Abu Dhabi Invites the World’s Composers to its International Competition

The Abu Dhabi International Competition for Composition has announced the opening of submissions for its second edition, extending an invitation to composers across the globe to participate in this prestigious celebration of contemporary musical creation. This distinguished competition offers two categories through which talented composers may showcase their artistry and originality.

The first category welcomes an original orchestral composition of approximately ten minutes in duration, providing composers with the opportunity to craft expansive, richly textured works for the full ensemble. The second category invites an original solo composition for piano of approximately five minutes, allowing for intimate and deeply personal musical expressions through this most beloved of instruments.

Submissions must meet exacting standards of originality and authenticity. Each work must be entirely original, unpublished, uncommissioned and previously unperformed, ensuring that the competition celebrates only the most fresh and untested creations from the world’s musical minds. This commitment to unveiling new voices and undiscovered talents reflects the foundation’s dedication to nurturing and advancing contemporary music on the global stage.

Composers interested in participating are invited to explore the full category requirements and submission guidelines through the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation’s official channels. The deadline for all submissions arrives at midnight on 31 December 2026, in the United Arab Emirates time zone, providing ample opportunity for musicians worldwide to prepare and submit their most inspired works.

This competition represents a remarkable platform for international composers to gain recognition within one of the world’s most vibrant and culturally progressive regions, whilst contributing to Abu Dhabi’s flourishing musical landscape and its position as a destination for artistic excellence.