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Emirati oud player on storytelling, sharing the UAE’s sound with the world
From maqams to musical dialogue, Abdel Rahman Al Blooshi explains how the UAE’s heritage fits seamlessly into a global concert stage
- PUBLISHED: Thu 15 Jan 2026, 3:22 PM UPDATED: Thu 15 Jan 2026, 3:26 PM
- By:
- Husain Rizvi
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When Global Fusion 2026 takes over Dubai's Jumeirah Beach Hotel on January 18, it will be a meeting of GRAMMY Award–winning talent from around the world. Among the international ensemble is Emirati oud player Abdel Rahman Al Blooshi, a rising cultural ambassador carrying the sound of the UAE onto a truly global stage.
In a conversation with Khaleej Times, Al Blooshi reflects on representing Emirati heritage alongside global legends and the oud’s power as a storytelling instrument. Edited excerpts from the conversation:
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You’ll be sharing the stage with GRAMMY Award–winning musicians from vastly different musical traditions. What does it mean to you to represent Emirati heritage in a setting like Global Fusion 2026?
It is a profound honour. Standing alongside such accomplished musicians confirms that Emirati music is not just local folklore; it is a rich, living tradition capable of dialogue with the world’s best art forms. To me, representing my heritage here means building a bridge, showing that the soul of the UAE can harmonise perfectly with global sounds while retaining its unique identity.
When you step onto an international stage, do you feel more like a performer, a cultural storyteller, or a mix of both?
I definitely feel like a mix of both, but the storyteller side is stronger. The oud is not just an instrument; it is the voice of our history. When I play, I am not just focusing on technique; I am narrating the emotions, landscapes, and memories of this region without using a single word.
Tell us your story. How did you get into playing oud?
The sound of the oud has always held a special place in my heart since my childhood; it is the "Sultan of Instruments." I was drawn to its warmth and ability to express complex emotions that words cannot capture. My journey began with a desire to connect deeply with that authentic Arabic sound, and over the years, it has transformed from a hobby into a disciplined passion and a way of life. My journey took a serious turn when I joined the Fujairah Fine Arts Academy in 2019 to polish my skills. The academy helped me channel my energy into understanding the fundamentals and musical maqams (standings, notes). I still consider myself a student, learning and discovering something new about the Oud every single day. A pivotal part of this growth was participating in the Academy’s orchestra, which gave me the opportunity to perform in numerous events both within the UAE and abroad.
Have you discovered new ways of playing or thinking about the oud through rehearsing or exchanging ideas with artists from South Africa, India, Iran, or Europe?
Absolutely. Music is a universal language, but every dialect is different. interacting with musicians from India and Europe has taught me to listen differently. I’ve discovered how the oud can weave into jazz rhythms or harmonise with different scales without losing its character. It has challenged me to be more flexible and has expanded the boundaries of what I thought the instrument could do.
The UAE’s creative scene has grown rapidly over the past decade. How do you see Emirati music evolving today, especially as younger artists engage with global sounds and platforms?
We are witnessing a renaissance. Young artists are realising that our traditional sounds are not old, they are timeless. I see Emirati music evolving into a genre that respects its roots but is not afraid to experiment. We are moving from strictly preserving heritage to actively innovating with it, making our music accessible to a global audience.
For young Emirati musicians watching this collaboration unfold, what message do you hope your presence on this stage sends?
My message is simple: Be proud of your roots. The world doesn't need you to sound like everyone else; it wants to hear your unique voice and your culture. If you master your craft and honour your heritage, there is no stage in the world that is out of reach.
