Dubai is making a statement at SXSW 2025, and it’s coming straight from the future. The Museum of the Future House, presented by Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), has been a must-see attraction since opening its doors on March 7. Nestled at Third Street and Congress Avenue, this pop-up experience is pulling in thousands daily, with lines wrapped around the block as festivalgoers rush to glimpse what the future holds—Dubai style.
From AI-powered art installations to insights on living beyond Earth, the activation is a multi-sensory journey through the next frontier of technology, culture, and innovation. With just two days left, here’s what’s been going down—and what’s still to come.
A Futuristic Start: Middle Eastern Storytelling & Space Exploration
Kicking things off, Majed Al Mansoori, Executive Director of Museum of the Future, welcomed SXSW audiences with a powerful message:
“Our museum’s purpose is to present a hopeful vision of the future for humanity. To illustrate what might be possible.”
From there, the experience launched into “The Future of Storytelling: A Middle Eastern Series,” featuring Dubai-based producer Gianluca Chakra and Cinema Akil founder Butheina Kazim. Their discussion emphasized the rising influence of Arab cinema on the global stage, with a mission to reshape narratives through film.
But the future isn’t just about storytelling—it’s about where humanity is headed next. The first Emirati astronaut, Hazzaa Al Mansoori, took the stage alongside Canadian astronaut Shawna Pandya to discuss the reality of lunar living and sustainable space habits.
“We have different ideologies, philosophies, and even lifestyles, but we are all coming together to send humans to the moon and beyond,” said Mohamed AlSalami from Dubai’s Mohamed bin Rashid Space Center.
Mars Dining, AI Art, and Viral Chocolate—A Future You Can Taste & See
Saturday’s programming brought even more intrigue, including a panel that got everyone questioning their future diets:
”‘Spaceproofing’ Food: Are We Ready to Dine on Mars?”
“Food is essential—not just to consume, but for our psychology. Eating something that reminds you of home, something your mom made, something that comforts you, is just as important as survival,” shared astronaut Hazzaa Al Mansoori.
Beyond thought-provoking discussions, the Museum of the Future House has become a cultural hotspot for SXSW attendees. Visitors have lined up daily for:
• Refik Anadol’s “Earth Dreams” AI-powered installation – an immersive digital artwork transforming nature into a futuristic visual experience.
• Dubai’s viral FIX Dessert Chocolatier chocolate bars – the TikTok-famous treats making their way into hands (and Instagram feeds).
• Traditional chai from Project Chaiwala – an authentic taste of Dubai’s deep-rooted café culture.
With over 16,000 attendees in just three days, the energy surrounding the exhibit isn’t slowing down.
What’s Next?
The Museum of the Future House is open through March 11, with daily programming featuring futurists, visionaries, and creatives shaping what’s next. Don’t miss:
• Conversations with Emirati Chef Maitha Tariq Warshaw about the future of food.
• More live podcast sessions, panels, and interactive exhibits.
• Exclusive giveaways and experiences you won’t find anywhere else at SXSW.
This pop-up is one of SXSW 2025’s biggest attractions, and with just two days left, now’s the time to step inside the future.
For the full schedule, visit www.museumofthefuturesxsw.com and stay updated on Instagram @museumofthefuture & @dubaifuture. Use #MuseumOfTheFutureSXSW to join the conversation.
🚀 See you in the future! 🚀
Comments