Dialogue in the Dark is a pioneering social-experience exhibition conceived in Frankfurt in 1988. Over more than 30 years it has been staged in over 40 countries worldwide, guiding millions of sighted visitors through daily-life scenarios in total darkness under the guidance of visually impaired hosts. The Cairo edition (launched in summer 2019) is the first Dialogue in the Dark exhibition in the Middle East and Africa. Its goal is to break down barriers and foster empathy by letting sighted participants “discover the unseen” using touch, sound, smell and taste instead of sigh.
The Cairo venue located in the Al Nour Wal Amal Association building in Nasr City comprises three large darkened rooms, each simulating a different scenario. Participants, using a white cane and led by a blind or visually impaired guide, “cross” a busy street, walk through a traditional market, and visit a café all in complete darkness. In each space the visitor must rely on touch, hearing, smell and even taste to navigate and recognize familiar surroundings (e.g. feeling the texture of the street or hearing market noises). This 60-minute immersive tour challenges guests to leave their visual sense behind and heightens awareness of the non-visual experience.
The exhibition is designed for the sighted to experience blindness: it is led by blind guides and relies on non-visual senses. Persons with visual impairment usually serve as guides rather than visitors.
The largest private sector bank in Egypt, CIB focuses on social responsibility as part of its banking activities.The bank provides integrated banking services to businesses and individuals and places community support at the core of its work. CIB’s partnership with the Dialogue in the Dark project began in 2023. aims to support the empowerment of people with visual disabilities and raise awareness of their issues, achieving positive outcomes for both parties.
Drosos Foundation has been supporting youth in Egypt since 2009. In line with Egypt’s Vision 2030, our support equips youth with the skills, tools, and competencies needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy while promoting inclusive opportunities. Drosos Foundation funds local partners who support youth in fulfilling their potential and leading positive change in their communities, ensuring a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future for all.
