A.R. Rahman to Premiere New Tribute 'Jamal Al Etihad' at Sheikh Zayed Festival
November 29, 2025
A free performance featuring A.R. Rahman will headline the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi this Saturday, premiering Jamal Al Etihad, a new musical tribute embracing UAE values of unity, coexistence, resilience, and hope.
Rahman is performing Jamal Al Etihad at the Sheikh Zayed Festival, celebrating the UAE and its spirit.
The evening will showcase additional band performances and culturally inspired dance showcases, creating a multi-layered cultural experience.
The live premiere is scheduled for 9:30 PM at Layali Al Wathba Theatre, with gates open from 7:00 PM for festival visitors.
The song’s digital release is planned to follow the live performance on Rahman’s platforms, expanding reach beyond the concert.
Following the live show, Jamal Al Etihad will be released digitally on Rahman’s platforms to broaden its audience.
The performance aligns with Eid Al Etihad celebrations and UAE National Day lead‑up, appealing to local and global audiences.
The event opens at 9:30 PM and includes a three‑minute fireworks display at 10:00 PM, with the concert free for festival visitors.
A three‑minute fireworks finale is planned at 10:00 PM to cap the concert segment.
Admission to the Layali Al Wathba Theatre performance is free for festival ticket holders; general Sheikh Zayed Festival entry is Dh10.
Festival entry is Dh10 for general attendees, while the Layali Al Wathba Theatre show is free for ticket holders.
Rahman, a two-time Oscar and Grammy winner, will perform Jamal Al Etihad live with his team for the first time, amplifying the event’s significance.
The live premiere features Rahman performing with his team, enhanced by band performances and traditional dance showcases.
Omran Al Khoori of Burjeel Holdings emphasizes that the project reflects UAE values and the nation’s unity, with the Sheikh Zayed Festival as the premier platform for the premiere.
Burjeel Holdings’ Omran Al Khoori notes the tribute mirrors UAE unity and highlights the festival as an ideal cultural gathering for its debut.
Jamal Al Etihad was conceived by Burjeel Holdings and composed by Rahman as a UAE-born creation meant to resonate with local and international audiences.
The piece is described as a message of hope reflecting UAE values of unity, coexistence, resilience, and shared humanity.
Summary based on 2 sources
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