UAE Philharmonic Orchestra

The UAE Philharmonic Orchestra (UAEPO) was an orchestra active from 2006-2012 within the United Arab Emirates. Founded by Philipp Maier (who became its first conductor and artistic director), it performed in the city of Dubai. Originally called the Dubai Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO), in 2007 the orchestra was renamed due to its wide recognition and participation of musicians from all around the United Arab Emirates.

The UAE Philharmonic Orchestra consisted of around 70 volunteer amateur and professional musicians resident in the UAE, and performed regularly at private events, public concerts and corporate functions. Its repertory included both European classical music and specially commissioned works influenced by both European and Arabic musical traditions. During its existence The UAEPO was the only permanent orchestra in the UAE.

Performances in early 2007 were claimed to be well-attended and successful. However, in 2012, Meier resigned and announced the end of the UAEPO, blaming a lack of both public and private sector support.