From international cinema to boundary-pushing performances, these new events are on sale now
After a restful summer intermission, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi is back in full swing, unveiling the next wave of shows in its 11th season.
With performances that span theater, dance, cinema, and music, the fall lineup reflects the Center’s ongoing commitment to presenting bold, global storytelling.
While general tickets for the season are now on sale, select newly announced performances are being offered first to VIP Members, giving loyal patrons early access to some of the most anticipated cultural events this fall.
New shows just announced
CinemaNA: Happy Holidays by Scandar Copti
Tue, 28 October, The Blue Hall
Oscar-nominated filmmaker Scandar Copti returns with a poignant family drama set against social tension and personal dilemmas.
Following the screening, audiences can look forward to a live conversation with Copti himself.
Cineolio’s Cinenights – Curated by Nawaf Al Janahi
Tue, 28 October, The Blue Hall
A celebration of global short films curated by Emirati filmmaker Nawaf Al Janahi, Cinenights is a platform that amplifies new voices and bridges cultural dialogues through cinema.
CinemaNA: My Driver and I by Ahd Kamel
Tue, 4 November, The Blue Hall
Saudi filmmaker Ahd Kamel presents an emotional exploration of connection across cultural and class divides.
The screening includes a live Q&A with the director, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at her creative process.
Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper/Maryna Krut
Fri, 14 November, The Red Theater
A musical evening that brings together three world-class artists: Ballaké Sissoko, the kora master from Mali; Derek Gripper, South Africa’s trailblazing guitarist; and Maryna Krut, fusing Ukrainian folk with jazz and soul.
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Season already underway: Don’t miss these
A grand welcome: Faraj Suleiman makes his UAE debut
Fri, August 29, The Red Theater
Palestinian composer and pianist Faraj Suleiman is coming to Abu Dhabi for the first time; and bringing his full band with him.
If you haven’t heard his music yet, prepare to be moved. His sound is this incredible blend of jazz, Arabic maqams, classical piano, and even a touch of rock.
But what really sets Suleiman apart is how personal his music feels. It’s playful, emotional, introspective; all at once.
His performance is more than just a concert; it’s a storytelling experience that taps into themes of identity, longing, and belonging. In a city as diverse as Abu Dhabi, that message hits home.
Photography meets performance: Benji Reid’s Find Your Eyes
19-20 September, The Red Theater
Next up, we’ve got a true original: British artist Benji Reid, whose work blurs the lines between photography, dance, and theatre.
In Find Your Eyes, Reid; an Afro-futurist visionary and pioneer of hip-hop theatre takes audiences on a deeply emotional and visually surreal journey.
Each scene is like a living photograph, telling stories about trauma, hope, and transformation.
It’s raw, dreamlike, and unforgettable. If you’re looking for something that challenges what performance can be, this is one not to miss.
Two nations, one story: Dear Children, Sincerely…
26-27 September, The Black Box
To close out September, the center is bringing you a powerful cross-continental collaboration from Rwanda and Sri Lanka.
Dear Children, Sincerely… is created by Stages Theatre Group and Mashirika Performing Arts and Media Company, with support from NYUAD’s LitCW and Core Curriculum programs.
This ensemble piece brings young voices to the forefront, exploring the impact of colonial and post-colonial history.
Two countries, two different contexts; but so many shared threads. It’s a moving reminder of how the arts can bridge distance and open up conversations that matter.
Membership Perks
The Arts Center is growing its membership program, making it easier than ever to be part of the action.
Members get early access to tickets (including free shows), plus special perks like companion bookings so you can bring a friend along.
Whether you’re a student checking out your first show or a seasoned arts lover, there’s a place for you here. The community is growing; and it’s waiting for you.
Last season ends with the world premiere of Metro Diaries; a stunning example of how The Arts Center at NYUAD champions original work grounded in local stories. That commitment hasn’t changed. If anything, it’s stronger than ever.
As we head into Season 11, the focus is clear: nurture creativity, spark dialogue, and keep building a space where diverse voices shine.
These performances aren’t just entertainment; they’re experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways.
Discover something new, see yourself reflected on stage, and be part of this next chapter.
For tickets, memberships, and the full season lineup, head over to publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu
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