World-class performances, innovative exhibitions, and engaging programmes for families
PARTNER CONTENT: It’s now time to step into a world of creativity and imagination at the Cultural Foundation, where Abu Dhabi comes alive with a dazzling programme of performances, exhibitions, and community activities running through May 2026.
This season invites visitors of all ages to explore, experience, and be inspired; whether it’s through breathtaking ballet, interactive workshops, captivating theatre, or cutting-edge exhibitions.
From first-time visitors to lifelong art lovers, every corner of the Foundation promises a journey full of wonder, discovery, and unforgettable cultural moments that celebrate Abu Dhabi as a true hub of art and creativity.
Performances
February kicks off with a highly anticipated orchestral evening by internationally acclaimed composer Iyad Rimawi on 7 February, followed by a special film screening of Akram Khan’s Giselle on 15 February, presented by the English National Ballet in collaboration with the British Embassy UAE.
On 27 March, audiences can experience Reema: Queen of the Desert, an original Emirati theatre production exploring themes of courage, belonging, and human-nature connection.
April brings Riyahiyat, a ladies-only immersive musical led by celebrated vocalist Lamia Riahi, blending golden-era Arab music with contemporary interpretations to create a unique cross-generational experience. On 24 and 25 April, audience can enjoy the much-loved family favourite The Tiger Who Came to Tea, a colourful and interactive stage experience filled with music, humour, and imaginative storytelling.
On 1 May, Boom Diwan performs contemporary Khaleeji jazz, combining traditional Gulf rhythms with modern improvisation, followed by The Way Back Home on 8–9 May, a charming, intergalactic-themed adaptation for children by award-winning author Oliver Jeffers.
The season concludes with the European Film Festival 2026 from 19–24 May, presenting curated films, filmmaker discussions, and audience interactions in partnership with the European Delegation to the UAE.
Exhibitions
Cultural Foundation’s exhibitions offer a deep dive into contemporary art and global perspectives.
On 26 March, Shezad Dawood: Skin of Dreams opens, marking the first mid-career retrospective for the artist.
Featuring over 40 works spanning painting, sculpture, monumental film installations, and virtual reality, the exhibition explores imagination, history, architecture, music, science, and global cultural traditions, all while interacting with the Foundation’s Bauhaus-inspired architecture.
Ongoing exhibitions include Two Clouds in the Night Sky, a meditative and process-driven body of work by Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim inspired by the landscapes of Khor Fakkan, and And After, curated by Dirwaza Curatorial Lab, which explores the element of air through Arabic concepts such as Sukoon, Hawaa, Naseem, and Riyah, featuring 15 mixed-media works.
Both exhibitions will remain open until 22 February.
Public Programmes
The season is complemented by an extensive range of workshops, tours, talks, and community programmes designed to inspire creativity for all ages.
Abu Dhabi Children’s Library
The Library provides a dynamic learning space for children up to 14, offering fiction, non-fiction, autobiographies, and reference materials in multiple languages.
Programmes include early childhood development, reading, writing, arts, crafts, and interactive exploration.
In 2026, aligned with Abu Dhabi’s ‘Year of Family,’ the Library will launch a year-long Art of Parenting series, alongside workshops and immersive activities that inspire literacy, creativity, critical thinking, and community engagement.
Art Studios: Bait Al Khatt & Al Marsam Al Hor
The Foundation’s art studios continue to provide courses and workshops for adults and children in disciplines such as painting, sculpture, pottery, Arabic calligraphy, fashion design, and sewing.
Seasonal camps and special programmes allow participants to develop artistic skills while exploring creativity in inclusive, inspiring environments.
Visitor Information: General admission is free, with tickets required for specific shows and workshops. The Foundation is open Saturday–Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm, and Fridays from 2 pm to 8 pm. For more information, visit culturalfoundation.ae
Follow Yalla for all the latest news
