– Guided by Mohammed bin Rashid’s vision of positioning Dubai as a global cultural beacon and under Hamdan bin Mohammed’s directives
Hamdan bin Mohammed: Through its diverse projects and initiatives, Dubai continues to provide an inspiring model for cultural development, guided by Mohammed bin Rashid’s vision
– “Art is a universal language that connects people, and Dubai is a hub for initiatives that build bridges between cultures and celebrate creativity”
Latifa bint Mohammed: The ‘Dubai Orchestra’ project marks a significant milestone in strengthening Dubai’s presence on the global arts stage
“This project is a powerful reflection of Dubai’s creative scene, celebrating local talent, shaping a distinctive musical identity, and enhancing the city’s global standing in the cultural sector”
– The ‘Dubai Orchestra’ aligns with the objectives of Dubai’s Creative Economy Strategy and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
– The project advances the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 by positioning the city as a vibrant hub for cultural movements and creative expression.
– As a new pillar in Dubai’s creative landscape, the project energises the arts sector while driving economic and social development.
– Dubai Culture & Arts Authority will lead the project in collaboration with public and private sector partners.
– Emirati talent is set to represent 50% of the orchestra’s members by 2033.
Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the Executive Council has approved the ‘Dubai Orchestra’ project. This initiative aims to enhance the presence of Emirati arts and culture on the global stage, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global culture centre and a thriving hub for talent.
HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed affirmed that through its diverse projects and initiatives, Dubai continues to serve as a model for cultural development, following the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
His Highness stated, “Art is a universal language that connects people, and Dubai is a hub for initiatives that build bridges between cultures and celebrate creativity. We continue to support and empower the cultural and artistic sectors by establishing an integrated and sustainable infrastructure that promotes the growth of cultural industries and enriches the global cultural movement. With new initiatives, Dubai is poised to grow as a destination for international events, innovative ideas, and pioneering projects.”
His Highness noted that Dubai’s dynamic nature attracts exceptional talent within a thriving creative environment, emphasizing that the ‘Dubai Orchestra’ project reflects the spirit of the emirate and reinforces the values of creativity and innovation. He added, “We have approved the ‘Dubai Orchestra’ project as a key avenue for expanding international cultural collaboration, contributing to the development of the cultural and arts sectors, further highlighting Dubai’s rich cultural landscape and heritage.”
Centre for the Creative Economy
Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, affirmed that the approval of the ‘Dubai Orchestra’ project is a meaningful step toward reinforcing Dubai’s global cultural presence. This initiative reflects the emirate’s long-term vision to become a leading centre for the creative economy, nurturing future generations capable of expressing the universal language of creativity. Her Highness said, “Dubai’s position on the global cultural map arises from the clear vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The ‘Dubai Orchestra’ will elevate our community’s talent and showcase music’s powerful role in celebrating cultural diversity.”
She highlighted that the project represents a unique opportunity to strengthen Dubai’s creative scene, foster a distinct musical identity, and advance its global competitiveness in the cultural sectors. Her Highness added, “The ‘Dubai Orchestra’ will be a catalyst for growth, reflecting our commitment to elevating the music sector and deepening the arts’ role as a bridge between cultures. Music embodies one of humanity’s most enduring forms of connection—a powerful expression of identity, emotion, and shared experience. Through this initiative, we champion it as a vital part of Dubai’s future driven by knowledge and innovation.”
The ‘Dubai Orchestra’ project seeks to nurture a vibrant creative environment that advances the local music sector, attracts exceptional talent, and empowers homegrown creatives to pursue their passions while enriching Dubai’s musical landscape. It aligns with the objectives of Dubai’s Creative Economy Strategy and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aiming to position the emirate among the world’s top three urban economies, while also supporting Dubai Culture’s mandate to strengthen cultural industries.
Moreover, the project supports the goals of the ‘Dubai Social Agenda 33’ and its ambitious targets, particularly the objective of making Dubai the best city in terms of living experience and cultural vibrancy in the next decade.
Enriching the Cultural Landscape
The project signifies a significant new chapter in Dubai’s creative landscape, stimulating the arts sector and driving economic growth through cultural, social, and economic impacts. By embedding culture and the arts in everyday life, it deepens public appreciation while enriching Dubai’s cultural fabric.
The ‘Dubai Orchestra’ aims to have Emirati talent comprise 50% of its members by 2033. In the upcoming phase, the orchestra will roll out impactful initiatives focused on community engagement, including youth programs, strategic partnerships with community organizations, and educational opportunities that nurture artistic talent. These efforts aim to empower emerging musicians, elevate their skills, and position them to deliver compelling musical experiences while preserving and promoting the region’s living musical heritage.
The launch of the Dubai Orchestra supports the emirate’s goal of enhancing the quality of cultural life through artistic events, fostering a vibrant atmosphere, strengthening social cohesion, and providing a creative outlet for the next generation, particularly through collaborations with renowned orchestras worldwide.
