International Jazz Day 2025: A Global Celebration in Abu Dhabi

On April 30, 2025, International Jazz Day will captivate audiences in over 190 countries, with Abu Dhabi proudly selected as the global host city. This event, organized by UNESCO alongside the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, promises an extraordinary lineup of performances, educational activities, and cultural initiatives celebrating the beauty of jazz music.

A Creative Hub for Jazz

Abu Dhabi, recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Music, will serve as the heartbeat of this worldwide celebration. Kicking off five weeks of events, participants can look forward to a rich array of jazz concerts, educational programs, and community activities.

The centerpiece of the celebrations will be the All-Star Global Concert, held at the renowned Etihad Arena, the largest performance venue in the region. This concert, which will be broadcast live across the globe, will feature the legendary Herbie Hancock as musical director and will be hosted by the Academy Award-winning actor Jeremy Irons. An impressive line-up of musicians from diverse genres including jazz, blues, classical, and hip-hop will participate, including artists such as Arqam Al Abri from the UAE, Dee Dee Bridgewater from the USA, and José James, among others.

Celebrating Cultural Diversity and Connection

“This year’s celebration in Abu Dhabi underscores the cultural wealth and creativity of the city,” said Audrey Azoulay, the UNESCO Director-General. Furthermore, the event highlights jazz’s unique ability to bridge communities, promoting understanding and dialogue across cultures and continents. Herbie Hancock shared his vision, stating, “Jazz has always aimed to bring people together, break down barriers, and inspire creativity through different cultures.”

Tickets for this spectacular concert are available for purchase, and the event will also be streamed live to millions through platforms such as Facebook and YouTube, ensuring global access to the festivities.

Worldwide Engagement

International Jazz Day is not just limited to Abu Dhabi; it will be celebrated across the globe with thousands of events designed to reflect jazz’s influence as a unifying force. Musicians, educators, and cultural institutions will host masterclasses, jam sessions, workshops, and discussions that delve into jazz’s profound impact on society.

In Abu Dhabi, a comprehensive month-long series of events will take place at several cultural and educational institutions including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and NYU Abu Dhabi. Special performances will explore jazz’s integration with traditional instruments like the oud and qanoon, showcasing the genre’s adaptability and rich heritage.

A Collaborative Cultural Summit

The International Jazz Day 2025 coincides with the Abu Dhabi Culture Summit, an annual event that gathers leaders from the cultural and creative industries to engage in working sessions and dialogues with renowned artists such as Herbie Hancock.

Significant support for this occasion comes from the Doris Duke Foundation and United Airlines, the global airline partner of International Jazz Day.

About International Jazz Day

Established by UNESCO in 2011 and recognized by the United Nations General Assembly, International Jazz Day serves as a global reminder of jazz’s power to foster peace and cultural dialogue, while celebrating diversity and respect for human dignity. The event is now a worldwide movement that touches over 2 billion people annually. The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz plays a crucial role in orchestrating this global celebration.

To learn more about this monumental event and register local activities, please visit www.jazzday.com or www.unesco.org/en/international-jazz-day.