OVERVIEW
Art@Embassies is Abu Dhabi Festival’s flagship cultural diplomacy initiative, developed by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UAE embassies worldwide. Through discussions and cultural activities, the series showcases Emirati creativity, fosters intercultural dialogue, and promotes mutual understanding through the universal language of the arts.
Since its launch, Art@Embassies has engaged audiences across Seoul, Paris, London, Washington, D.C., New York, and Osaka, creating platforms that explore the role of the arts in advancing cultural diplomacy and strengthening international connections.
In 2026, the series continued its global reach with two distinguished editions. In January, Art@Embassies Beirut, moderated by journalist Majed Bu Hadeer, explored the legacy of visionary composer, playwright, and poet Mansour Rahbani. Held at the American University of Beirut, the discussion featured Oussama Rahbani, Hiba Tawaji, and H.E. Dr. Ali Bin Tamim, Secretary-General of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre.
In June, Art@Embassies Vienna, presented in collaboration with the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates to Austria and moderated by filmmaker Noor Kanoo, examined classical music as an instrument of cultural diplomacy. The discussion brought together Vienna Philharmonic General Manager Michael Bladerer, Concertmaster Yamen Saadi, and conductor, musicologist, and academic Dr. Toufic Maatouk.
Through these global conversations, Art@Embassies continues to strengthen the UAE’s role as a champion of dialogue, cultural exchange, and international understanding through the arts.
WASHINGTON, D.C., DEC 2026
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