Da Nang to host world heritage cooperation conference 2026 in December
DNO - A Conference on World Heritage Cooperation 2026, themed “Da Nang - A Place for Heritage Meeting the Future”, is scheduled to take place from December 3 to 5.
This is both an in-person and online event taking place across several locations in Da Nang, including the Grand Sheraton Da Nang, Furama Resort Da Nang, the Da Nang Administrative Center, APEC Park, and various heritage sites.
It is one of Da Nang’s significant international events, making the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s membership in UNESCO.
The conference is expected to attract approximately 500 domestic and international delegates, including leadership representatives from UNESCO and the Organization of World Heritage Cities (OWHC), representatives from international organizations, ambassadors, consuls general, experts, and researchers, as well as from localities with heritage sites both in Vietnam and abroad.
As planned, on December 3, delegates will participate in the “Heritage Route” experience, connecting the Marble Mountains stone inscriptions, My Son Sanctuary, and Hoi An Ancient Town.
Alongside, they will explore traditional craft villages and enjoy the “Hoi An Memories” art performance. A delegate who completes the three-stop journey will receive a “Da Nang Heritage Ambassador” passport.
The main activities will take place on December 4, featuring thematic seminars on international cooperation in heritage conservation and the promotion of heritage values; an exhibition featuring images, videos, and digital applications for heritage management at APEC Park.
Notably, the leadership dialogue session titled "Meeting Da Nang - Connecting Heritage for the Future" will focus on heritage diplomacy, sustainable urban governance, the development of cultural industries, the heritage economy, and public-private partnerships in heritage conservation.
At the conference, Da Nang plans to launch an initiative to join UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities; kick off the "Youth Initiative on Environmental and Cultural Heritage Conservation" contest; organize activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s membership in UNESCO; and promote international cooperation on heritage matters.
Also, the exhibition "50 Years of Vietnam - UNESCO: From National Heritage to Da Nang’s Imprint", alongside traditional art performances and creative craft showcases, will help promote local cultural identity.
Through this conference, the city aims to build a brand identity as "Da Nang - A City of Heritage, Creativity, and Distinct Identity," expand international cooperation networks, accelerate digital transformation in heritage management, foster sustainable tourism and cultural industries, and gradually affirm its position as a regional hub for international events.