International Jazz Day 2025: A Spectacular All-Star Concert in Abu Dhabi
A Night to Remember: International Jazz Day 2025 in Abu Dhabi
The 14th annual International Jazz Day was celebrated on April 30 in a spectacular fashion at the Etihad Arena, located in the vibrant city of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This year, the event culminated in an unforgettable All-Star Global Concert, showcasing top talent from across the globe, all united by their passion for jazz music.
The Event
Hosted by the renowned actor Jeremy Irons and directed by jazz legend Herbie Hancock, the concert featured a diverse ensemble of artists hailing from 14 different countries. Notable performers included Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kurt Elling, Ruthie Foster, José James, and John McLaughlin, to name just a few. The event was not just a concert; it was a celebration of global unity and cultural dialogue through the universal language of music.
The day began with a ceremonial opening at Qasr Al Watan, the Palace of the Nation, where the arrival of International Jazz Day was officially welcomed by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairperson of the Department of Culture and Tourism. Esteemed guests, including UNESCO's Deputy Director-General for Culture, Ernesto Ottone, spoke about the importance of jazz music in fostering peace and understanding among cultures.
A Musical Journey
Among the concert's many highlights was a stunning solo performance of Herbie Hancock's iconic piece,