International Jazz Day Celebration Travels to Abu Dhabi in 2025

Danny Clinch

UNESCO has announced that International Jazz Day 2025 (April 30) will be celebrated in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Tangier, Morocco served as the global host city for this year’s celebration.

In a statement announcing next year’s locale, UNESCO director-general Audrey Azoulay said, “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.”

Added UNESCO goodwill ambassador Herbie Hancock, “Jazz is a language of unity and a beacon of hope that continues to inspire new generations of artists from all corners of the globe. In Abu Dhabi, a renowned group of international artists will join us to share their musical vision, build bridges through the power of music and create harmony in our diverse world.”

International Jazz Day 2025 will be presented in partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT). With a focus on the city’s Arab and Emirati musical heritage, the annual observance will introduce audiences to Arabic jazz by spotlighting the decades-long interplay between local musical traditions — through classical instruments such as the oud, qanun and ney — and jazz. In addition, educational programs and community outreach will be part of the celebration. Alongside music education program at local schools, higher-level learning institutions such as Berklee Abu Dhabi, New York University Abu Dhabi and other UAE-based universities will offer workshops and masterclasses.

“We are honored that Abu Dhabi has been selected as the global host for the 2025 edition of International Jazz Day,” stated DCT Abu Dhabi chairman HE Mohamed Al Mubarak. “This recognition underscores our city’s thriving music scene and unwavering commitment to cultural diversity and artistic excellence. As a UNESCO Creative City of Music, Abu Dhabi has long been a beacon of musical innovation, where traditional Arabian melodies blend seamlessly with global genres, creating a vibrant and unique cultural tapestry. Hosting International Jazz Day reaffirms our dedication to the arts and provides a global stage to showcase our dynamic music scene. Our city consistently celebrates and nurtures musical talent from around the world.”