Baghdad: The Abu Dhabi Festival of Culture and Arts returns for a new edition under the theme ‘The Wisdom of Culture.’ This year’s main program includes a packed agenda of world-class musical performances, partnerships with leading cultural institutions and international festivals, and will also celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations and friendship between the United Arab Emirates and the United States of America, the guest of honor at this year’s festival.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Festival, stated that since its inception in 2004, the festival has presented a pioneering model of cultural diplomacy and soft power. It has contributed to strengthening the UAE’s position as a global beacon of thought and a meeting place for intercultural dialogue and human connection.

He noted that the festival, in its 23rd edition, comes under the theme ‘The Wisdom of Culture,’ embodying the UAE’s vision of the importance of culture and the arts in spreading the values of understanding, coexistence, peace, and convergence among peoples. It aims to achieve sustainable development and prosperity in societies.

Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that the Abu Dhabi Festival is celebrating the United States of America as the guest of honor at this year’s edition, affirming the strategic relations between the two friendly countries. This celebration underscores their firm commitment to working together to promote regional and global peace and stability, and to spread the values of tolerance and human fraternity among peoples.

The festival’s theme, “The Wisdom of Culture,” serves as a beacon highlighting the role of culture in bringing people together and fostering communication and dialogue between identities and cultures. It also showcases artistic creativity in the UAE and the Arab region, connecting Abu Dhabi with the world, and reaffirming the belief that culture is a universal language that inspires creativity, drives innovation, and strengthens ties across borders.

As the guest of honor, the festival will celebrate the United States of America and highlight its strong cultural ties with the UAE, as well as their shared commitment to cultivating creativity and enriching dialogue and mutual understanding through the power of the arts. The festival will also commemorate more than 50 years of diplomatic relations and cooperation with the UAE.