Features 70 full-time musicians and 30 part-time choir members selected from over 3,200 applicants worldwide
The UAE National Orchestra has officially begun rehearsals in Abu Dhabi, marking a major milestone in its establishment as the nation’s official orchestra. Bringing together Emirati and international musicians, UAE National Orchestra begins shaping a sound that reflects the UAE’s identity, diversity, and ambition.
Established under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and led by Chairperson Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE National Orchestra represents a national institution built for the people, inclusive, accessible, and inspiring. Its mission is to carry the soul of the UAE’s musical heritage forward, connect diverse communities, and inspire a new generation of musicians and audiences alike.
The UAE National Orchestra reflects the country’s commitment to advancing the cultural and creative industries and nurturing a new generation of artistic talent. The Orchestra contributes to the Forward Society pillar of ‘We the UAE 2031’, promoting unity and a shared national identity through culture. As a national platform for artistic excellence, the Orchestra will strengthen the UAE’s cultural presence and bring music to audiences across all Emirates.
“The UAE National Orchestra is a reflection of who we are as a nation, proud of our roots, open to the world, and driven by a shared belief in creativity and collaboration. As rehearsals begin, we are witnessing the first notes of a new cultural story for the UAE, one that will connect people, inspire pride, and carry our music to every Emirate.”
– Sheikha Alia Bint Khalid Al Qassimi, Managing Director of the UAE National Orchestra
The Orchestra also supports the goals of the National Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries, reinforcing the role of the arts in sustainable development and social cohesion. Through its performances and collaborations, it seeks to inspire creativity, foster coexistence, and share the UAE’s cultural story with the world.
Following a nationwide and international audition phase that attracted more than 3,200 applications, 250 live auditions were held to select 70 full-time musicians and 30 part-time choir members. The ensemble represents a blend of Emirati talent and world-class performers from across the globe, embodying the UAE’s spirit of openness and collaboration.
The inaugural season will see performances in all seven Emirates, a first in the country’s history, taking orchestral music to new audiences and communities across the nation. Each concert will reflect the Orchestra’s mission to make music a shared national experience that connects communities, celebrates creativity, and builds cultural pride.
Under the artistic direction of Amine Kouider, the Orchestra will blend Arabic and Western musical traditions to create a sound that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in heritage. The result will be a musical identity that reflects the UAE’s forward-looking spirit and cultural richness, carried to every corner of the country through the inaugural season’s performances.
“An orchestra unites musicians and audiences through a shared language of music. As rehearsals begin, we can already feel the energy and connection among the musicians, each bringing their own story, style, and emotions. The UAE National Orchestra is creating a sound that expresses the heart of the Emirates and celebrates the diversity of voices that make this country unique.”
– Amine Kouider, Artistic Director and Conductor of the UAE National Orchestra
Over the coming months, the UAE National Orchestra will continue preparations for its inaugural season and future collaborations with renowned artists and institutions. Each performance will serve as an ambassadorial moment for the UAE, sharing its cultural story with the world through music.