Abu Dhabi Festival celebrates cultural diversity and artistic excellence.
Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 has unveiled a range of exciting events. Starting from 12 April and running until 16 May, this year’s theme is The Wisdom of Culture. The season celebrates cultural diversity and artistic excellence from across the world.
This year will mark Abu Dhabi Festival’s 23rd edition. It brings together more than 1,000 artists from 19 countries, bringing music, dance, opera, visual art, and cross-cultural dialogue to the capital. It will explore how artistic expression reflects humanity while strengthening international connections. This edition also recognises the US as Country of Honour, marking 250 years of independence and over five decades of diplomatic relations with the UAE.
Opening night on 12 April 2026 sees Grammy Award-winning pianist and composer Jon Batiste inaugurate the festival at Emirates Palace Auditorium. On 2 May, world-renowned cellist Hauer takes the stage at Etihad Arena, bringing his signature fusion of classical and contemporary music to a large audience.
Other highlights include the American Ballet Theatre, celebrated for its technical excellence and expressive depth, and the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra’s Verdi Opera Gala, marking 125 years since the composer’s passing. Conducted by Giacomo Sagripanti and featuring soprano Maria Agresta and tenor Giorgio Berrugi, the concert honours Verdi’s enduring operatic legacy.
The Abu Dhabi Festival also champions innovation and cross-cultural collaboration. Expect to see Algarabia, which blends flamenco, Arab poetry, music, dance and theatre. Other notable performances include pianist Minsoo Sohn, violinist Lisa Batiashvili with pianist Giorgi Gigashvili, and acclaimed soprano Sondra Radvanovsky. UNESCO World Jazz Day is marked with a performance by Dhafer Youssef, blending North African traditions with jazz and classical influences.
The Abu Dhabi Festival concludes with an Emirati Recital Series spotlighting local talent, featuring mezzo-soprano Fatima Al Hashimi, oud and qanun performers trained at Beit Al Oud, and cellist Elham Al Marzouqi.
Beyond performances, the festival extends internationally through exhibitions, world premieres and educational initiatives, reaffirming its role as a platform for cultural exchange, education and future generations of artists.
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GO: Visit www.abudhabifestival.ae for more information.