Thirteenth International Conference on The Inclusive Museum

Abstract

The world is evolving, transforming and changing, and Saudi Arabia is changing at an even more rapid pace. At the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), human potential is seen as the greatest source of change. Thus, the investment for inclusive museums and exhibits has embarked; where no entity in the region has gone before. Despite age, disability, gender, and socio-cultural background, Ithra in 2018 opened its doors for all visitors to encourage creativity, inspire minds, and empower talent. We review the foundation for inclusion and accessibility for programming and exhibit design that is being established through evidence-based practices and visitor experience. We started by designing a sensory friendly space for children, contemporary art programming for visitors who are hard of hearing and deaf, and developing various museum and cultural experiences for visitors who are visually impaired, blind, and physically impaired. Visitors demand for inclusion and accessibility has increased exponentially over the years. We have faced challenges; including alternative resources, breaking stereotypes, engaging the community through a cultural institution, implementing best practices, operating the institution sustainably, and building local capacity. Being a hub of transformation, Ithra continues to meet and overcome challenges in order to bring in museum exhibits inspired by universal design and develop inclusive programs that appeal to a diverse audience.The importance of an inclusive museum is often questioned, and simply answered through demonstration of space, education, and awareness where all visitors get to experience the uniqueness of Ithra.