- The inaugural season spans all seven Emirates starting January 2026
- Emirati Symphony world premiere celebrates local heritage and creative pride
- Classical masterpieces meet traditional Arabic instruments in a fresh dialogue
- Diverse concert series explore romantic themes and ancient Sufi poetry
Modern culture enthusiasts are increasingly seeking experiences that blend traditional roots with global sophistication. The UAE National Orchestra just answered this call by unveiling its highly anticipated January to March 2026 schedule. This inaugural season isn’t just a series of concerts, it is a historic movement that brings world-class symphonic music to every single Emirate. By merging the grandeur of a seventy-piece orchestra with the soul of traditional Arabic instruments, the ensemble is redefining what a modern national identity sounds like.
The season opens with a powerful statement of intent. Titled “The Beginning,” this series features a world premiere by composer Nadim Tarabay that weaves Emirati motifs into a full symphonic form. It is a rare opportunity to hear a cultural declaration that feels both ancient and brand new. As global trends lean toward localized storytelling in high art, this performance places the UAE firmly at the center of the international musical map.
Beyond the initial fanfare, the orchestra explores deeply human themes through a unique regional lens. In “Faces of Love,” the haunting breath of the ney flute leads a journey through passion and eternity. Perhaps most intriguing is “Vivaldi: A Journey East,” which playfully speculates on a musical meeting between the Venetian master and the Silk Road. Hearing a qanun converse with a harpsichord offers a refreshing perspective on how connected our global histories truly are. For those who appreciate raw emotional power, the “Russian Classics” program brings the resilience of Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich to the stage, while “Echoes of Time” draws inspiration from the timeless Sufi wisdom of Ibn Arabi.
This tour represents a significant milestone for the arts in the region. By performing in venues ranging from the iconic Dubai Opera to cultural centers in Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, the orchestra ensures that high-caliber art is accessible to everyone. It is a bold step for a nation that continues to invest in the creative economy and the power of cultural exchange. Whether you are a lifelong classical fan or a curious newcomer, these performances offer a chance to be part of a historic first chapter.
Season Schedule and Tickets
The Beginning
- Abu Dhabi: 15th January 2026, 7:30 PM at Emirates Palace Auditorium Tickets
- Al Ain: 17th January 2026, 7:30 PM at Al Ain City Municipality Theatre Tickets
- Dubai: 19th January 2026, 8:00 PM at Dubai Opera Tickets
- Fujairah: 22nd January 2026, 7:30 PM at Fujairah Cultural Center Theatre Tickets
- Ras Al Khaimah: 24th January 2026, 7:30 PM at Ras Al Khaimah Cultural Center Theatre Tickets
- Sharjah: 29th January 2026, 7:30 PM at Fujairah Cultural Center Theatre Tickets
Faces of Love
- Abu Dhabi: 4th February 2026, 7:30 PM at Cultural Foundation Auditorium Tickets
- Fujairah: 26th March 2026, 7:30 PM at Fujairah Cultural Center Theatre Tickets
Vivaldi: A Journey East
- Abu Dhabi: 7th February 2026, 7:30 PM at New York University Theatre Tickets
Russian Classics
- Abu Dhabi: 14th February 2026, 7:30 PM at New York University Theatre Tickets
Echoes of Time: Ibn Arabi
- Abu Dhabi: 19th February 2026, 9:00 PM at Cultural Foundation Auditorium Tickets
- Ajman: 24th February 2026, 9:00 PM at Ajman Cultural Center Theatre Tickets
- Umm Al Quwain: 27th February 2026, 9:00 PM at Umm Al Quwain National Theatre Tickets
Secure your place at these historic performances. Book now at the official UAE National Orchestra website to experience a new era of sound!
