Music lovers are invited to witness a landmark cultural moment as the UAE National Orchestra takes the stage for the first time during its inaugural season. The debut concert will be held on January 19 at Dubai Opera, bringing together 70 orchestral musicians and a 30-member choir for an evening celebrating the UAE’s evolving musical identity.

The programme will be headlined by the world premiere of The Beginning, an Emirati Symphony composed by Nadim Tarabay. The new work blends traditional regional musical motifs with the depth and structure of Western symphonic composition, reflecting the orchestra’s vision of bridging heritage and contemporary expression.

The concert programme also includes Alexander Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances from Prince Igor, presented in an oriental orchestral arrangement that highlights cross-cultural influences. In addition, acclaimed composer and oud virtuoso Naseer Shamma will be represented through Ishraq for oud and orchestra, as well as Journey of Souls for oud and qanun. Together, the repertoire traces a musical narrative that honours tradition while embracing innovation.

The inaugural performance marks a significant milestone for the UAE’s cultural scene, positioning the national orchestra as a new platform for artistic collaboration and original composition.

Ticket categories

Silver: AED 250

Gold: AED 350

Platinum: AED 450

VIP: AED 550

UAE National Orchestra Dubai Opera inaugural season classical music UAE Emirati symphony cultur