Event

Fostering Middle Eastern Peace through a Melodic Fusion in Dubai

Published December 6, 2023

In an endeavor to cultivate peace and solidarity, a team comprised of Israeli, Palestinian, and American visionaries devised a unique concert experience in Dubai. The event was envisioned to assembled noteworthy Israeli, Palestinian, Arab, European, and American artists, celebrating harmony and reconciliation against the backdrop of the Middle East.

Uniting Cultures through Music

At the core of the concept were David Broza, an esteemed Israeli musician; Dr. Iyad Aldajani, a Palestinian scholar of reconciliation; and Jack Baxter, a filmmaker-journalist from New York. They were inspired by the ideals of the Abraham Accords to facilitate true camaraderie amongst nations through the universal language of music. However, they faced the stark reality of a conflict that seemed at odds with their noble vision of peace through art.

A Past Shaped by Turmoil

Jack Baxter's relationship with David Broza dates back two decades to a tragic incident—a suicide bombing attack near a Tel Aviv music bar, which strengthened Broza's resolve for peace. Similarly, Dr. Aldajani, hailing from a distinguished Jerusalemite Arab family, embraced his peacemaking path after facing significant backlash when he facilitated a visit of Palestinian students to the Auschwitz concentration camp – an effort to bridge understanding between conflicting histories.

A Concert in the Making

The planning for the Dubai International Peace Concert symbolized hope amidst adversity. It was to be more than just a musical event; it was set to be a gathering that could inspire real change and demonstrate the power of cultural exchange. Preparations for the concert in May 2022 were a testament to the belief that music could transcend political and cultural boundaries.

music, peace, concert