Dubai is adding a new cultural milestone to its growing list of creative initiatives — and this one comes with strings, brass, and percussion. On June 18, the Government of Dubai officially announced the launch of the Dubai Orchestra project, aiming to elevate local musical talent and take Emirati music and culture worldwide.
Approved by the Executive Council under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the initiative is set to play a major role in building the city’s reputation as a global centre for culture and a strong incubator for creative industries.

The new orchestra will become a long-term investment in Dubai’s creative ecosystem. Among the key goals is an ambitious target: by 2033, 50% of orchestra members will be Emirati.
To make that vision a reality, the project will roll out a range of initiatives:
- Youth-focused music programmes to inspire the next generation
- New partnerships with community and arts organisations across the city
- Educational opportunities for emerging musicians
- Promotion of UAE’s musical heritage on international stages

The Dubai Media Office shared the announcement on X, noting that the project is designed to “reinforce Dubai’s position as a global cultural hub” while stimulating growth in the local arts scene.
For aspiring musicians, cultural advocates, and fans of orchestral music, this project marks a big step forward for Dubai’s place on the world’s cultural map. And for the city itself, it’s another layer in its strategy to build a vibrant, future-ready creative economy — with music as one of its leading acts.