The highlights and must-see events to expect when the festival makes its return this autumn.
Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 set to bring a diverse lineup of music, dance and cultural experiences
From live orchestras and iconic film scores to family-friendly cultural programmes, Abu Dhabi Festival will return this autumn with an exciting calendar of events across the capital.
Taking place from October 10 to December 19, the festival’s 23rd edition will showcase a wide range of performances, including orchestral concerts, jazz, ballet, dance, recitals and community programmes. The event will feature a mix of Emirati and international talent performing at venues throughout Abu Dhabi.
The UAE National Orchestra will take centre stage as the festival’s opening act.
The festival will kick off on October 10 with a special performance by the UAE National Orchestra at Etihad Arena.
The opening concert will be led by conductor François López-Ferrer and will feature acclaimed pianist David Khrikuli as part of the festival’s opening night programme.
Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Date: October 10, 2026
Hans Zimmer returns to Abu Dhabi
Oscar and Grammy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer will return to Abu Dhabi with his The Next Level tour, taking the stage at Etihad Arena on November 13.
The concert will showcase some of Zimmer’s most iconic film scores, performed alongside a live orchestra and enhanced with electronic elements for a spectacular musical experience.
Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Date: November 13, 2026
Tickets: Available through Platinumlist.
Children’s Biennale to make its debut
Children’s Biennale to bring outdoor art experiences for families.
Families will be able to explore the newly launched Children’s Biennale in November, which organisers describe as the Arab world’s first dedicated outdoor children’s art biennale.
Taking place at Umm Al Emarat Park, the programme will invite children to collaborate with teaching artists and create artworks using sustainable materials. The finished creations will be showcased across the park throughout November.
The initiative forms part of Abu Dhabi Festival’s programme of activities celebrating the UAE’s Year of the Family.
Venue: Umm Al Emarat Park, Abu Dhabi
When: November 2026
Music, dance and community events
Beyond its headline concerts, Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 will feature a diverse programme of jazz performances, ballet, dance showcases, recitals and large-scale productions at venues across the capital.
The festival will also continue its community and education initiatives, creating opportunities for schools, young people and families to engage with music, arts and cultural experiences.
Celebrating 23 editions of Abu Dhabi Festival
The 2026 edition of Abu Dhabi Festival follows the success of Abu Dhabi Festival Abroad, which welcomed more than 142,000 visitors across the United States, South Korea, Austria, Spain and Lebanon earlier this year, according to organisers.
This year’s festival also celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), established in 1996. The foundation launched Abu Dhabi Festival in 2004, which has since grown into one of the region’s leading cultural events.
