The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) today unveiled the full programme for the third edition of the Arabian Days Festival, a dynamic three-day celebration of the Arabic language’s vitality and contemporary relevance. From 13 to 15 December 2025, Manarat Al Saadiyat will be transformed into a vibrant hub of music, film, storytelling, and interactive experiences, under the youth-friendly theme ‘Arabic is the Vibe’.
The 2025 edition presents the festival's most expansive lineup yet, featuring concert premieres, professional development workshops, and dedicated youth and family zones, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s pivotal role as a global platform for Arabic language and culture, and aligning with UNESCO’s World Arabic Language Day which falls on 18 December.
HE Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre
Highlighting musical premieres and rich cultural dialogue, the festival’s main stage will present an immersive three-night musical journey, featuring Rahma Riad and Fouad Abdelwahed. Cairokee while the closing night will pay tribute to the elegance of Muwashahat, featuring Lena Chamamyan and Rima Khcheich, and Zena Emad
As part of her performance, Khcheich will introduce her new album “Ya Man Itha”, a tribute to Egyptian composer Fouad Abdel Majeed, marking its live debut and official launch performance at the Arabian Days Festival following its global digital release.
Complementing the performances, the auditorium will present daily panel discussions that explore the depth and evolution of Arabic cultural expression. The first day opening session will feature “The Melody and the Poem: Heritage as a Source of Contemporary Creativity,” a conversation that looks at the enduring relationship between music and poetry and the ways in which Arab cultural heritage continues to shape modern creative practice. The session brings together insights from Lena Chamamyan and poet, professor and interdisciplinary thinker Mahdi Mansour.
The second day turns to “Youth and the Making of Arabic Content,” featuring filmmakers Majed Al Zubaidi and Nada Jahed, who reflect on their entry into the world of cinema and the lessons gained while directing their films.
The final day, held in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, examines “Sounds and Aesthetics: Arabic as a Source of Inspiration,” highlighting the language’s role as a marker of identity and a foundation for literary and artistic expression. Speakers include music composer and President of the Emirati Musicians' Association Ihab Darwish, literary critic Maryam Alhashmi, poet Abdulrahman Alhemeiri, winner of the 2025 Prince of Poets competition.
In its third edition, the Bonfire return with a contemporary retelling of Arab traditions where classic tales meet modern storytelling, music and poetry in an intimate open-air setting. Sorytellers include artist and composer Fayez Al Saeed, poet Ali Al Khawar, Maryam Alzaabi , Abdelaaziz Almadani, Naser Amir Equine Behavioural Expert Ali Al Ameri,
Aligning with its cultural mission, the festival will also host in collaboration with New York University Abu Dhabi, a conference on “AI in Arabic Language Teaching” to empower Arabic teachers and support the development of innovative, AI-enhanced curriculum models. Additionally, the CNN Arabic Storytelling Bootcamp will support emerging content creators by strengthening their narrative and digital production skills.
Festival grounds will buzz with interactive activations designed for all ages, with immersive experiences at a dynamic youth hub, live Graffiti Wall, and workshops on leveraging social media for creative careers. A selection of Arab films by creative regional filmmakers, presented by Arab Film Studio, one of the programs offered by Creative Lab, the talent development arm of the Creative Media Authority in Abu Dhabi. A dedicated schedule of family-friendly activities includes puppet shows, Kids Choirs, and a vast array of traditional board games.
To register for general entry, explore the full programme and book concert tickets, please visit:
