The immersive production arrives in the capital.
Abu Dhabi is set to welcome a cultural milestone as the historic Arabic opera Antar and Abla makes its UAE debut this winter. Staged from 9 to 14 December 2025, the immersive production will take over the International Tennis Centre in Zayed Sports City, reimagining the venue as a purpose-built, open-air opera theatre for six nights.
Centred on the legendary love story of Antar and Abla, the production combines powerful operatic vocals with high-end set design and advanced visual technology. The creative direction promises a sweeping fusion of classical Arab poetry and the grandeur of opera, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional hub for culture and global dialogue.
A timeless epic that has inspired generations, Antar and Abla returns to the stage with a contemporary lens, seeking to celebrate the Arabic language while showcasing its expressive power in a modern format. The production has been recognised with the Mohammed bin Rashid Award for Arabic Language in Cultural Excellence, a nod to its role in engaging younger audiences and promoting linguistic pride through compelling performance.
The bill adds an international dimension through a performance by Shaolin monks and the participation of the Lanzhou Symphony Orchestra. This collaboration underscores the longstanding cultural ties between the UAE and China, which have spanned over four decades across trade, industry, and the arts. By hosting Antar and Abla, Abu Dhabi highlights a spirit of inclusivity that unites more than 200 nationalities under one creative roof.
Imane Alsalem Tlamid, Acting CEO of Bidaya, said: “The Arabic Opera Antar and Abla is more than an opera; it is a story beyond boundaries. With innovative staging that transforms a tennis court into a grand stage, immersive visual technology, and the participation of the Lanzhou Symphony Orchestra and Shaolin Monks from China, this production celebrates Arab heritage in a modern way and reflects the UAE’s vision of openness, diversity, and cultural dialogue.”
Antar and Abla is positioned to be one of the season’s defining cultural events. With demand expected to be high, early booking is highly recommended.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.