ADMAF unveils “The Wisdom of Culture” as the theme for Abu Dhabi Festival 2026, celebrating 50 years of UAE–US cultural and diplomatic relations.
The 23rd Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 has officially revealed its powerful new theme, “The Wisdom of Culture,” highlighting culture as a driving force for dialogue, innovation, and global unity. Presented by Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), the Festival returns under the honorary founding patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and under the patronage of Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan.
The 2026 edition will celebrate 50 years of diplomatic and cultural relations between the UAE and the United States of America, which has been named the Country of Honour. The announcement also coincides with the USA’s upcoming 250th anniversary of independence, making the cultural partnership especially significant.
The Abu Dhabi Festival has played a leading role in cultural diplomacy in the UAE since 2004, showcasing world-class classical music performances, global artistic collaborations, premieres, and co-productions with top international institutions. The 2026 programme, to be announced soon, will feature international artists in Abu Dhabi alongside Emirati talent, reinforcing the capital’s status as a global cultural destination and a UNESCO City of Music.
As ADMAF marks 30 years of cultural leadership, it continues to champion youth development, creative industries, and arts education in the UAE, positioning Abu Dhabi as a beacon of tolerance, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange.
With the theme “The Wisdom of Culture,” the Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 reaffirms the UAE’s vision of using the arts to build bridges between nations and shape a future guided by peace, creativity, and meaningful dialogue.
For more information please about the Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 visit ADMAF website: www.admaf.org
This annual pass in Abu Dhabi is valid for a limited time in December! Hurry up.