Dubai: H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), launched the Museum of Digital Art (MODA), a landmark addition to Dubai's cultural landscape and the region's first museum dedicated to digital art and new technologies. Located within the DIFC Zabeel District expansion project, the museum represents a significant step in strengthening Dubai's evolving museum sector and advancing its wider creative and cultural ecosystem. H.H. Sheikha Latifa was accompanied by Essa Kazim, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikha Latifa emphasized the museum's role as a reflection of Dubai's vision of culture as a catalyst for innovation and human connection. As the first institution of its kind in the region, MODA marks a significant milestone in Dubai's cultural evolution, reinforcing a commitment to a future where creativity and technology converge to expand artistic boundaries. The emirate's cultural journey, characterized by openness and ambition, continues to build on its legacy by empowering artists and nurturing emerging talent through new pathways for cultural participation and exchange.
The announcement coincides with the 20th edition of Art Dubai, highlighting the growth and maturity of Dubai's arts scene and its commitment to positioning itself as a global cultural center. Over the past two decades, Art Dubai has played a pivotal role in shaping the region's cultural landscape, creating opportunities for artists and creative communities across the UAE and beyond.
The museum, spanning five floors, will serve as a future-focused cultural institution integrating art, technology, and innovation through immersive exhibitions and interactive experiences. DIFC will lead the museum's development, while Dubai Culture will oversee its operations, ensuring alignment with Dubai's cultural ambitions and creative economy priorities.
Essa Kazim noted that for over two decades, DIFC has contributed to Dubai's standing as a global center for art and culture. The Museum of Digital Art represents an evolution of DIFC's art legacy and a commitment to advancing Dubai's cultural ambitions through globally relevant experiences.
Designed by Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, MODA aims to create a dynamic environment for artists and researchers in the digital arts sector. The museum will feature permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational spaces, and interactive platforms to encourage experimentation and interdisciplinary exchange.
Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture, affirmed that MODA demonstrates Dubai's ability to anticipate cultural shifts and adopt new models for art creation and experience. The museum is designed to foster innovation among artists, supporting the growth of cultural and creative industries while opening research platforms for dialogue.
MODA is an integral part of DIFC's long-term arts strategy, shaping the city's cultural evolution over the next 20 years with a unified vision for the Centre's cultural programming. This strategy positions DIFC as a leading cultural district, integrating flagship programs into a cohesive calendar of cultural activity.
Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority and Chairman of Art Dubai, expressed enthusiasm for DIFC's new arts strategy, launching a new cultural chapter with MODA as a key anchor in the district's expansion. The strategy emphasizes education and supports future creative talent through dedicated programs.
The museum will offer experiences highlighting the region's legacy of innovation, developing a 'digital twin' for global access and interaction. It also focuses on skill development for future generations, aligning with Dubai Culture's priorities to support cultural industries and strengthen Dubai as a global creative economy hub.
MODA will support Dubai's strategic objectives under the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy by enhancing the role of cultural industries within the emirate's economy. Upon opening, the museum will contribute to the growth and diversification of Dubai's museum sector, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for cultural tourism and creative investment.