International Jazz Day 2025 to Brighten Abu Dhabi with Music and Culture

Celebrating International Jazz Day 2025 in Abu Dhabi

The vibrant city of Abu Dhabi will take center stage as the Global Host City for the 2025 edition of International Jazz Day on April 30. This landmark celebration is set to unfold globally in over 190 nations, uniting jazz enthusiasts and artists worldwide under the auspices of UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed delight about the occasion, stating, "We are thrilled to celebrate this International day on a high note in the UNESCO Creative City of Music Abu Dhabi. This edition will highlight the city's rich tapestry of creativity and cultural heritage while showcasing jazz's ability to connect communities and promote dialogue and peace across continents."

Abu Dhabi promises a remarkable five-week jazz extravaganza, incorporating concerts, community events, and educational programs throughout the city. The festivities will culminate with the International Jazz Day 2025 All-Star Global Concert on April 30 at the massive Etihad Arena, the region's biggest indoor entertainment venue. Notable pianist Herbie Hancock will lead this star-studded lineup, with renowned Academy Award-winning actor Jeremy Irons serving as host.

Among the incredible artists expected to perform are Arqam Al Abri from the UAE, John Beasley and Dee Dee Bridgewater from the USA, A Bu from China, Terri Lyne Carrington, Kurt Elling, José James, and several more international jazz icons. Hancock emphasized that "jazz has always been about bringing people together, breaking barriers, and inspiring creativity across cultures. International Jazz Day reminds us that music has the power to transcend borders, foster dialogue, and spark joy and hope."

Tickets for the concert can be obtained through various platforms, including jazzday.com, and streaming will be available worldwide via UNTV, UNESCO, Facebook, YouTube, and other media partners.

In addition to the global concert, the spirit of International Jazz Day will resonate through thousands of events internationally. Musicians, educators, and institutions will organize masterclasses, jam sessions, panel discussions, and workshops, showcasing the profound impact and unity that jazz fosters across communities.

Abu Dhabi's diverse cultural landscape will host a full month of jazz activities in key cultural and educational venues including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi, and NYU Abu Dhabi. Furthermore, hospitals, senior centers, children's libraries, and schools will host special performances that integrate traditional instruments such as the oud, qanoon, and ney with jazz.

Notably, International Jazz Day 2025 coincides with the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, an annual convergence of leaders from the cultural and creative sectors that will feature panels and discussions led by Herbie Hancock alongside other esteemed artists.

The celebration is supported globally by significant partners like the Doris Duke Foundation and United Airlines, the Global Airline Partner for International Jazz Day.

About International Jazz Day
Established in 2011 by UNESCO and recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, International Jazz Day aims to unite countries and communities every April 30, celebrating the powerful influence of jazz in promoting peace, cultural dialogue, diversity, and human dignity. This global movement reaches more than two billion people annually, led by the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, the organization responsible for producing International Jazz Day.

For further information and to register events, visit jazzday.com or unesco.org/en/international-jazz-day.