Mohammed bin Rashid Announces Establishment of Dubai Orchestra Foundation to Strengthen Music and Performing Arts
Dubai takes another significant step towards strengthening its cultural landscape with a new foundation dedicated to orchestral music, artistic excellence and Emirati musical heritage. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued Law No. (20) of 2026, officially establishing the Dubai Orchestra Foundation, a new cultural institution aimed at advancing orchestral music and supporting the growth of Dubai's performing arts sector.
The Foundation will play an important role in developing Dubai's musical landscape while strengthening the emirate's position as a regional and international centre for arts and culture. It will focus on preserving the UAE's musical traditions, encouraging artistic innovation and creating opportunities for musicians and emerging talent. A key objective of the initiative is to establish a local orchestra that represents Dubai's growing cultural ambitions. The orchestra will participate in performances both within the UAE and internationally, showcasing musical excellence while introducing global audiences to the country's artistic identity and heritage.
The Foundation will also contribute to the development of musical infrastructure across Dubai. Through partnerships, educational programmes and professional opportunities, it aims to nurture talented musicians, support music production and encourage the growth of orchestral performances throughout the emirate. Special attention will be given to supporting young and emerging artists, including People of Determination, ensuring that opportunities in music and performing arts are accessible to a wider community. As part of its cultural mission, the Dubai Orchestra Foundation will develop an annual programme of concerts, performances and musical events. It will also welcome international orchestras, encourage artistic exchanges and build partnerships with leading cultural institutions and music organizations around the world.
These initiatives are expected to enhance Dubai's creative economy by attracting investment in the music and entertainment sectors, expanding cultural tourism and creating new opportunities for artistic collaboration. Under the new Law, the Foundation will operate under the supervision of a Board of Trustees, consisting of a Chairman, Vice Chairman and members with relevant professional expertise. The Board will be appointed by the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai and will oversee the Foundation's strategic direction, policies, financial planning and overall operations.
The Board will also be responsible for appointing the Foundation's Chief Executive Officer and Artistic Director, ensuring that its artistic vision and administrative responsibilities are effectively managed. The Foundation's executive body will include the CEO and a team of administrative, financial and technical professionals. The CEO will report directly to the Board and oversee daily operations, programme implementation and the achievement of the Foundation's objectives. The Law further directs relevant government entities to cooperate with and support the Foundation in fulfilling its responsibilities, in line with applicable regulations and the directives of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and the Community Development Authority.
The establishment of the Dubai Orchestra Foundation reflects Dubai's continued commitment to investing in culture as an essential part of its social and economic development. By bringing together musical heritage, contemporary performance, education and international collaboration, the initiative is expected to open a new chapter for orchestral music in the emirate. More than a new cultural institution, the Dubai Orchestra Foundation represents a long-term vision to celebrate musical creativity, empower future generations of artists and strengthen Dubai's presence on the global cultural stage. The Law will come into effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette.
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UAE Cultural Developments | Music & Performing Arts | Dubai 2026