Abu dhabi: The UAE National Orchestra marked a defining cultural moment last night with its debut concert, The Beginning, held at the Emirates Palace Auditorium in Abu Dhabi. The performance, part of the Orchestra’s inaugural season, brought together 70 musicians and 30 choir members for its first full public concert, paying tribute to the UAE’s musical heritage while introducing a new national orchestral sound.
According to Emirates News Agency, in attendance was H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, alongside senior dignitaries, ministers from across the Emirates, ambassadors, and cultural leaders. The concert received a warm and emotional response, with prolonged applause and a standing ovation reflecting both the power of the performance and the significance of the evening.
Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State and Chairperson of the UAE National Orchestra, expressed that music has a unique ability to unite people, stirring emotion and deepening a sense of belonging. She emphasized that the UAE National Orchestra was established to celebrate Emirati heritage and reflect the confidence and pride that define the Emirates. The inaugural concert marked the beginning of a journey inviting audiences to be part of a musical movement that reflects the nation’s values, creativity, and unity.
The evening commenced with a specially developed performance honoring the origins of music in Emirati culture. This symbolic journey through melody, rhythm, voice, and place illustrated how music in the UAE has evolved from poetry, memory, community, and the natural environment. Traditional forms such as Taghrooda, Al-Ayyala, Al-Ahalla, and Nadba were featured, highlighting how music has preserved heritage and strengthened community bonds.
Sheikha Alia bint Khalid Al Qassimi, Managing Director of the UAE National Orchestra, noted that the orchestra reflects the pride, ambition, and cultural confidence of the UAE. The debut concert was about honoring the origins of Emirati sound and sharing its evolution. The performance brought musicians and voices together on one stage, marking the beginning of a national orchestra that belongs to the UAE and resonates with audiences across the country.
The concert’s programme included an eclectic mix of Arabic and Western traditions. The first half featured Alexander Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances from Prince Igor, Alisamadim by Ercan Saat§i, and Kaybolan Yillar by Sezen Aksu. The programme also showcased works by oud virtuoso Naseer Shamma, performed alongside qanun soloist Ayta§ Dogan with the full orchestra.
The concert concluded with the world premiere of The Beginning, an Emirati Symphony composed by Nadim Tarabay. This large-scale orchestral work pays tribute to the UAE’s musical story, drawing inspiration from Emirati culture, history, and landscape. The symphony reimagines core Emirati musical forms through a contemporary symphonic language, expressing a confident path for the future.
Amine Kouider, Artistic Director and Conductor of the UAE National Orchestra, stated that the concert declared the orchestra’s musical identity by fusing Arabic and Western traditions. This dialogue reflects the spirit of the UAE, allowing the music to speak with unity and emotional depth. The debut marks the beginning of a sound that will continue to grow and resonate across the Emirates.
Following its debut in Abu Dhabi, The Beginning will continue with performances across the Emirates throughout January, with additional concerts taking place in February and March 2026 as part of the UAE National Orchestra’s inaugural season.
