Meet Ahmad Haffar: The 'Voice of Dubai' aiming for Hollywood stardom
The voice that you hear on Dubai Opera opens up about working with Dune musician and more
Dubai: Ahmad Haffar, credited as the 'Voice of Dubai' by various UAE governmental entities, is preparing for a new chapter in his career as he looks toward Hollywood.
A skilled voice-over artist and sonic branding specialist, the Lebanese talent has become an integral part of Dubai's soundscape. From being the voice of the Dubai Opera to lending his voice to Dubai Airports, Coca-Cola Arena, and Expo Dubai 2020, Haffar’s deep voice has become a part of every UAE resident's daily lives.
But now the notorious school drop-out-turned-teacher is ready to explore new opportunities.
His latest work on Festival City’s Imagine Show—a fountain spectacle outside the popular mall paired with a six-chapter musical score—marked a significant transition from sonic branding to composing.
“When I got the opportunity to create the theme for Festival City’s Imagine Show, it pushed me. It was challenging, and I failed three times before succeeding on the fourth attempt. That final piece had 254 musical layers and transitioned through Arabic, Asian, and classical influences," Haffar said in an exclusive interview with Gulf News.
The project also involved a collaboration with Loire Cotler, a vocalist from Hans Zimmer’s Dune team.
“I attended Hans Zimmer’s concert in Dubai, and when Loire performed, I was mesmerized. I told my friend, ‘I want her in my song.’ A month later, we were on a Zoom call. Loire is one of the kindest, most talented individuals I’ve worked with,” he added.
Her contributions—87 vocal layers—added depth to the Imagine Show theme, advancing Haffar’s work to an international level.
“Dubai has been my launch pad, but I’m ready to explore Hollywood now,” he said. “My goal is to create music that transcends borders."
Excerpts from our interview with Haffer ...
Your work with Festival City’s Imagine Show has been a game-changer. Can you tell us about it?
The Imagine Show was an extraordinary project and a turning point in my career. It all started when I was hired to create the official sonic branding for Festival City malls. During the process, I discovered that their fountain show, one of the largest in the world and a Guinness World Record holder, didn’t have its own signature theme. I immediately thought, “Let’s create something special.” I composed a melody that became the foundation for the Imagine Show theme. The piece took months to perfect, and I failed three times before finally getting it right. The final composition has 254 musical layers and six chapters, transitioning from Arabic to Asian, Chinese, Japanese, and classical influences. It was incredibly challenging but deeply rewarding. Seeing it come to life with the water, fire, and lights of the fountain was magical.
Dubai’s multicultural identity seems to resonate in your music. Was that intentional?
Absolutely. Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and I wanted the Imagine Show theme to reflect that. It transitions from Arabic to Asian influences and then to Western classical. It’s a celebration of the diversity that defines Dubai. This project isn’t just about music; it’s about representing the spirit of this incredible city.
Tell us more about being the Voice Of Dubai and your journey?
Many people recognise my voice from events like Dubai Opera, Dubai Expo 2020, and other major platforms, but I’m also a musician and a business owner. I’ve been creating music for brands for over 11 years.
That’s fascinating! You’ve mentioned personal challenges and connections in your life. How have they shaped your journey?
It’s been quite the journey. I’ve had some personal challenges, like surviving a car accident that left me in a coma for a month and a year-long recovery in the hospital. Those moments shape you. I think back to those days and remind myself of what I’ve overcome. My family has always been my strength—my mom, for instance, always reminds me of who I am and what I’ve achieved. Her words inspire me every time I face a challenge.
You’ve achieved so much in sonic branding. Can you tell us about transitioning into scoring music?
Sonic branding has been my life. It’s about creating those four-second melodies that stick with you—I’ve done that for brands like Festival City, Insurance Market, and many others. But scoring music is a different ballgame. When I got the opportunity to create the theme for Festival City’s Imagine Show, it pushed me ... It’s a proud moment for me because it’s a leap into a new domain.
What do you think sets you apart in the music industry?
A combination of factors. I’m self-taught, and my approach is guided by intuition and practice rather than formal training. My late best friend introduced me to the complexities of electronic music, and my parents—my mother, a businesswoman, and my father, a poet—gave me the foundation to blend strategy with creativity. That mix, along with relentless dedication, has been my edge.
Do you see AI as a threat or a collaborator in the music industry?
I see AI as a tool. It can assist with technical tasks, but it can’t replicate the emotional depth and intuition of human creativity. Sonic branding, for example, isn’t just about creating jingles. It’s about crafting a brand’s identity through sound—something that requires a deeply human touch.
What’s next for you? Do you plan to move to Hollywood?
Geography matters in this industry. Being close to decision-makers is important. Dubai has been my launch pad, but I’m ready to explore Hollywood. My goal is to create music that transcends borders. I believe authenticity and excellence will pave the way.
Any advice for aspiring artists?
Authenticity is key. Don’t chase trends or connections—focus on your craft and let your work speak for itself. And remember, all it takes is five minutes with the right person to change everything. Stay passionate and keep creating.
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