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Abu Dhabi, UAE, 22 November - Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) marked the conclusion of its landmark ‘Year of Ocean’ with an exclusive public performance of NUN at the university’s Zayed Theater. Created uniquely for SUAD by renowned choreographer Alaa Krimed and performed by the Sima Dance Company, the contemporary work explored humanity’s enduring connection to the ocean through expressive movement, sound and visual storytelling.
Drawing on the ancient symbolism of ‘Nun,’ the primordial ocean, the performance reflected on themes of origin, fragility and renewal, inviting audiences to contemplate how human life mirrors the ebb and flow of the sea. Over 200 guests attended the evening, which served as the final cultural highlight of SUAD’s year-long programme dedicated to ocean awareness and community engagement.
Launched at the beginning of 2025 and supported by the SUAD Ocean Institute established at COP28, SUAD’s Year of Ocean advanced major marine research missions in Abu Dhabi’s waters, including environmental DNA and acoustics studies and a mangrove ecosystem assessment. The university also delivered a series of public exhibitions, conferences and scientific events such as ‘An Ocean of Plankton’ and ‘Echoes of Earth’. SUAD further strengthened global ocean dialogue by hosting the international ‘Ocean Futures’ symposium with the Asia-Pacific Centre for Environmental Law (NUS) and contributing to the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 through panel sessions, workshops and student-led initiatives.
The closing performance of NUN underscored the essence of the initiative, reminding the community that protecting the ocean is both a scientific responsibility and a cultural call to action.
Reflecting on NUN and the year’s achievements, Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of SUAD, said: “The performance of NUN offered a powerful and poetic conclusion to our Year of Ocean. Through art, science and community engagement, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi has spent this year deepening understanding of our marine environment and advancing the research needed to protect it. The show reminds us that safeguarding the ocean is not only a scientific endeavour, but also a cultural responsibility; one that calls on each of us to reflect, connect and take meaningful action.”
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