Abu Dhabi Festival's 23rd Edition Celebrates the Wisdom of Culture

The Abu Dhabi Festival returns for its 23rd edition in 2026 under the theme "Wisdom of Culture," celebrating 50 years of UAE-US diplomatic relations while positioning culture as a bridge between nations. The festival will honor the United States as its guest of honor, marking five decades of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, praised the festival's role as a model for cultural diplomacy since its founding in 2004. He emphasized how the event has strengthened the UAE's position as a global beacon for thought and cultural dialogue.

"The festival embodies the UAE's vision of culture and arts in spreading values of understanding, coexistence, peace, and sustainable development in communities," Sheikh Abdullah said. He highlighted how the festival has maintained the balance between preserving identity and embracing modernity and innovation over more than two decades.

The 2026 program will feature world-class musical performances and partnerships with major cultural institutions and international festivals. The festival aims to bring top global artists to Abu Dhabi's stages while ensuring Emirati creators perform alongside their international counterparts.

The "Wisdom of Culture" theme reflects the belief that culture serves as a universal language that inspires creativity, drives innovation, and strengthens bonds across borders. This approach aligns with the UAE's broader cultural strategy of using arts to foster international understanding and dialogue.

As the guest of honor, the United States will showcase its cultural ties with the UAE through inspiring events and cross-cultural initiatives. The collaboration celebrates more than 50 years of diplomatic relations and demonstrates both countries' shared commitment to artistic innovation and cultural exchange.

The Abu Dhabi Culture and Arts Group, which organizes the festival, is celebrating its own 30-year milestone under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. The organization has focused on enriching Abu Dhabi's cultural vision and empowering the UAE's creative industries through youth investment, artist support, and audience inspiration.

This edition reinforces the UAE's belief in culture's transformative power to bring people together and create meaningful connections across different backgrounds and nationalities. The festival continues to serve as a platform where local and international talents can collaborate and share their artistic visions with global audiences.