Abu Dhabi Festival 2025: This April's Must-See Global Arts Spectacle

‍

‍

The Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 is back this April, and it's bigger, bolder, and more international than ever. With a dynamic mix of music, dance, theatre, and visual arts, this month-long cultural extravaganza showcases the best of local and global talent.

Expect world premieres, iconic performances, and a serious celebration of creativity and cultural exchange. Whether you're a local or visiting, the festival promises unforgettable moments.

‍

KODO: Heart-Pounding Drums That Shake the Soul

8–9 April 2025 | The Red Theater, NYU Abu Dhabi

Brace yourself for the Arab World Premiere of Kodo, Japan’s legendary taiko drumming troupe. Known for their explosive performances and massive drums (some weighing up to three tonnes!), Kodo has captivated audiences across 50+ countries.

Since their debut at Berliner Festspiele in 1981, Kodo has played over 7,000 shows, connecting deeply to rhythm, tradition, and pure energy. Presented in partnership with the Embassy of Japan in the UAE, this is more than a concert—it’s a cultural milestone.

‍

‍

Yunchan Lim: Classical Music’s Brightest Star

11 April 2025 | The Red Theater, NYU Abu Dhabi

Experience the magic of Yunchan Lim, the South Korean piano prodigy making his Arab World Premiere at just 21. Lim made headlines in 2022 as the youngest-ever Van Cliburn International Piano Competition gold medallist.

Praised for his intense emotional depth and technical mastery, Lim will perform Bach’s Goldberg Variations, a crown jewel of the classical repertoire. His performances have sparked global buzz—now Abu Dhabi gets to witness it live.

‍

‍

Kuniko Kato: The Marimba Marvel

14 April 2025 | The Blue Hall, NYU Abu Dhabi

Renowned Japanese percussionist Kuniko Kato makes her Arab World Premiere, bringing her signature blend of musical intelligence and emotional clarity. Known for her acclaimed album Kuniko Plays Reich, Kato bridges traditional technique with contemporary expression.

Her interpretations of works by Xenakis, Reich, Arvo Pärt, and more have earned her global recognition. This performance is a rare chance to see a true master of the marimba deliver a performance that’s both technically stunning and deeply moving.

‍

‍

More Than a Festival—It’s a Movement

Alongside these extraordinary performances, the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 boasts a full calendar of artistic programs, exhibitions, and community experiences that reflect the city's growing cultural ecosystem that embodied Abu Dhabi as a global arts destination.

‍

‍