Abu Dhabi Announced As Global Host City For International Jazz Day 2025

International Jazz Day, celebrated annually on 30 April, honours the sound of artistic freedom worldwide. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock have announced that Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 edition. This event is presented in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

The celebration will highlight Abu Dhabi's rich cultural heritage, blending Arab and Emirati traditions. Classical instruments like Oud, Qanoon, and Ney will introduce global audiences to 'Arabic Jazz'. As a UNESCO Creative City of Music, Abu Dhabi will showcase its unique musical traditions alongside jazz.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, expressed pride in the city's selection as the Global Host for 2025. He stated, "We are honoured that Abu Dhabi has been selected as the Global Host for the 2025 edition of International Jazz Day. This recognition underscores our city’s thriving music scene and unwavering commitment to cultural diversity and artistic excellence."

Educational programmes and community outreach are integral parts of International Jazz Day. On 30 April, local schools across Abu Dhabi will engage in musical education. Higher-education institutions like Berklee Abu Dhabi and New York University Abu Dhabi will offer workshops and masterclasses to foster young musicians' interest in jazz.

Audrey Azoulay highlighted the significance of hosting the event in Abu Dhabi: "International Jazz Day heads to Abu Dhabi in 2025, infusing new energy and basking in the mélange of cultures. The celebration in this cosmopolitan city will embody the power of jazz to unite and delight in our shared humanity."

Global Impact of International Jazz Day

Established by UNESCO's General Conference in 2011 and recognised by the United Nations General Assembly, International Jazz Day unites countries and communities worldwide every 30 April. It celebrates jazz's ability to promote dialogue, freedom of expression, human rights, and diversity.

The global movement has reached over 2 billion people through education programmes, performances, community outreach, and online platforms. The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz leads the planning, promotion, and production of International Jazz Day each year.

Abu Dhabi's investment in culture has transformed it into a global arts destination. The city attracts world-class cultural institutions while supporting home-grown talent and its Arabic roots.

This event reaffirms Abu Dhabi's dedication to the arts by providing a global stage for its dynamic music scene. The city's blend of traditional Arabian melodies with global genres creates a vibrant cultural tapestry.

The 2025 edition promises to be a significant milestone for both jazz enthusiasts and the broader cultural community. It will highlight how music can bridge gaps between diverse cultures.

With inputs from WAM