Museum of the Future House – Dubai at SXSW 2025

Fri, 07 Mar, 2025 at 10:00 am to Tue, 11 Mar, 2025 at 10:00 pm UTC-06:00

Museum of the Future House | Austin

Museum of the Future
Publisher/HostMuseum of the Future
Museum of the Future House \u2013 Dubai at SXSW 2025
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Explore the innovative spirit of Dubai in Austin with five days of curated panels and cultural exhibitions. Badge restrictions apply.
About this Event

Dubai's Museum of the Future (MOTF), flagship project by Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), and SXSW® announce their first groundbreaking global partnership. Taking place from March 7 -11, the imersive experience includes 20 curated experiences and will occur at Dubai's official SXSW headquarters, the Museum of the Future House. The Museum of the Future, a seven-story cultural landmark in Dubai that opened in 2022, is partnering with the Dubai Future Foundation to spotlight the United Arab Emirates' emergence as a global technology and innovation hub through the pop-up museum and SXSW official panels. Attendees can expect expert-led discussions, outdoor activations, networking opportunities, and a mix of Middle Eastern narratives exploring humanity, nature, and future technologies—from space proofing cuisine to innovative food systems emerging from desert landscapes.

At the pop-up museum, explore a multi sensory experience inspired by space, humanity and the natural world, and an outdoor space highlighting Emirati culture Culinary experiences include tastings of the viral TikTok sensation, the original Dubai chocolate bars from FIX Dessert Chocolatier, and traditional chai demonstrations by Project Chaiwala. Internationally renowned digital visual artist Refik Anadol (@refikandol) has created an immersive artwork called “Earth Dreams,” exploring the three elements of the Earth: air, land, and water, in which attendees can be surrounded by pixels transformed into colorful clouds.


Agenda – March 7

🕑: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Presentation: "Meet us at the Museum of the Future"

Info: Join us on a journey through space and time at the Museum of the Future. Appearing for the first time at SXSW, the museum will take us from outer space to inner space and the world of tomorrow. Together, we’ll explore how Dubai’s iconic museum is combining art, technology, and immersive storytelling to awe and inspire all who enter. Taking place at the Museum of the Future House main stage, this introductory presentation will be led by Majed Al Mansoori, Deputy Executive Director of the Museum of the Future.


🕑: 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Workshop: "Leaders for Humanity"

Info: This workshop will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage and will be led by Sabrina Sullivan, Founder of by + by foresight.


🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM
SXSW Official: "The Future of Storytelling: A Middle Eastern Series" (Part 1)

Info: As the global entertainment industry continues to evolve, the dominance of Hollywood is increasingly challenged by diverse voices from around the world. This session dives into the rise of Middle Eastern storytelling and its powerful influence on global cinema. We’ll explore how writers and filmmakers from the region are breaking stereotypes, offering fresh perspectives, and challenging the status quo. From rich cultural heritage to innovative modern tales, Middle Eastern creators are shaping the future of storytelling and offering perspectives that are more inclusive, nuanced, and authentic. This fireside chat with film producer Gianluca Chakra will be moderated by Cinema Akil founder Butheina Kazim and will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage.


🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
SXSW Official: "Lunar Living: Where Humanity Meets Space"

Info: Ever wondered what it takes to live on the Moon? Join us to hear firsthand from astronauts about how they’re preparing for lunar life and learn more about the groundbreaking Lunar Gateway project. From building sustainable habitats to overcoming the unique challenges of living on the Moon, we’ll explore how human resilience and creativity will shape our future in space. Discover how we’re blending Earth’s traditions with the pioneering spirit needed to thrive on the Moon and get a glimpse into humanity’s next great leap in space exploration. This panel includes Emirati astronaut Hazzaa Al Mansoori, Canadian astronaut Shawna Pandya, aerospace engineer Mohamed AlSalami, and Isabella Pirolo of the Dubai Future Foundation (moderator). The panel will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage.


Agenda – March 8

🕑: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
SXSW Official: "‘Spaceproofing’ Food: Are We Ready to Dine on Mars?"

Info: Taking place at the JW Marriott, this panel discusses the question, "What will we be eating in space or from space?" As space exploration continues, international and national agencies are assessing ways to produce food in space that resists microgravity and meets astronauts' nutritional needs. A regenerative food system in orbit could relieve pressure on Earth. Space manufacturing plants powered by renewable energy could replace energy-to-food production on land. As space missions grow longer, ensuring a stable, nutritious food supply will be key. Let's discuss how we can get ready for life in space by starting with one of human basic needs: food consumption. The panel will include Emirati astronaut Hazzaa Al Mansoori, award-winning agriculture-focused strategist Christine Gould, Senior Vice President of Space and Defense at Solar Foods Arttu Luukanen and Isabella Pirolo of the Dubai Future Foundation (moderator).


🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
SXSW Official: "Timeless Ink: The Evolution of Arabic Calligraphy"

Info: Calligraphy is a vital element of Arab culture and a key aspect of the Museum of the Future's identity. Hosting workshops and a visually engaging session with one of region's prominent calligraphers would be a powerful way to establish a presence for the art form. As we look toward the future of this art form, it's clear that artists are no longer limited to traditional calligraphy on paper. Today, we see calligraphy taking on new dimensions, from sculptures to large-scale installations on buildings, such as those featured at the Museum of the Future. This presentation from Arabic calligraphy artist Ghaleb Hawila will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage.


🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM
"Alf Layla Wa Layla": Exploring the Legacy of One Thousand and One Nights

Info: The audience includes scholars and enthusiasts of Arabic literature, cultural history, and folklore, as well as media professionals interested in universal narratives. It will appeal to diaspora communities, and those curious about mythology, storytelling, and the cultural impact of the 1001 Nights across centuries. Students, educators, and creative writers would also find value in exploring the lasting legacy of these timeless tales and the arts. This panel will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage with novelist Tarek El-Ariss, Emirati poet Amal Al Sahlawi and author Elias Muhanna (moderator).


🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
SXSW Official: "Today & Tomorrow: What Makes a Futurist?"

Info: Taking place at the Austin Marriott Downtown, speakers will explore whether futurists really are worth their salt, and if there is more to the profession than meets the eye. Right now, there aren’t many major organizations certifying futurists, but that could change in the future. The panel will dive into what futurists aim to achieve in their work and the different ways people can get into these careers. As the field of futures and foresight grows, it’s expected to evolve, especially now that the “future” plays such a big role in public strategies. Before looking ahead, we'll also take a step back and reflect on how the profession has developed so far. The panel includes Salesforce Futures team lead Mick Costigan, UNICEF Youth Foresight Fellow Rawan ElSayed, author and urban scholar-practitioner Geci Karuri-Sebina and executive director of the Dubai Future Foundation Patrick Noack (moderator).


Agenda – March 9

🕑: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
SXSW Official: "What is the 'why' of future generations?"

Info: In the Dubai Future Foundation’s view of the global future, one assumption is clear: technology will continue to reshape our world. As humanity becomes more self-sufficient, what will define our sense of purpose? What will define our children’s and our grandchildren’s sense of purpose? Technology is transforming how we live, work, and connect, and as purpose grounds us in an ever-changing world, how will we find direction and will ‘meaning’ be the key in the future? This panel will take place at the Museum of the Future House's main stage. Panelists include Queen's University professor Eddy Ng, sociologist and author Tracy Brower and executive director of the Dubai Future Foundation Patrick Noack (moderator).


🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Panel: "Ask a Futurist: Your Chance to Uncover the Future!"

Info: Got questions about the future? Now’s your chance to ask! Join us for an engaging and open-ended session where three futurists from various industries take the hot seat, ready to answer your most intriguing questions. Whether it’s about flying cars, life on Mars, or even the future of urban spaces, no topic is too big or small. Come with your curiosity, leave inspired—and maybe even a little mind-blown. The future’s waiting for you—let’s dive in and talk about it! This panel will take place at the Museum of the Future House. Panelists will include futurist and trend forecaster Sarah Owen, author and urban scholar-practioner Geci Karuri-Sebina and Dubai Future Foundation deputy CEO Abdulaziz AlJaziri.


🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM
SXSW Official: "The Future of Storytelling: A Middle Eastern Series (Part 2)"

Info: As the global entertainment industry continues to evolve, the dominance of Hollywood is increasingly challenged by diverse voices from around the world. This session dives into the rise of Middle Eastern storytelling and its powerful influence on global cinema. We’ll explore how writers and filmmakers from the region are breaking stereotypes, offering fresh perspectives, and challenging the status quo. From rich cultural heritage to innovative modern tales, Middle East creatives are shaping the future of storytelling and offering perspectives that are more inclusive, nuanced, and authentic. Panelists include award-winning novelist Hisham Matar, author Sara Hamdan, and Yazan Al Ghazzawi of Cinema Akil (moderator).


🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
SXSW Official: "Food from the Dunes: What can the Desert Bring to the Table?"

Info: The way we eat in the future will differ from today. We’ll need to adapt to new climates and tastes, while knowledge of our gut health will shape our diets. Deserts offer valuable lessons—not only because many regions will face water scarcity but also because they are home to some of the world’s most resilient communities. From salicornia to dates and cutting-edge technologies transforming energy into food, explore a future of food that promises to be as rich and flavorful as ever! This panel will take place at the Museum of the Future main stage. Panelists include chef Maitha Tariq Warshaw, sustainability-focused restauranteur Omar Shihab, ReFarm CEO Oliver Christof and Dana Al Marashi, head of diplomacy of the UAE Embassy in Washington D.C. (moderator).


🕑: 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Tasting Experience: "Taste the Future: Tradition and Innovation at the Table"

Info: Taste the future alongside the past with cultivated chocolate and coffee, groundbreaking lab-grown innovations addressing future food challenges and sustainability. Contrast these with the rich heritage of traditional desert dates, prepared as they have been for generations. This unique pairing highlights the intersection of innovation and tradition, showcasing how ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology can shape a sustainable and flavorful future. Discover how food evolves while preserving its roots. This experience will take place at the Museum of the Future House and will be led by California Cultured CEO Alan Perlstein and Arttu Luukanen of Solar Foods (moderator).


Agenda – March 10

🕑: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
SXSW Official: "Nature Responds: Exploring AI’s Role in Human Dialogue"

Info: Artificial intelligence has allowed us to study animals and nature from previously unimaginable perspectives. And we are only at the very beginning. Advancements in AI are expected to allow us to communicate with animals and to augment our senses, unlocking novel ways to connect to the natural world. In this session, explore the implications for how we relate to Mother Nature. Learn the exciting new ways in which technology can change our perceptions and interactions with our fellow inhabitants here on Earth. This discussion will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage and will include Brittany Solano of the Earth Species Project, The Life Robotic founder Romie Kind and Museum of the Future creative director Brendan McGetrick (moderator).


🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
SXSW Official: "Hindsight to Foresight: Indigenous Wisdom for the Future"

Info: It’s obvious that learning from the past is critical to survive our collective future. Indigenous peoples are some of the world’s best keepers of intergenerational knowledge, yet often do not play a central role in guiding decision-making or scenario planning at a non-local level. This session will explore the possibilities of integrating indigenous knowledge with the foresight process. This panel will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage and includes foresight strategist Samantha Matters, Emily Sharp, and Fatma AlFalasi of the Dubai Future Foundation (moderator).


🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM
SXSW Official: "The Future of Storytelling: A Middle Eastern Series (Part 3)"

Info: As the global entertainment industry continues to evolve, the dominance of Hollywood is increasingly challenged by diverse voices from around the world. This session dives into the rise of Middle Eastern storytelling and its powerful influence on global cinema. We’ll explore how writers and filmmakers from the region are breaking stereotypes, offering fresh perspectives, and challenging the status quo. From rich cultural heritage to innovative modern tales, Middle Eastern creators are shaping the future of storytelling and offering perspectives that are more inclusive, nuanced, and authentic. This panel will take place on the Museum of the Future House main stage. Panelists include animator Mohammed Harib, Emirati film director and scriptwriter Maitha AlAwadhi and Cinema Akil founder Butheina Kazim (moderator).


Agenda – March 11

🕑: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
SXSW Official: "Future Society: A World-Building Game for Philanthropy"

Info: In this interactive session, participants are invited to step into the role of a decision-maker tasked with creating a resilient society. This collective game (Forging Futures, Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors game) will require the players to vote on actions to adopt and on how to shape the future of the society to build. Participants will be asked to face tough strategic decisions that require balancing short-term resource allocations and a long-term resilience to unexpected events. Come play! This workshop will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage and will be led by vice president of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors Olga Tarasov and futurist Alisha Bhagat.


🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM
SXSW Official: "Nature Reborn: Engineering the Future of Biodiversity"

Info: By bolstering ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change, the advancement of genetic engineering, cloning, and selective breeding offers potential solutions for restoring endangered species. This session will explore the ecological upsides, ethical quandaries, and practical challenges of harnessing these cutting-edge technologies. Themes like the future of biodiversity and humanity's role in engineering nature resilience will be explored. This panel will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage and will include discussions from marine biologist Liv Williamson, artist and AI researcher Ila Colombo and Fatma AlFalasi of the Dubai Future Foundation (moderator).


🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
SXSW Official: "Immersive Experiences: Redefining Museums for the Digital Age"

Info: Immersive technologies are transforming museums into dynamic spaces for connection and discovery. Visionary artists are shaping new approaches to exhibitions. From AI-powered installations to interactive digital art, discover how the fusion of creativity and technology is redefining cultural experiences for the digital age. This session highlights the limitless possibilities of blending art, innovation, and imagination in shaping the future of museums. This panel will take place at the Museum of the Future House main stage and will include discussions from multisensory experiential designer Emilie Baltz and Museum of the Future creative director Brendan McGetrick (moderator).


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Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Museum of the Future House, East 3rd Street & Congress Avenue, Austin, United States

Tickets

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