ADMAF Unveils ‘Wisdom of Culture’ as Theme of 23rd Abu Dhabi Festival

Abu dhabi: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Founding Honorary Patron of Abu Dhabi Festival, and H.H. Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Patron of the Abu Dhabi Festival, the Abu Dhabi Festival is set to return for its 23rd edition with the theme 'The Wisdom of Culture.' Presented by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF), the festival aims to foster understanding and unite nations through cultural exchange, creativity, and innovation. According to Emirates News Agency, the 2026 edition will feature a headline programme of classical music performances and global collaborations, celebrating 50 years of diplomatic and cultural ties with the United States, the festival's Country of Honour. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed commended the festival's role in cultural diplomacy and its contribution to positioning the United Arab Emirates as a global centre for cultural dialogue. His Highness remarked that th e festival's theme embodies the UAE's vision for arts and culture as a catalyst for fostering peace, harmony, and sustainable development. He emphasized the festival's role in uniting heritage and modernity and elevating Emirati creativity on the global stage. The 2026 edition will continue this legacy by bringing international artists to Abu Dhabi, a UNESCO City of Music, and showcasing Emirati talent. Celebrating the United States as the Country of Honour, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the enduring cultural ties between the nations and their shared commitment to peace and tolerance. The festival coincides with the United States' 250th anniversary of independence and aims to reflect their collective vision for cultural exchange through an inspiring programme. The Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, marking 30 years of service, remains committed to enriching Abu Dhabi's cultural vision and supporting the growth of the UAE's cultural and creative industries. The 2026 season underscores the nation's belie f in culture's transformative power, reaffirming Abu Dhabi's position as a beacon of cultural diplomacy and creativity on the global stage.