Abu Dhabi is Hosting World Jazz Day 2025

Landing this prestigious title is no accident. As a UNESCO Creative City of Music, Abu Dhabi has been making serious moves in the arts scene, nurturing talent through institutions like Berklee Abu Dhabi and NYU Abu Dhabi, while establishing itself as a global cultural hub. Now, the city is set to showcase jazz as a universal language that bridges cultures.

International Jazz Day in Abu Dhabi isn’t just about the concerts (though those will be spectacular). The celebrations will extend to schools, workshops, and masterclasses, inspiring the next generation of musicians to pick up a sax and start swinging. UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock is leading the charge, and a just-released teaser video featuring top global performers is already building anticipation. While the full line-up remains under wraps, expect an electrifying mix of jazz legends and emerging talent, all coming together for an unforgettable night.

Since its inception in 2011, International Jazz Day has reached over 2 billion people worldwide, celebrating jazz as a force for dialogue, freedom of expression, and cultural unity. With Abu Dhabi at the helm this year, it’s set to reach new heights – bringing the world to the UAE and the UAE to the world, one note at a time.