Dubai: The fourth edition of the Dubai Metro Music Festival has turned the daily journeys of residents and visitors into an exciting musical experience. Taking place from September 26, 2024, across five key metro stations, the week-long celebration is organized by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO), in collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
This year’s festival features 20 local, regional, and international musicians performing a wide variety of musical genres.
The performances are being held daily from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at stations including The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, BurJuman, Union, and DMCC.
A global celebration of music and culture
The Festival reinforces Dubai's position as a leading global cultural destination. Mahra Abdullah, Project Manager of the festival, emphasized the event's impact on enhancing the city's creative and artistic spirit.
"The festival showcases Dubai's diversity and artistic energy, offering a platform for global talent to connect with the community. The overwhelming response from commuters is a testament to the festival’s success in creating memorable experiences," she said.
Young prodigies and innovative performances
Among the standout performances this year is 14-year-old Emirati pianist Ahmed Al Hashemi, who has captured the attention of audiences with his extraordinary musical skills.
Living with autism, Al Hashemi has performed at over 100 events across the UAE and internationally.
He is also the first Emirati child to compose his own music and has won several global competitions.
DJ Lorenzo Mena
Another highlight is percussionist and DJ Lorenzo Mena, who uses everyday objects like frying pans and paint pots to create innovative sounds. Mena's fusion of electronic music and organic rhythms offers a unique listening experience, showcasing the potential of ordinary items as musical instruments.
Engaging performances inspire community spirit
Professional drummer Patrick Abdo added an interactive dimension to the festival by inviting children to join him on stage for a collaborative drumming performance. The lively interaction between the children and Patrick not only demonstrated their musical talents but also fostered a sense of community among the audience.
Blending tradition and innovation
The festival’s diverse lineup features both classical and avant-garde musicians, allowing Dubai’s cosmopolitan audience to enjoy a wide array of musical styles. Performances range from traditional string and percussion instruments to more experimental setups, such as using PVC pipes as instruments.
With performances rotating across all five metro stations, the festival has infused the daily commutes of thousands with joy and creativity, offering an unforgettable cultural experience that reflects Dubai’s commitment to fostering the arts.