Accessible toilets are available on both floors of Concourse 2, each with well-equipped units for those with mobility challenges.
Hearing Support
As tactile maps and audio navigation are not currently available, please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly and we will be more than happy to address your queries. You may contact us on icomdubai2025@dwtc.com
Spacious and Accessible Rooms
Exhibition and conference rooms are spacious, and accessible routes throughout the building are clearly marked, with lifts available for access from the ground to the first floor, and in the car parks.
You may find the DWTC Accessibility Map useful for planning your visit
Please do not hesitate to reach out to us directly and we will be more than happy to address your queries.
Additional Support
Do let us know of your access needs, and give us feedback in order to improve accessibility. Additional information on available assistance for personal assistants, large text booklets, quiet rooms, and evacuation procedures can be provided.
People of
Determination
In 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the term’ People of Determination’ as part of his national strategy for empowering people with disabilities.
Talking about why he thought ‘disability’ was a misnomer, he said Disability is in fact the inability to make progress and achievements. The achievements that people of determination have made in various spheres over the past years are proof that determination and strong will can do the impossible and encourage people to counter challenges and difficult circumstances while firmly achieving their goals. This commitment reflects the UAE’s dedication to fostering an inclusive society, where individuals of determination are empowered to contribute meaningfully to various aspects of life.
The Dubai World Trade Centre Customer Care team have completed the People of Determination* awareness training to provide practical guidance to those with intellectual disabilities, limited mobility and speech, hearing or visual impairments.
Should you require assistance ahead of your visit, please contact us at care@dwtc.com.
