ADMAF Reveals First Details About the 2026 Abu Dhabi Festival
Abu Dhabi Festival returns with “The Wisdom of Culture,” celebrating U.S.–UAE cultural ties and world-class artistic collaborations
The Abu Dhabi Festival is set to return in 2026 with a powerful new vision, as the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) unveiled details of its 23rd edition under the theme “The Wisdom of Culture.” Held under the honorary founding patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the festival reinforces culture’s ability to unite nations through creativity, innovation and shared understanding.
Scheduled to feature an impressive lineup of world-class classical music performances and global collaborations, the 2026 edition will highlight the United States of America as the Country of Honour. The recognition comes as the U.S. marks 250 years of independence and both nations celebrate over 50 years of diplomatic and cultural ties. The festival’s programme will spotlight artistic dialogue, cross-cultural initiatives and collaborative works that reflect the enduring friendship between the UAE and the United States.
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised the Abu Dhabi Festival as a pioneering force in cultural diplomacy since its inception in 2004. He emphasized that this year’s theme embodies the UAE’s vision of culture as a transformative catalyst — one that promotes coexistence, peace, sustainable development and human connection. He highlighted that the festival’s global partnerships and co-productions have elevated Emirati and Arab creativity on the world stage, while simultaneously bringing renowned international artists to Abu Dhabi, now recognized as a global cultural capital and UNESCO City of Music.
Celebrating the United States as the Country of Honour, the festival underscores the shared commitment of both nations to advancing creativity, tolerance and cultural exchange. Through a diverse programme of initiatives, the 23rd edition will demonstrate how artistic collaboration continues to strengthen dialogue and mutual understanding between communities.
The theme “The Wisdom of Culture” reflects the power of art to bridge differences and spark meaningful conversations among cultures. It highlights culture as a universal language — one that inspires innovation and deepens bonds across borders. By uniting Abu Dhabi with global cultural movements, the festival reaffirms the UAE’s role in shaping a future defined by peace, creativity and mutual respect.
As ADMAF celebrates 30 years of cultural service under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the foundation remains committed to nurturing talent, supporting the creative industries and enriching Abu Dhabi’s cultural landscape. The 2026 Abu Dhabi Festival stands as a testament to this mission, embodying the UAE’s belief in the transformative power of the arts and its growing influence as an international hub for cultural dialogue and innovation.