Mumbai: Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Visit Dubai), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has unveiled a cross-cultural music collaboration featuring acclaimed Indian composer and performer Anirudh Ravichander and Emirati singer-musician Arqam Al Abri, as part of its continued engagement with Indian audiences and its efforts to position Dubai as a global centre for culture, creativity and entertainment.
The collaboration brings together Indian and Emirati musical influences through a creative exchange filmed across Dubai’s heritage districts and contemporary cultural spaces. Through conversations, collaborative music sessions and spontaneous artistic interactions, the campaign showcases Dubai as a city where diverse cultures connect through shared experiences.
Set against the backdrop of Old Dubai and Al Seef, the film follows Anirudh Ravichander and Arqam Al Abri as they blend their distinct musical styles into a contemporary soundscape. Featuring Al Seef’s waterfront, traditional architecture and winding lanes, the campaign reflects Dubai’s ability to seamlessly combine heritage with modern creativity.
The initiative comes at a time when Dubai continues to strengthen its appeal among Indian travellers. In 2025, Dubai welcomed 19.59 million international overnight visitors, with India emerging as the city’s largest source market. The campaign also reflects the long-standing cultural relationship between the two markets, with Dubai being home to one of the world’s largest Indian communities.
Anirudh Ravichander, recognised for his work across major film projects including Jawan, Jailer, Leo, Vikram, Beast and Why This Kolaveri Di, joins Emirati artist Arqam Al Abri, known for his contemporary interpretations and international performances, including appearances alongside Lang Lang and participation in global cultural platforms.
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.”
At a time when audiences are increasingly seeking meaningful cultural experiences and deeper human connection, the partnership reinforces the power of music and art to spark dialogue, creativity, and shared experiences across communities. From entertainment and comedy to now music, Visit Dubai continues to collaborate with influential global and regional talent, to create culturally relevant stories that resonate with audiences across markets. This partnership reflects Dubai’s continued evolution as a global platform where artists, creators, and audiences from around the world come together through culture, storytelling, and shared passions.
