Dhafer Youssef at Abu Dhabi Festival 2026

Oud player, singer, and composer Dhafer Youssef leads his Quintet on a mesmerising journey through soundscapes that bridge East and West.

Born in Tunisia, Youssef divides his time between Vienna, Paris, and New York, and his music reflects this global spirit. Rooted in the Arab musical and vocal traditions of North Africa, he masterfully fuses jazz, European classical forms, Turkish influence, and traditional Indian music into sensuous melodies and intricate rhythmic structures.

With driving beats, experimental textures, and subtle electronic elements, his music captivates both jazz aficionados and younger audiences alike. An evening of intensity, emotion, and the transformative power of sound.