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Abu Dhabi Festival 2025: A Celebration of Cultural Harmony

The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) has unveiled an exciting programme for the upcoming Abu Dhabi Festival 2025, set to commence on February 7. This year marks the festival's twenty-second edition, themed "Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony." This theme pays homage to Japan, the festival's country of honour, as it celebrates over 50 years of diplomatic relations between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Japan.

Under the honorary patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the festival is expected to attract a diverse array of performers. Highlights include renowned orchestras, traditional taiko ensembles, opera performances, and solo recitals aimed at celebrating the artistic excellence of both the UAE and Japan. With a strong emphasis on community and educational programmes, the festival seeks to inspire the next generation of artists in the region.

One of the standout features this year includes a spectacular opening with the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of the illustrious Maestro Yutaka Sado. They will share the stage with star tenor Jonathan Tetelman and rising star pianist Kyohei Sorita. This two-day performance on February 7 and 8 promises to set the tone for the festival’s rich offerings.

The festival is not only about music but also showcases multiple art forms. Expect an array of visual arts exhibitions, alongside performances intended to engage audiences both locally and internationally. Additionally, the festival will feature a series of performances from the Japanese Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble, KODO, and virtuoso pianist Yunchan Lim, known for his exceptional interpretation of Bach's Goldberg Variations.

Participants can look forward to a variety of other performances, including a grand opera gala featuring tenor Javier Camarena and soprano Jessica Pratt, accompanied by the Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Toufic Maatouk. Renowned violinist Augustin Hadelich will also grace the stage, performing masterpieces from composers like Bach.

Furthermore, an All-Star Ballet Gala, featuring six world-acclaimed dancers, promises to add a taste of the classical dance tradition, while trumpeter Riley Mulherkar will deliver captivating rhythms that resonate with audiences. The festival aims to reinforce Abu Dhabi's cultural landscape, offering its citizens a taste of global artistry right at home.

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed emphasized that the festival serves as a bridge for cultural communication and understanding between different civilizations, reiterating the importance of friendship built over decades. This year’s festival aims to nurture dialogue and inspire further collaborative efforts between the UAE and Japan through an enriched cultural exchange.

Additionally, in a significant dedication to cultural diplomacy, the festival’s initiatives extend beyond borders. Special performances in collaboration with prestigious organizations and international artists are designed to enhance awareness of the rich Emirati culture while celebrating the cultural dynamism of Japan.

H.E. Huda Ibrahim Al Khamis-Kanoo, the founder of ADMAF and the festival itself, expressed her vision of harmony and unity, reflecting the festival’s integral mission. The programme promises various opportunities for international collaboration, including significant partnerships with arts institutions across the globe.

Tickets for the festival are already available for early purchase through the festival's official website, providing a chance for audiences to immerse themselves in a world of harmonious cultural exchange.

As the festival approaches, excitement continues to build, with expectations of creating memorable experiences that resonate with audience members of all ages, ensuring that Abu Dhabi remains a vibrant cultural hub. By bringing the best of global artistry to the UAE, the festival not only enriches Abu Dhabi's cultural ecosystem but also aligns closely with its vision of becoming an inclusive platform for multi-faceted artistic expressions.

For detailed schedules and updates regarding performers, visit the official Abu Dhabi Festival website.