Visit Dubai, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has launched a cross-cultural music collaboration featuring Indian composer and performer Anirudh Ravichander and Emirati singer-musician Arqam Al Abri. Filmed across Dubai's heritage districts and contemporary cultural spaces, the campaign highlights the city as a global destination for culture, entertainment and artistic exchange.
The film follows the two musicians as they explore Old Dubai and Al Seef, blending their distinct musical influences into a contemporary soundscape. Set against the backdrop of Al Seef's traditional architecture and waterfront, the collaboration reflects Dubai's ability to bring together heritage and modern creativity.
The initiative also reinforces Dubai's strong cultural ties with India, its largest international tourism source market. In 2025, the city welcomed 19.59 million international overnight visitors, with India contributing the highest number of arrivals.
On his experience of creating music in Dubai, Anirudh Ravichander said, “What makes this project truly special is the opportunity to bring together two unique musical worlds and discover the common ground between them. Collaborating with Arqam was an inspiring experience, and Dubai provided the perfect backdrop for that creative exchange. The city’s multicultural foundation, rich heritage, and openness to new ideas naturally shaped the journey and made this creative pursuit feel authentic from start to finish”.
Speaking about the cross-cultural musical journey, Arqam Al Abri said, “Music has a unique ability to create connections that go beyond language and geography. As an artist, it was incredibly inspiring to collaborate with Anirudh, whose music has resonated with millions across India and around the world. Through this project, we discovered how our different musical traditions could complement one another while creating something entirely new. Dubai made that exchange possible. It is a city where cultures naturally meet and learn from each other, and that spirit is reflected throughout this journey.”
Bader Ali Habib, Regional Director of Proximity Markets at Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: “Music has always had the power to bring people together, and this collaboration reflects the spirit of creative exchange that Dubai stands for. Anirudh Ravichander and Arqam Al Abri bring together two distinct musical voices that reflect the city’s multicultural energy and evolving creative landscape. As a global hub for culture and creativity, Dubai continues to create opportunities for artists and audiences from around the world to connect through shared experiences and artistic expression. India holds a uniquely important place in Dubai’s story, and this creative alliance reflects the spirit of our city and our commitment to deepening our engagement with India’s diverse and growing community of travel enthusiasts."
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