UAE’s National Youth Orchestra Makes Historic Carnegie Hall Debut with Support from Dubai Culture

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (4 July 2025) – The National Youth Orchestra of Dubai (NYO–Dubai), supported by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), has become the first ensemble from the UAE to perform at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York, showcasing the emirate’s creative youth on a global platform.

The landmark performance marked the highlight of a cultural journey supported through the Dubai Cultural Grant, a key initiative under the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy. The 70-member orchestra delivered a powerful concert that featured the premiere of Ensemble of Peace, composed by renowned Emirati musician Ihab Darwish.

The orchestra’s visit to New York also included immersive experiences at leading classical institutions. Guided by Co-Founder and Artistic Director Amira Fouad and Conductor Jonathan Winter Barrett, NYO–Dubai members visited Juilliard School, Steinway Hall, and participated in an exclusive masterclass with Helen Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director of the Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts.

Dubai Culture Director General Hala Badri, along with senior leadership, joined the orchestra on the tour, which included meetings with Steinway & Sons executives and discussions on educational partnerships in the UAE.

“This milestone reflects our commitment to nurturing emerging artistic talent and advancing Dubai’s position as a global hub for creativity,” Badri said. “The NYO–Dubai performance and cultural exchange initiatives align with the emirate’s creative strategy and recent launch of the Dubai Orchestra project.”

Amira Fouad added: “Performing at Carnegie Hall was a dream realized through years of dedication. Our young musicians proudly represented the UAE, and this moment marks the beginning of a strong partnership with Dubai Culture.”