BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
The UAE has begun a new cultural chapter, not one written in words or drawn in architecture, but composed of sound.
The UAE National Orchestra (UAENO) has launched its inaugural season, presenting to the country its first-ever national symphony.
Fresh off its first public performance at the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations at the Zayed National Museum, the Orchestra gathered once again, this time to share the philosophy behind its sound, and its long-term mission to shape the UAE’s musical future.
“Rooted in heritage and forward-looking, the UAE National Orchestra reflects the pride and ambition of our nation,” said Sheikha Alia bint Khalid Al Qassimi, Managing Director of the Orchestra, speaking to the press on Tuesday.
“The National Orchestra brings together talents from many cultures under one vision, which is creating music that belongs to the Emirates and connects with audiences across the country.”
The Orchestra received over 3,200 audition applicants from more than 90 countries, and now consists of 70 musicians and 30 choir members, an ensemble that reflects the UAE’s inclusive spirit.
A moment of pride was hearing the first notes of the UAENO as they performed the national anthem during Eid Al Etihad, Al Qassimi recalled.
The Orchestra’s musical philosophy is influenced by Arabic and Western musical tradition, according to Artistic Director and Conductor Amine Kouider.
“Music is a language of understanding. When Arabic and Western instruments share one stage, they do more than produce sound, they engage in a conversation that reveals new meaning,” he said.
The First Season
This philosophy forms the foundation of the Orchestra’s inaugural season, starting on January 15, 2026, with “The Beginning”, an event that will introduce the nation to the Orchestra’s new artistic voice.
“This first season is more than programming, it is a musical manifesto. We wanted every piece to reflect who we are as a national orchestra, rooted in Emirati heritage, yet boldly exploring new artistic frontiers,” Kouider said.
From “Vivaldi: A Journey East to Once Upon a Tune and Three Rhapsodies One World”, the season spans classical masterworks, Emirati-inspired compositions, children’s programming and collaborations that speak to the UAE’s multicultural identity.
Kouider noted that shaping the season required carefully matching the repertoire with the capabilities and personalities of the musicians.
One of the defining characteristics of the inaugural season is its reach across the entire country. The Orchestra will perform at 10 venues across the seven emirates, ensuring equal access to audiences everywhere, Al Qassimi said.
“The UAE is our home, we are anchored in Abu Dhabi, but we are going to all seven emirates. We want to tap into different communities with different backgrounds,” she added.
Music Mentorship
The Director also announced the launch of the Orchestra’s 12-month Emirati Capacity Building Programme, in April 2026. The initiative will select 10–12 Emirati musicians for paid mentorship, rehearsal participation, instrumental workshops, and music theory training.
“Nurturing Emirati musicians is very central to our mission,” Al Qassimi said.
The programme is designed not only to train musicians, but to create a sustainable pipeline that supports the UAE’s long-term cultural vision, she noted.
In an exclusive interview with Aletihad, Al Qassimi highlighted that the Orchestra is partnering with the Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Education, and with local governments across all the emirates to bring the Orchestra to people and to groom the next generation in music.
This outreach will include workshops, school visits, and educational performances, promoting music appreciation among the country’s youth, she said.
She also confirmed the Orchestra is collaborating with youth music organisations, including the Abu Dhabi youth orchestra and Dubai youth orchestra, to build pathways for long-term musical careers.
Both Al Qassimi and Kouider emphasised that the Orchestra aims to be innovative in its work. “Preserving heritage is essential, but it must evolve,” Al Qassimi added.
Beyond Borders
She also confirmed that while the Orchestra’s first years will focus on performing throughout the UAE, plans for regional and international tours are on the horizon.
“We definitely see the UAE National Orchestra as a cultural ambassador for the country,” Al Qassimi said.
“Music allows a nation to speak without words. Through the UAE National Orchestra, we hope to express the values and identity of a young country with an ancient cultural heartbeat,” Kouider added.