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The 2025 edition of the Arabesques Festival in Montpellier is placing Morocco and its music center stage, drawing inspiration in particular from the renowned Fes Festival of Sacred Music.

The festival opened Tuesday evening on the enchanting stage of the Opéra Comédie, with organizers stressing their ambition to give greater visibility to the arts and music of the Arab world, this year with Morocco in the spotlight.

«Moroccan art and culture are rooted in tradition, but it is actually a tree that radiates through all musical trends», said festival director Habib Dechraoui in a statement to MAP. He emphasized the importance of showcasing Morocco’s dynamism and artistic richness through the Arabesques Festival, one of Europe’s leading events dedicated to Arab arts.

This twentieth edition features seven Moroccan artists and groups, including the legendary singer Najat Aâtabou, artist Soukaina Fahsi, electronic music producer Mr ID, and the Guedra troupe.

Dechraoui also recalled the twinning agreement linking Fes and Montpellier, noting that cooperation between the two cities focuses on university exchanges and cultural rapprochement, particularly between the Arabesques Festival and the Fes Festival of Sacred Music.

The opening night paid tribute to Oum Kalthoum, marking the 50th anniversary of the great diva’s passing. In total, five events honoring her legacy are planned throughout the festival, alongside literary gatherings and round tables dedicated to her enduring influence on Arab music.

Founded in 2006 by the association UNi’SONS, the Arabesques Festival has grown into a major European platform for Arab arts, celebrating two decades of cultural diversity, dialogue, and artistic exchange.