Abu Dhabi is gearing up to take centre stage as the Global Host City for International Jazz Day 2025, a prestigious event celebrated in over 190 countries on April 30. Organised by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz in collaboration with DCT Abu Dhabi, the event promises five weeks of world-class concerts, cultural initiatives, and educational programmes.

The event will take place on April 30 at Etihad Arena.

A Historic Moment for Abu Dhabi

UNESCO’s Director-General Audrey Azoulay praised Abu Dhabi’s designation as a ‘City of Music’, highlighting the city’s rich heritage, artistic vibrancy, and commitment to cultural exchange.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s Chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak called the event a “milestone”, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role in promoting peace, unity, and creative expression through jazz.

A Star-Studded Global Concert at Etihad Arena

Headlining the International Jazz Day 2025 ‘All-Star’ Global Concert are jazz legend Herbie Hancock and Academy Award-winning actor Jeremy Irons, alongside a dazzling lineup of international artists including, Arqam Al Abri (UAE), John Beasley (USA), Dee Dee Bridgewater (USA), A Bu (China), Terri Lyne Carrington (USA), Kurt Elling (USA), José James (USA), Rhani Krija (Morocco), John McLaughlin (UK), Hélène Mercier (France/Canada), Marcus Miller (USA), Linda May Han Oh (Australia), John Pizzarelli (USA), Dianne Reeves (USA), Arturo Sandoval (USA), Naseer Shamma (Iraq), Danilo Pérez (Panama), and Varijashree Venugopal (India). Additional artists will be announced in the coming weeks.

Watch It Live: The concert will be broadcast worldwide via UNTV, UNESCO, Facebook, YouTube, and other global media platforms.

A Month-Long Celebration of Jazz in Abu Dhabi

Beyond the main event, “Jazz Month in Abu Dhabi” will bring the spirit of jazz to the entire city with:

• Live performances and artist residencies
• Workshops & educational events
• Fusion performances blending jazz with Arabic instruments like the oud, qanun, and ney

This year’s International Jazz Day will also coincide with the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, featuring panel discussions with Herbie Hancock and top music icons.