If you love classical music, Dubai has some good news. HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, has founded the Dubai Orchestra Foundation.
What The Foundation Aims To Do
The foundation will work to advance the arts and orchestral music in Dubai, raising the city’s regional and international cultural standing while preserving its local artistic heritage. It will also provide a platform for musical talent in the UAE to develop their skills and support Dubai’s musical infrastructure, including music education and production.
The wider goal is to strengthen the city’s creative economy and position Dubai as a leading destination for culture, arts and cultural tourism, while encouraging investment in the music and performing arts industries.
A Local Orchestra Is On The Way
One key responsibility of the foundation will be to establish a local orchestra. It will promote Emirati musical heritage and support emerging talent, including People of Determination.
Residents can also look forward to an annual calendar of musical events, alongside performances by international orchestras. The foundation is expected to strengthen its collaborations with orchestras and cultural institutions around the world. Details about the Dubai orchestra itself have not yet been announced.
The UAE’s Orchestral Scene So Far
The announcement builds on a growing orchestral presence in the country. The UAE National Orchestra held its inaugural concert in January 2026. Made up of 70 musicians and a 30-member choir of local talent, it brings together Arabic and Western musical traditions. The debut programme featured The Beginning, a new work by Lebanese composer Nadim Tarabay, inspired by Emirati musical traditions including Ayala and Taghrooda.
Then there is the all-women Firdaus Orchestra, created for Expo 2020 Dubai under the direction of Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman. Its musicians come from more than 24 nationalities and perform everything from Arabic classics to Western compositions and contemporary arrangements, using regional instruments such as the oud, qanun and darbuka.
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What To Expect Next
For now, the foundation’s long-term direction is clear, even if concert dates and venues are yet to be shared. For anyone in Dubai who enjoys live music, this is one to watch, as it could mean more performances close to home and more routes into music for young local talent.
Cover Image Courtesy: Dubai National Orchestra/Website
FAQs
Have concert dates been announced?
Not yet. The foundation will host an annual calendar of musical events and performances by international orchestras, but dates and venues have not been shared.
Will Dubai have its own orchestra?
Yes. Establishing a local orchestra is one of the foundation’s key responsibilities. It will promote Emirati musical heritage and support emerging talent, including People of Determination.
