Abu Dhabi (Al Ittihad) – The National Museum of Zayed continues its vibrant activities as it hosts the second day of the 2026 Accessibility Conference. The event brings together esteemed figures from cultural leadership, architecture, and accessibility specialists to explore ways to embed accessibility and inclusivity within sustainable institutional practices in museums.
Highlights from Day Two
The day featured keynote speeches by Naima Abdul Rahman Al Mansouri, Director of Blind Care at the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, and Amina Al Hamadi, Head of Community Engagement and Accessibility at the National Museum of Zayed. Their addresses underscored the significance of accountability and ongoing improvement in developing cultural environments that embrace diverse community groups, allowing for full participation in museum experiences.
Panel Discussions on Inclusive Practices
The opening panel discussion, titled “Accessibility Beyond Checklists: Rethinking Inclusive Practices in Arab Museums,” featured a diverse array of experts including Mohammed Al Qaisi, Director of Education at the Jordan Museum; Omar Al Mamari, Director of Beit Al Zubair Museum in Oman; and Maral Gul Bedouyan, Director of Education Resources at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Participants deliberated the importance of transcending compliance requirements and integrating accessibility into museum policies, programs, and experiences to enhance community engagement and representation for people of determination.
International Case Studies and Designs for Inclusion
The session also showcased case studies from the UAE, South Korea, and Kenya, focusing on practices that contribute to accountability and the long-term sustainability of inclusive museum practices. Additionally, a session titled “Belonging Through Design: Museums as Community Spaces” was led by Dr. Victor Pineda, President of the Pineda Foundation. He discussed the role of museums as inclusive community spaces that foster participation, strengthen social bonds, and cultivate a sense of belonging.
Commitment to Sustained Inclusivity
Discussions throughout the day affirmed the critical need to integrate accessibility at every stage of institutional planning, design, interpretation, and community engagement. This ensures that inclusive practices become a continuous commitment and an integral part of cultural institutions’ operations, rather than simply isolated initiatives.