Cultural Foundation, operating under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, has announced its programme of events for the first half of 2026. The season includes performances, exhibitions, learning activities, and family programmes.
From January to May, the Foundation will host international and regional artists across dance, music, theatre, and film. Alongside performances, the programme includes a major exhibition by Shezad Dawood, community learning initiatives, and expanded children’s and studio programmes.
Performances
January begins with Romeo and Juliet on 9 January and Cinderella on 10 January, performed by the Russian State Ballet Mari El in partnership with Art For All.
Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book by Julia Donaldson will be staged on 23 and 24 January, offering theatre designed for younger audiences.
As part of Al Hosn Festival, “Journey of Emirati Music: From Cassette to Digital – The Evolution of Emirati Sound” will run from 17 January to 1 February. The project explores the development of Emirati music through live and visual elements.
Composer Iyad Rimawi will perform on 7 February with orchestra and vocalists. On 15 February, audiences can attend a screening of Akram Khan’s Giselle by the English National Ballet, presented with the British Embassy UAE.
“Reema: Queen of the Desert” will be presented on 27 March, followed by “Riyahiyat” on 11 April, led by Lamia Riahi and presented with Highways Arabia.
Boom Diwan will perform contemporary Khaleeji Jazz on 1 May. The Way Back Home by Oliver Jeffers will run on 8 and 9 May. The season closes with the European Film Festival 2026 from 19 to 24 May.
Exhibitions
The exhibition ‘Skin of Dreams’ opens on 26 March. Curated by Jessica Cerasi, it brings together over 40 works by Shezad Dawood and explores the relationship between imagination, history, and material practice.
The exhibition engages with Cultural Foundation’s architecture and places Dawood’s work in dialogue with the space.
‘Two Clouds in the Night Sky’ and ‘And After’ continue until 22 February and focus on landscape, air, and artistic process.
Public Programmes and Learning
The Foundation’s public programme includes talks, workshops, tours, and residencies. Applications for the Art Residency programme close on 31 January.
The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library provides learning spaces for children and families. In 2026, it will introduce new family programmes linked to the Year of Family initiative.
Art studios at Al Marsam Al Hor and Bait Al Khatt continue to offer practical courses across visual arts and design.
Cultural Foundation is open Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 8pm and Fridays from 2pm to 8pm. Entry is free, with tickets required for some activities. Further information is available at culturalfoundation.ae.
