SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)

Abu Dhabi’s Mawhibaty programme continues to nurture emerging artistic talent, with 333 students participating in 2026 and several earning accolades at international competitions.

First launched in 2017, the Mawhibaty programme plays a pivotal role in after-school activities, dedicated to discovering and nurturing emerging artistic talents across the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Mawhibaty Concert 2026 was held on Saturday at the Cultural Foundation Theatre.

The event celebrated students’ artistic development through live musical and vocal performances.

In an interview with Aletihad, Lubna Al Teneiji, Outreach Section Head, Education & Outreach, at DCT Abu Dhabi, highlighted the programme’s achievements, student development and future plans.

"This year, we celebrate our students' talents reaching broader horizons; moving beyond training and skill development to active participation in local and international artistic and cultural experiences," she said.

She highlighted a student tour to Belgium and the Netherlands, alongside several international achievements.

Nourallah won first place and a special gold award at the World Youth & Teenage Music Competition, while Leian Al Ali performed in Chinese in China at the UAE Embassy’s invitation.

Zayed Al Zaabi also won the Gulf Steinway Competition and received an invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York.

"These achievements reflect our students' talent and dedication, as well as the impact of training and the support provided by teachers and families in helping them reach global stages."

Al Teneiji said the programme enrolled 333 students, including 166 in visual arts and 167 in music.

Their talents spanned piano, violin, oud, qanun, singing, ballet, sculpture, photography and traditional Emirati arts.

She emphasised the programme’s role in encouraging creativity and preserving cultural heritage. "This diversity reflects the programme’s commitment to fostering creativity, strengthening students' connection to their heritage and cultural identity," she added.

Pathway to Creativity

Al Teneiji attributed students’ artistic development to regular training, workshops and practical experience.

"We observe the students' growth in the quality of their performances, their self-confidence and their ability to perform before an audience and work within a team."

She highlighted pianist Zayed Al Zaabi, as well as Peter, a winner at the World Championship of Performing Arts, among the programme’s success stories.

"The ceremony also serves as an opportunity to celebrate students who have made remarkable progress through their dedication and perseverance," she said.

Al Teneiji explained that Mawhibaty combined specialised training with practical experience through performances, exhibitions and cultural events locally and internationally.

"The Mawhibaty programme transforms talent into a pathway for artistic development by combining specialised training with practical experience," she said.

She noted that these opportunities helped students develop professional skills and prepare for further studies and artistic careers.

Further, Al Teneiji outlined plans to expand talent identification through schools, develop progressive training pathways and strengthen partnerships with artistic and educational institutions.

"We aspire for Mawhibaty to become a comprehensive pathway for preparing a generation of artists and creatives capable of representing the UAE and contributing to its cultural future," she said.

She added that future priorities included expanding international participation, increasing opportunities for students of determination and strengthening family involvement.

"Our vision is for the student’s journey to span from the initial discovery of their abilities to the mastery of skills and experiences that equip them to build a sustainable artistic career."