The Firdaus Women’s Orchestra is set to perform at the House of Arts in Expo City Dubai as part of the National Month campaign, celebrating the 54th Eid Al Etihad. This special event is organised by Brand Dubai in collaboration with Expo City Dubai and is designed to highlight the UAE’s rich cultural heritage. The orchestra, led by Lebanese maestro Harout Fazlian, will captivate audiences with a performance that blends national pride, history, and music.
One of the key highlights of the performance is “Zayed and Rashid,” a musical piece inspired by a poem by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The poem honours Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the founding fathers of the UAE, celebrating their roles in establishing the Union. Alongside this tribute, the orchestra will perform compositions influenced by traditional Emirati music, offering a rich, immersive cultural experience. Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, explained that the musical work, composed by national composer Mohammed Al Ahmad, reflects the enduring legacy of the UAE’s founding fathers and their vision for the nation.
Honouring UAE’s Founding Fathers Through Music
The performance aims to celebrate more than just the nation’s history; it is a showcase of the UAE’s achievements and a reflection of its forward-thinking vision. Shaima Al Suwaidi emphasised that Expo City Dubai serves as a perfect backdrop for such an event, symbolising the UAE’s ability to turn dreams into reality through innovation and collaboration. The National Month events, particularly the Zayed and Rashid campaign, are designed to foster national identity, pride, and gratitude towards the leaders who shaped the nation.
Amina Taher, part of the Zayed and Rashid campaign organising committee, highlighted that Brand Dubai’s collaboration with the Firdaus Orchestra and the choice of the House of Arts for this performance underline Dubai’s commitment to authentic Emirati culture. Expo City Dubai, she said, represents the UAE’s role in fostering global connections and promoting a sustainable future built on mutual understanding and cooperation.
A Cultural Evening with the Firdaus Orchestra
The Firdaus Orchestra is an all-women ensemble that previously captivated audiences during Expo 2020 Dubai. Its reunion for this performance promises a nationally themed and culturally rich evening. The House of Arts, a multidisciplinary cultural centre, has been a hub for creative expression inspired by Emirati heritage. Amna Abulhoul, Executive Creative Director of Entertainment & Experiences at Expo City Dubai and House of Arts Curator, expressed her delight in working with Brand Dubai for this occasion, emphasising the significance of this collaboration for national celebrations.
Amna noted that the programme highlights the essence of the House of Arts as a platform that nurtures Emirati creativity across music, traditional performing arts, and cultural expression. The performance also symbolises the UAE’s journey from its early beginnings to its current achievements, celebrating the progress the nation has made while maintaining strong cultural roots.
The Legacy of Zayed and Rashid
The Zayed and Rashid campaign, launched last year by Brand Dubai under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, continues to honour the legacies of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. This initiative celebrates their vision and leadership, which helped guide the UAE towards global recognition and development. The Firdaus Women’s Orchestra performance builds on this initiative, using music to connect people with the nation’s heritage and evoke a sense of pride and unity.
Audiences can look forward to an evening filled with traditional Emirati melodies alongside contemporary orchestral arrangements, providing a modern interpretation of the country’s cultural history. The music, combined with the House of Arts’ creative environment, aims to inspire national pride and deepen appreciation for the UAE’s artistic and cultural contributions.
A Night to Experience Emirati Heritage
The event is expected to offer more than just a performance; it is a chance to immerse in the UAE’s heritage and connect with the cultural milestones that shaped the nation. Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to experience a blend of music, poetry, and storytelling that honours the country’s founders while celebrating its continued growth and achievements.
The Firdaus Women’s Orchestra, known for its diverse repertoire and exceptional musical talent, will perform pieces that reflect the richness of Emirati culture. From traditional instruments to innovative arrangements, the performance will showcase the depth of musical heritage in the UAE. The House of Arts, with its versatile spaces and focus on cultural development, provides the ideal venue for such a performance, highlighting the nation’s commitment to preserving and promoting its artistic traditions.

Celebrating the UAE’s Journey Through Music
This special evening serves as a reminder of the UAE’s journey from its humble beginnings to a nation recognised for its progress and achievements on the global stage. Through music, the performance seeks to unite audiences, evoke emotions, and celebrate the vision and dedication of the UAE’s founding fathers. It also reflects the role of arts and culture in shaping national identity, fostering creativity, and inspiring future generations.
The Firdaus Women’s Orchestra’s performance at Expo City Dubai offers a unique opportunity to experience Emirati heritage in a way that is engaging, moving, and memorable. Attendees will witness a celebration of the UAE’s rich cultural tapestry, blending history, music, and artistry into an unforgettable evening.
Inspiring the Future Through Cultural Expression
Beyond entertainment, the performance highlights the importance of cultural initiatives in promoting national pride and unity. By showcasing the contributions of the UAE’s founding fathers through music, the event encourages reflection on the nation’s achievements while inspiring audiences to contribute to its continued growth.
The Firdaus Women’s Orchestra, with its exceptional talent and dedication, brings the UAE’s history to life through an artistic lens. Expo City Dubai, with its focus on innovation, sustainability, and cultural expression, offers the perfect setting for this celebration. Together, the orchestra and Expo City demonstrate how art, heritage, and creativity can unite communities, strengthen national identity, and honour the legacy of those who shaped the nation.
This musical celebration will leave a lasting impression, offering an evening of cultural enrichment and a deeper connection to the UAE’s heritage. The Firdaus Women’s Orchestra at Expo City Dubai is more than a performance; it is a tribute to the nation’s founders, a celebration of Emirati artistry, and an inspiring experience for all who attend. The event promises to be a memorable occasion, reflecting the UAE’s journey, achievements, and dedication to preserving and celebrating its cultural heritage.
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