Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Hotel prepares to host an extraordinary convergence of musical excellence as Global Fusion 2026 brings together GRAMMY Award-winning artists from diverse cultural backgrounds. Among these international talents stands Emirati oud master Abdel Rahman Al Blooshi, who emerges as a significant cultural ambassador introducing the UAE’s rich auditory heritage to worldwide audiences.
In an exclusive dialogue, Al Blooshi reflects on the profound honor of representing Emirati musical traditions alongside globally celebrated musicians. “This collaboration demonstrates that our music transcends local folklore,” he emphasizes. “It represents a vibrant, living tradition capable of meaningful artistic dialogue with the world’s premier musical forms.”
The artist describes his dual role as both performer and cultural storyteller, noting that the oud serves as more than merely an instrument—it functions as the vocal embodiment of regional history and emotion. “When I play,” Al Blooshi explains, “I channel the landscapes, memories, and emotional depth of our culture without uttering a single word.”
Al Blooshi’s musical journey began in childhood through an innate attraction to the oud’s warm tonality and emotional expressiveness. His formal training commenced at Fujairah Fine Arts Academy in 2019, where he refined his technical mastery and deepened his understanding of musical maqams. Despite his accomplishments, the musician maintains a student’s mindset, continuously exploring new dimensions of his instrument.
Cross-cultural collaborations have significantly expanded Al Blooshi’s artistic perspective. Interactions with musicians from India, Europe, and beyond have revealed how the oud can integrate with jazz rhythms and diverse musical scales while preserving its distinctive character. These experiences have challenged him to develop greater flexibility and broaden his perception of the instrument’s capabilities.
Regarding the UAE’s evolving creative landscape, Al Blooshi observes a cultural renaissance underway. Younger generations of Emirati artists are recognizing the timeless quality of traditional sounds while fearlessly experimenting with global influences. This shift from preservation to innovation, he notes, enhances the accessibility of Emirati music to international audiences.
For aspiring Emirati musicians, Al Blooshi offers compelling advice: “Embrace your cultural identity with pride. The global community doesn’t seek uniformity—it values authentic expression and cultural uniqueness. Master your craft while honoring your heritage, and no stage will remain beyond your reach.”