Dubai, UAE: MTE Studios, a UAE-based pioneer in immersive exhibitions, brought global cultural dialogue into focus during a thought-provoking session at Ajman University on International Museum Day 2026. Founder Ludo Verheyen explored the theme “Museums Uniting a Divided World,” highlighting how museums can foster understanding and connection across cultures.
Museums as Platforms for Dialogue
Known for creating large-scale educational and cultural experiences, MTE Studios continues to position the UAE as a hub for globally relevant storytelling and immersive learning. Through compelling examples such as the African Museum in Tervuren, the Apartheid Museum in South Africa, and MTE Studios’ own globally recognized Sultans of Science traveling exhibition, Verheyen emphasized that museums are evolving beyond object display spaces into places of dialogue, reflection, and human connection.
Building Bridges Through Exhibitions
One of the strongest messages from the session was how exhibitions can create bridges between cultures in ways politics often cannot. Drawing from the international success of Sultans of Science, Verheyen spoke about reclaiming shared intellectual ancestry, challenging historical silence, and using storytelling to inspire curiosity instead of division.
Collaboration with ICOM UAE
Hosted in collaboration with ICOM UAE, the event brought together students, creatives, and cultural thinkers for meaningful conversations around the role museums play in shaping empathy, preserving memory, and building a more connected future.
MTE Studios’ Global Portfolio
With offices in Dubai and Cape Town, MTE Studios has delivered landmark projects across multiple continents. Its notable portfolio includes the award-winning Science Museum at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, Ajman Fort Museum, Masfoot Museum, Dubai Transport Museum, and contributions to revitalizing the Al-Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, preserving its cultural heritage while integrating modern elements.
Verheyen’s insights underscored the transformative power of museums in uniting divided societies, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a leader in cultural innovation.
