Ahead of the 54th UAE National Day, acclaimed Indian composer A.R. Rahman unveiled his new musical tribute, Jamal Al Etihad, at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi.
Introduced as a “Song of Hope,” the composition made its world premiere before an enthusiastic, packed audience. The crowd erupted in applause as the Oscar- and Grammy-winning musician presented the UAE-born piece, celebrating the nation’s spirit and identity.
Following the debut, the UAE honoured Rahman with a spectacular fireworks display synchronised to his iconic Academy Award-winning track Jai Ho, making him the first Indian artist to receive such recognition at one of the country’s largest cultural festivals.
The premiere was attended by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Omran Al Khoori, Board Member of Burjeel Holdings; and several dignitaries associated with the Sheikh Zayed Festival.
The song, commissioned ahead of the Eid Al Etihad celebrations, encapsulates values central to the UAE—unity, coexistence, resilience, hope, and shared humanity.
It traces the nation’s journey from its early years to the present day, envisioning a bright future inspired by the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Through vivid imagery and references to national achievements, the song honours the UAE’s progress, innovation, and enduring cultural values.
Rahman described the composition as an international song born in the UAE’s unique environment. He expressed admiration for the country’s forward-looking vision and its deep commitment to multicultural harmony.
Reflecting on the collaboration, he shared that the idea grew from Dr. Shamsheer’s wish to create a gift for the UAE—one that celebrates its diverse population and their shared experiences.
He explained that “Jamal,” meaning “beautiful,” reflects the beauty of unity and coexistence, and represents a celebration of every individual who contributes to the nation’s vibrancy.
The project is the result of months of creative collaboration between A.R. Rahman and Burjeel Holdings, the healthcare partner of the Sheikh Zayed Festival. Dr. Vayalil emphasised the close connection between music and healing, noting that music has the power to uplift people regardless of their emotional state.
He shared that his own life in the UAE, shaped by opportunities and growth, mirrors the journeys of many expatriates who arrived with hope and found success.
Vayalil said the song honours the UAE’s leadership and the unity, togetherness, and optimism that define the nation, expressing that when life is filled with beauty and harmony, “everything feels right.” (PTI)
