UAE Establishes National Orchestra to Foster Cultural Identity and Promote Artistic Excellence
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the “UAE National Orchestra” has been officially established, reflecting the nation’s commitment to advancing the arts and recognising their vital role in shaping cultural identity and fostering unity among its people.
The UAE National Orchestra will serve as a platform to showcase the country’s rich artistic diversity, blending traditional Emirati musical heritage with contemporary global styles, creating a harmonious cultural dialogue.
Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State and Chairperson of the UAE National Orchestra Board, is spearheading efforts to enhance the nation’s music sector, nurture emerging talent, and elevate the arts as a universal language bridging cultures worldwide.
The Board of Directors comprises eminent cultural, artistic, and academic figures, including:
- Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education
- Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture
- Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi
- Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President
- Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation
- Samira Murshid Al Rumaithi, Secretary-General of the Presidential Protocol and Strategic Narrative
- Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation
- Hamad Abdullah Al Zaabi, Director-General of the National Projects Office
- Ali Obaid Al Hefaiti, Director-General of Fujairah Fine Arts Academy
- Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42
- Artist Naseer Shamma, Founder of the Arab Oud House and UNESCO Artist for Peace
Al Kaabi highlighted the orchestra’s establishment as a testament to the leadership’s vision for arts development, which she described as a cornerstone for promoting cultural and human values, fostering societal progress, and reinforcing tolerance and coexistence.
“Through the UAE National Orchestra, we aim to enhance and showcase our local culture and arts, building bridges of communication with other world cultures. The orchestra will be a source of inspiration and a driving force in both local and global communities, reaffirming our commitment to supporting creativity and artistic excellence,” Al Kaabi remarked.
The National Orchestra will soon hold auditions for musicians and singers from all artistic backgrounds, with a particular focus on nurturing Emirati talent. Successful candidates will be offered full-time employment with competitive incentives and benefits.
Interested artists are invited to apply through the official website, www.uaenationalorchestra.ae, by submitting their applications and recorded musical samples by 26th January 2025.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s cultural journey, positioning the orchestra as a global beacon of artistic innovation and heritage preservation.
