Abdulla Al Hamed Attends “Umm Kulthum” Musical in Cairo

As part of strengthening cultural and artistic ties between the United Arab Emirates and the Arab Republic of Egypt, Cairo witnessed a notable cultural visit by His Excellency Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE National Media Office. One of the highlights of the visit was his attendance at the musical theatre production “Umm Kulthum… Lost in the Voice of El-Sett,” a contemporary artistic tribute to the legendary Arab diva.

The performance drew a large audience and a distinguished gathering of figures from the arts, media, and public life, including Ahmed Al-Muslimani, artist Tamer Hosny, and a number of journalists, media leaders, and businessmen, reflecting the enduring resonance of musical theatre in Arab cultural life.

Following the show, Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed took to the stage to express his admiration for the exceptional artistic experience, noting that the production matches the highest standards of international musical theatre seen on Broadway and in London. He emphasized that the work is a source of pride not only for Egypt, but for the entire Arab world, praising the creative team for presenting Umm Kulthum’s legacy in a refined artistic language that deeply connects with Arab audiences.

The musical, which premiered in October 2025, has received wide media and critical attention for its artistic portrayal of key milestones in Umm Kulthum’s life—from her early beginnings in Dakahlia to her rise as a global icon with an immortal voice—through a blend of drama and live musical performance.

The production also features a poignant historical scene recalling Umm Kulthum’s visit to the UAE during the early years of its cultural development, where she was warmly received by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This moment highlighted the deep-rooted cultural bonds between Egypt and the UAE and was met with strong audience engagement.

This cultural presence reflects the UAE’s continued commitment to supporting the arts and fostering Arab cultural dialogue, affirming culture’s role as a bridge between nations and a cornerstone of shared heritage.