Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 to Run from October 10 to December 19

The 23rd edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival will take place from 10 October to 19 December 2026, bringing nearly two months of cultural performances and artistic experiences to the UAE capital. This year's festival will be held under the theme "The Wisdom of Culture," highlighting the UAE as a place where cultural heritage, creativity and international dialogue come together.

International Success Sets the Stage for Abu Dhabi Programme

The main programme in Abu Dhabi follows another successful year for Abu Dhabi Festival Abroad, which has welcomed more than 142,000 visitors across the United States, South Korea, Austria, Spain and Lebanon during 2026. The strong international response has paved the way for the festival's upcoming events in Abu Dhabi.

Programme Features World-Class Performances Across the Capital

Throughout the festival, audiences will enjoy performances by leading UAE cultural institutions, Emirati artists and internationally recognised performers. The programme includes orchestral concerts, jazz performances, ballet, dance productions, solo recitals and large-scale stage shows at some of Abu Dhabi's most important cultural venues.

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UAE National Orchestra to Open the Festival

The festival will officially begin on 10 October at Etihad Arena with a special opening concert by the UAE National Orchestra under the direction of François López-Ferrer.

The opening evening will also feature acclaimed pianist David Khrikuli, widely recognised as one of the most promising young musicians of his generation. His performance will celebrate artistic excellence and mark the beginning of the festival's 2026 season.

Hans Zimmer to Perform at Etihad Arena

One of the biggest highlights of this year's programme will be the appearance of internationally celebrated film composer and music producer Hans Zimmer on 13 November at Etihad Arena.

His arena production will present new orchestral and electronic interpretations of some of his most famous film scores, creating an immersive live music experience for audiences in Abu Dhabi.

Family and Community Programmes Continue in 2026

Alongside its performance schedule, the festival will continue its long-running community and educational initiatives. In recognition of the UAE's declaration of 2026 as the Year of Family, these programmes will provide greater access to arts, music and culture for schools, young people and families across the community.

Children's Biennale to Make Its Debut

Families will also be able to experience the first Children's Biennale, which will launch in November 2026 as the Arab world's first dedicated outdoor children's art biennale.

Held at Umm Al Emarat Park, the initiative reflects the values of the UAE's Year of Family by celebrating family connections, togetherness and creativity through art. Children will work with teaching artists to create artworks using sustainable materials, and the completed pieces will be displayed throughout the park during November.

Festival Marks Three Decades of ADMAF

Presented under the theme "The Wisdom of Culture," the 2026 edition continues the mission that the Abu Dhabi Festival has followed since it was first launched in 2004—encouraging cultural exchange through the arts.

The festival will also celebrate the 30th anniversary of its founding organisation, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), which was established in 1996.