Dubai’s Museum of the Future, known worldwide as a symbol of innovation and future foresight, has announced its participation in South by Southwest (SXSW), the leading global event for technology, innovation, and art. This prestigious event will be held in Austin, Texas, from March 7 to 15, 2025. Over five days, the Museum of the Future will present Dubai’s forward-looking vision through 20 activations, panel discussions, and interactive experiences, showcasing its commitment to technology, foresight, and culture on a global stage.
SXSW, first held in 1987 in the United States, is renowned for bringing together conferences, festivals, and specialized activities that span technology, film, music, education, and culture. In its 2024 edition, the event attracted over 300,000 participants from around the world, reinforcing its status as a premier platform for global innovation and creativity. This year, the Dubai Future Foundation will serve as the official sponsor of the 2050 Track at SXSW, facilitating critical discussions on groundbreaking topics such as lunar living, artificial intelligence, and the future of food. The Museum of the Future House has been meticulously designed to engage international audiences and highlight Dubai’s commitment to shaping the future.
Majed Al Mansoori, Executive Director of the Museum of the Future, emphasized the strategic importance of participating in SXSW, stating that it provides an invaluable opportunity to introduce Dubai’s spirit to a global audience. Al Mansoori highlighted that the Museum of the Future embodies the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Through its participation at SXSW, the museum aims to demonstrate Dubai’s ambition to shape a positive future for humanity by leveraging one of the world’s most influential platforms for technology, culture, and art. Al Mansoori added, “The Museum of the Future experience will provide Austin with a window into our city, showcasing why we are rapidly emerging as a global hub for innovation, talent, and investment.”
Visitors to the Museum of the Future House at SXSW will have the opportunity to engage in 20 diverse events and activations, including expert-led panel discussions and AI-powered interactive experiences. A highlight of the exhibit will be “Earth Dreams,” a pioneering digital artwork created by internationally acclaimed artist Refik Anadol, renowned for transforming real environmental data into dynamic visual narratives. Earth Dreams, which is also showcased on the second floor of Dubai’s Museum of the Future, will bring a piece of Dubai’s innovative spirit to Austin, captivating audiences with its futuristic vision and artistic ingenuity.
The event will feature distinguished speakers, including astronauts, urban planning experts, and filmmakers, who will engage in discussions about the challenges and opportunities influencing the future across multiple sectors. These conversations will offer valuable insights into the role of innovation and creativity in driving meaningful transformations, emphasizing Dubai’s leadership in fostering forward-thinking solutions.
The lineup of notable UAE participants underscores the significance of Dubai’s involvement at SXSW. Key speakers include UAE astronaut Hazzaa Al Mansouri, whose participation highlights the UAE’s growing presence in space exploration, and Canadian astronaut Shawna Pandya, known for her work at the intersection of space and medicine. International film producer Gianluca Chakra, celebrated for his contributions to the global film industry, will also be present, alongside renowned author Geci Karuri Sebina, whose thought leadership in urban innovation is internationally recognized. Adding to the rich cultural narrative are Emirati animator Mohammed Saeed Harib, the creative mind behind the popular animated series ‘Freej,’ and Butheina Kazim, the founder of Cinema Akil, who is celebrated for her role in promoting independent cinema in the region.
The Museum of the Future’s participation at SXSW underscores Dubai’s strategic focus on fostering a culture of innovation and foresight. Through this global platform, the museum aims to inspire a new generation of thinkers, creators, and visionaries. More information about the Museum of the Future’s participation at SXSW will be shared on its social media platforms under the handle @museumofthefuture, providing a dynamic channel for updates and engagement with global audiences.
By taking center stage at SXSW, the Museum of the Future not only celebrates Dubai’s achievements in technology and culture but also reinforces its position as a global hub for innovation, talent, and investment. This strategic move reflects Dubai’s commitment to shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for humanity, leveraging creativity, technology, and visionary leadership.