Abu dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced the launch of 'Music in the City', a new year-round programme that brings live music into the everyday fabric of Abu Dhabi's public spaces.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme is designed to transform parks, promenades, malls, hotels, and cultural venues across the emirate into stages for musicians and artists, in the spirit of busker-style performances.
Anchored in Abu Dhabi's designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music, Music in the City seeks to integrate diverse musical programming into public spaces to foster liveability, resilience, and a sense of place. The initiative reflects the belief that in Abu Dhabi, music should be woven into daily life, encouraging people to feel inspired, curious, and connected through spontaneous musical experiences.
Launching in May 2026, Music in the City will feature a dynamic lineup of artists and ensembles performing across various locations in Abu Dhabi. 'UAE in Harmony', in cooperation with Yas Waterfront, will bring live music to Yas Bay, showcasing Arabic classical and contemporary music. The 'Fafa and Friends: ME Jazz and R and B' series will offer genre-blending performances at the Rosewood Hotel, combining Middle Eastern influences with jazz, R and B, and soul.
Other events include 'Arab Music Crossroads: Music in Parks', which will celebrate Arabic music in Abu Dhabi's parks, and the 'Youth Orchestra Chamber Music Series', offering accessible concerts in hotels and malls with a repertoire from classical to contemporary music. Iman Al Hashmi's 'Young Musicians Series' in partnership with the UAE Autoimmune Association will support emerging talent, while 'Kinder Musik' at Kidz Factory, Galleria Mall will provide an interactive musical experience for children.
Additionally, 'Melodica in Motion - Celebration of Young Talents' by Melodica Music will offer an interactive musical journey, and 'Voices of Harmony - Choir Group' will bring together diverse voices for expressive performances. On International Music Day, the 'Saadiyat Big Band Live' will perform jazz classics and contemporary arrangements.
The programme engages artists across genres and backgrounds, celebrating Abu Dhabi's rich multicultural identity through a mix of voices and artistic expressions, reinforcing its position as a global cultural crossroads. It aims to make live music a spontaneous and accessible experience for all while supporting DCT Abu Dhabi's mission to protect, preserve, and promote art and culture.