In the heart of the United Arab Emirates, the Abu Dhabi Music Arts Foundation (ADMAF) has unfurled the vibrant tapestry of its 21st Abu Dhabi Festival 2024, a celebration poised to transcend boundaries and resonate as a beacon of cultural excellence and unity. Under the distinguished patronage of H.H. Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent for Women Affairs, and Chairperson of the Higher Committee of the Ataya Initiative, this edition carries the poignant slogan, “The Will of Hope.”
One of the notable features of this festival lies in its commitment to philanthropy. ADMAF has announced that a portion of the ticketing revenue will be directed to the “Tarahum for Gaza” campaign, in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC). This intersection of culture and humanitarianism underscores the festival’s dedication to creating a positive impact beyond the realms of artistic expression.
The Abu Dhabi Festival 2024 promises a kaleidoscopic celebration of artistic diversity, with a captivating lineup featuring ballet, classical music, jazz, opera, and traditional Arabic events. The festival’s educational community program will run in tandem, fostering a holistic engagement with the arts that extends beyond performance venues.
In a nod to global harmony, the 21st edition of the festival designates the People’s Republic of China as the guest of honor, commemorating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UAE and China. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Founding Honorary Patron of the Abu Dhabi Festival, emphasized that the festival’s launch into its third decade aligns with Abu Dhabi’s cultural vision. This vision not only cements the UAE’s presence on the global stage but also underscores the pivotal role of culture and the arts in fostering hope, promoting coexistence, peace, and human fraternity.
The festival takes on added significance as it coincides with the UAE’s 52nd National Day celebrations and the hosting of the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28). Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed noted that this dual celebration reflects the UAE’s commitment to environmental awareness and the global fight against climate change. It’s a reminder that cultural events can serve as powerful platforms for advocating sustainability and environmental stewardship, contributing to the ongoing dialogue on preserving the earth’s resources for future generations.
Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Youth, highlighted the strategic importance of such events in consolidating the UAE’s cultural efforts. The Abu Dhabi Festival, in its 21st edition, stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to nurturing and showcasing artistic talents, creating bridges of dialogue, and fostering communication between cultures.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, emphasized the festival’s alignment with the UAE’s cultural vision, aimed at nurturing creativity and providing support for artistic talents. The Abu Dhabi Festival, he noted, plays a crucial role in building bridges of dialogue and communication between cultures while reinforcing noble human values.
In essence, the Abu Dhabi Festival 2024 emerges not merely as a cultural spectacle but as a harmonious symphony, where the notes of artistic brilliance, global collaboration, and humanitarian endeavors converge to create an unforgettable melody – a melody that resonates far beyond the stages and galleries, embodying the spirit of unity, hope, and cultural diplomacy.
ALKASSANDRA الكسندرا 