Abu Dhabi Festival brings Vienna Philharmonic’s Summer Night Concert to global audiences
UAE-backed initiative highlights international artistic exchange
ABU DHABI – The Abu Dhabi Festival has continued its international cultural outreach by supporting the Vienna Philharmonic’s renowned Summer Night Concert, reinforcing its role in promoting intercultural dialogue through the arts.
Held under the founding patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Founding Honorary Patron of Abu Dhabi Festival, the initiative brought together leading figures from the world of classical music in Vienna.
As an Artistic and Cultural Partner of the annual open-air concert, Abu Dhabi Festival participated in this year’s edition, which was conducted by Lorenzo Viotti and featured acclaimed baritone Sir Bryn Terfel. The event took place at the Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, welcoming more than 60,000 attendees while reaching millions more through international broadcasts.
The Summer Night Concert is recognised as the second most-watched annual classical music event worldwide, following the Vienna Philharmonic’s New Year’s Concert, and has become a major platform for celebrating musical excellence and global cultural connections.
Cultural dialogue
The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) also collaborated with the UAE Embassy in Vienna to host its “Art @ Embassies” initiative, titled Classical Music as Cultural Diplomacy. The panel discussion examined the role of artistic partnerships in strengthening international connections and encouraging cultural exchange.
The session featured Michael Bladerer, Managing Director of the Vienna Philharmonic, Yamen Saadi, Concertmaster for the Vienna Philharmonic, and Lebanese conductor and musicologist Toufic Maatouk. Emirati filmmaker Noor Kanoo moderated the discussion, which focused on the relationship between Middle Eastern and European musical traditions.
Arts exchange
The speakers explored how musicians and cultural institutions contribute to global dialogue by creating opportunities for collaboration, diversity and shared artistic experiences. Discussions also highlighted the role of classical music in reflecting cultural heritage while building bridges between communities.
Through the Abu Dhabi Festival Abroad programme, ADMAF continues to expand the UAE’s presence in international cultural platforms, showcasing the arts as a tool for connection and exchange across borders.