A Fifteen Year Vision: Mubadala and Abu Dhabi Festival’s Transformative Partnership

The Abu Dhabi Festival stands as a testament to the profound belief that the arts possess the remarkable capacity to transform lives and elevate communities. This conviction has been realised through an enduring partnership with Mubadala, a relationship built on shared values and a collective commitment to enriching the cultural tapestry of the United Arab Emirates.

Over more than fifteen years, this collaboration has evolved into a powerful force for creative development and cultural advancement. The partnership has championed the work of more than two thousand Emirati artists, providing them with platforms, resources and opportunities to flourish. Beyond supporting established practitioners, the initiative has empowered more than seven thousand five hundred young people to engage meaningfully with the arts, equipping them with the skills and inspiration to contribute to the nation’s vibrant artistic and cultural landscape.

The vision that animates this partnership extends beyond patronage alone. It represents a deliberate effort to democratise access to the arts across the Emirates and beyond, recognising that cultural enrichment should be available to all. This ambition to nurture the next generation of talent reflects a deep understanding that investing in young creative minds today ensures a luminous cultural future for tomorrow.

As Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 approaches, the contributions of Mubadala as Lead Partner deserve particular acknowledgement. Their sustained commitment has been integral to the festival’s ability to advance its mission and to expand its reach, ensuring that the transformative power of artistic expression continues to touch ever more lives across the region.