ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — Abu Dhabi Festival is set to return this autumn with an expanded lineup of international concerts, orchestral performances, dance productions and family experiences, bringing nearly two months of cultural events to venues across the capital.
Running from Oct. 10 through Dec. 19, the festival’s 23rd edition will feature Emirati and international artists in a program spanning classical music, jazz, ballet, contemporary dance, educational initiatives and community events.
UAE National Orchestra opens the festival
The festival will begin on Oct. 10 with a performance by the UAE National Orchestra at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.
The opening concert will feature conductor François López-Ferrer alongside pianist David Khrikuli, marking the start of this year’s cultural program.
Hans Zimmer returns to Abu Dhabi
One of the festival’s biggest attractions will be the return of Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, who will bring The Next Level world tour to Etihad Arena on Nov. 13.
The performance will showcase music from Zimmer’s acclaimed film scores, accompanied by a live orchestra, band and immersive stage production.
Tickets are available through Platinumlist.
Book tickets:
https://platinumlist.net
Children’s Biennale makes its debut
Families can also look forward to the launch of the Children’s Biennale, described by organizers as the Arab world’s first outdoor art biennale dedicated to children.
Scheduled for November at Umm Al Emarat Park, the initiative will invite young participants to create artworks using sustainable materials alongside professional teaching artists. Selected installations will be displayed throughout the park during the event.
The program forms part of activities supporting the UAE’s Year of the Family.
More music, dance and cultural experiences
In addition to its headline performances, Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 will present a broad calendar of jazz concerts, ballet productions, dance performances, recitals and large-scale artistic collaborations across multiple venues.
The festival will also continue its education and community outreach initiatives, providing schools, young musicians and families with opportunities to engage in workshops, performances and cultural programs.
A milestone year for ADMAF
This year’s edition also celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), the organization behind the festival.
Organizers said the festival builds on the international success of Abu Dhabi Festival Abroad, which attracted audiences across the United States, South Korea, Austria, Spain and Lebanon earlier this year.
As Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub for arts and culture, the 2026 festival is expected to draw residents and visitors seeking world-class performances throughout the autumn season.
For the full program and event updates, visit the official Abu Dhabi Festival website:
https://abudhabifestival.ae
Visitors can also find destination information and travel planning resources through Experience Abu Dhabi:
https://visitabudhabi.ae
