Cairo is getting ready for three days of live music, international performances, and cultural exchange. The 18th edition of the Cairo International Jazz Festival kicks off today, November 5, and runs through November 7.
This year’s festival brings together Egyptian and international musicians from different musical backgrounds. The lineup spans Egypt, Denmark, Oman, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and several other countries.
Beyond the concerts, visitors can enjoy workshops, masterclasses, jazz discussions, and special activities for children. Most performances take place at the American University in Cairo’s Tahrir Square campus.
Whether you’re a longtime jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a different weekend plan, here’s what to expect.
When and Where Is the Festival?
The festival runs from Thursday, November 5, through Saturday, November 7. Its main venue is AUC’s Tahrir Square campus.
Performances take place across several stages, including Ewart Memorial Hall and the Garden Stage. The program also includes a special showcase at the Fountain Stage.
Thursday, November 5: Opening Night
The festival opens with two performances at Ewart Memorial Hall.
First, Danish-Omani singer Nana Rashid takes the stage at 8 PM. Her sound combines Scandinavian jazz traditions with neo-soul and blues influences.
Then, Egyptian composer and producer Hisham Kharma performs at 9:30 PM. His music blends electronic sounds, world music, and Eastern rhythms.
Together, the opening performances offer two different approaches to contemporary jazz.
Friday, November 6: A Mix of International and Egyptian Sounds
Friday brings a packed program across the festival’s stages.
The Garden Stage opens at 5 PM with Malta’s Warren Galea Trio. Italian jazz musician Michelangelo Scandroglio follows at Ewart Memorial Hall at 6 PM.
At 7 PM, ARIFA performs with Egyptian musician Mohamed Sawwah. The group combines musical influences from the Netherlands, Turkey, and Egypt.
Meanwhile, Egyptian oud player Hazem Shaheen takes over Ewart Memorial Hall at 8:45 PM. He will present music from his latest album, Zikr.
The evening closes with Harfoush and The Egyptian Jazz Projekt at 10 PM. The group reimagines classic Egyptian songs through jazz arrangements.
Saturday, November 7: The Grand Finale
The final day brings another international lineup and several special performances.
The day begins with the Bandmakers Music Academy showcase at the Fountain Stage at 1 PM. Later, Austrian-Egyptian collaboration Guido Spannocchi Quartet performs at 5 PM.
Spanish pianist Xavi Torres and his trio follow at 6 PM. Portuguese singer Manuel Linhares takes the Garden Stage at 7:15 PM.
At 8:30 PM, Swiss-based duo Bächlin and Elkholy bring together jazz piano, oud, and vocals. Their performance explores the meeting of different musical traditions.
Finally, the festival closes at 9:45 PM with one of its headline performances. Grammy-winning Egyptian musician Fathy Salama joins Algerian singer Karima Nayt with his band, Sharkiat.
More Than Just Concerts
The festival also offers activities beyond its main performances. Visitors can explore workshops, masterclasses, and Jazz Talks throughout the event.
There is also a dedicated Jazzinino program for children. It introduces younger audiences to music through interactive activities.
Importantly, workshops and masterclasses are free, although registration is required. AUC students can also receive a 50% ticket discount when purchasing at the door.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets for the concerts are available through the official Cairo Jazz Festival website or through Tickets Marche. You can also find the complete program and performance details there.
For three days, Cairo becomes a meeting point for different musical cultures. From traditional Egyptian melodies to contemporary European jazz, this year’s festival offers something worth discovering.
