From Aziz Ansari to Take That, these are the concerts, comedy shows and theatre productions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that you don’t want to miss this year.
12 to 22 September 2024: Chicago The Musical
Curtain up, Abu Dhabi! The iconic Broadway sensation, Chicago The Musical, is set to sashay its way to the Etihad Arena stage from 12 to 22 September 2024. Renowned for its timeless tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, this Broadway classic promises an unforgettable experience for theatre enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Set against the backdrop of the roaring twenties, this musical transports audiences into the heart of prohibition-era Chicago, where corruption and glamour intertwine in a seductive dance. The story follows Roxie Hart, a vaudevillian chorus girl with dreams of stardom, who finds herself embroiled in a scandalous murder trial. Alongside fellow inmate Velma Kelly, Roxie navigates the treacherous waters of the criminal justice system, using charm, manipulation, and a killer set of pipes to vie for the spotlight and secure her freedom.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 185.
13 September: Apocalyptica
Once upon a time, Apocalyptica found fame as a classical Metallica tribute act, with time, evolving into a metal band that uses electric cellos as instruments and writes its own songs. The Finnish cello rockers will make their debut in Dubai at The Agenda in Dubai Media City on 13 September, performing carefully crafted interpretations of Metallica’s biggest hits. The concert forms part of Apocalyptica’s European Tour, which begins in Helsinki on 8 June and draws to a close in Belgrade on 30 November.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 299.
4 October: Macklemore
Best known for his chart-topping hits, including “Thrift Shop” and “Can’t Hold Us”, Macklemore has sparked global conversations on important topics like equality and self-expression. With multiple Grammy Awards to his name, Macklemore has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity in the music industry. In 2012 he teamed up with producer Ryan Lewis and unveiled The Heist. The duo garnered four GRAMMY Awards in the categories of “Best New Artist,” “Best Rap Album” for The Heist, and “Best Rap Song” and “Best Rap Performance” for “Thrift Shop.”
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 150.
6 October 2024: Joanna Lumley & Paul Chowdhry
You may only know Joanna Lumley from her hilarious portrayal of the blunt, champagne-guzzling, chain-smoking Patsy Stone in the television series Absolutely Fabulous, but with a career that spans over four decades, she’s quite the multihyphenate. Actress, author, activist, voiceover artist, model, humanitarian — not only has Lumley lived many lives, but she’s also a great storyteller, making the upcoming Me & My Travels a highlight on the events calendar. But Lumley’s presence on stage isn’t the only thing to look forward to. She will be followed by actor and comedian Paul Chowdhry, who will return to the city to perform at Dubai Opera on the same night.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via dubaiopera.com and start from AED 195.
7 October 2024: Nigel Ng
Nigel Ng, the mastermind behind the global viral sensation ‘Uncle Roger’ and the host of the podcast sensation ‘Rice To Meet You,’ is bringing his unique and captivating brand of comedy to Dubai. With over 250 million views on YouTube and a brand new show set to tour the United Kingdom, Nigel Ng is a comedic force to be reckoned with. Based in London, Nigel Ng gained widespread fame in 2020 for his character Uncle Roger, a middle-aged Asian man who critiques an egg fried rice video, has catapulted him to fame, with his YouTube channel amassing a staggering 250 million views and over 8 million followers across his various social media platforms.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 195.
19 October 2024: Ardal O’Hanlon
Dubai can’t get enough of the dim-witted Father Dougal McGuire, and the upcoming show from Ardal O’Hanlon at Theatre by QE2 is proof — the Irish star will take the stage at the city’s only licensed theatre on 19 October as part of his The Showing Off Must Go On worldwide tour. Famed for his roles in shows such as sitcom Father Ted and BBC crime drama Death in Paradise – and recently seen in Taskmaster and Would I Lie to You – he is an accomplished actor, comedian and author. The son of a politician, O’Hanlon has made material about the real world his signature, so expect plenty of stories, observations and anecdotes about the absurdity of life come October.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 195.
25 October 2024: Romesh Ranganathan
Third time’s the charm — that’s the hope when it comes to Romesh Ranganathan’s highly awaited debut in Dubai. The British-Sri Lankan comedian will headline Coca-Cola Arena this October, as confirmed by GME Events. Famed for his self-deprecating humour and deadpan delivery, the comic is best known for The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan, The Ranganation, Rob & Romesh Vs, and A League of Their Own, all of which are hit TV projects in the UK. You may also recognise him from Asian Provocateur, a travel documentary that saw Ranganathan reluctantly travel to Sri Lanka in order to connect with his roots after his mother – a popular fixture in his acts – hilariously dubbed him a “coconut”.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 195.
25 October: Take That
UAE-based concert promoter MAC Global has joined forces with Miral and the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi to bring Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald back to our shores. The trio is set to take the stage at Etihad Park as part of their upcoming This Life on Tour concert tour. For those looking to take a trip down memory lane, some of the groups greatest hits include “Pray”, “Sure”, “Back for Good”, “Never Forget”, and “Greatest Day”.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 299.
26 October: KT Tunstall
Fans of noughties nostalgia, take note. Scottish singer KT Tunstall will perform live in Dubai on Saturday, 26 October 2024. So, grab your iPods and update your MySpace page in preparation for the event at Bla Bla Dubai. KT Tunstall rose to fame with her unique blend of introspective folk and driving rock. Her breakout moment came in 2004 with a captivating live performance of “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” on Later… with Jools Holland. This song, along with “Suddenly I See,” became global hits from her multi-platinum debut album, “Eye to the Telescope.” KT Tunstall’s performance will take place inside The Tent at Bla Bla Dubai.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 199.
26 October 2024: Sophie Ellis-Bextor
Sophie Ellis-Bextor is set to grace the Dubai Opera stage with her signature blend of pop and disco vibes. The acclaimed British singer-songwriter’s career skyrocketed in the early 2000s with hits like “Groovejet (If This Ain’t Love) ” and “Murder on the Dancefloor,” which returned to the charts last year, thanks to its inclusion in the film Saltburn. Her show at Dubai Opera is part of her latest tour, which has already garnered critical acclaim for its electric energy and nostalgic appeal. Attendees can expect a journey through Ellis-Bextor’s illustrious career, featuring a mix of beloved classics and newer tracks from her recent album, “Songs from the Kitchen Disco.”
🎟️ Tickets will be available soon via Dubai Opera.
2 November 2024: Mixtape Festival
There’s good news for 90s kids as Live Nation Middle East and Bla Bla Dubai have officially announced the return of Mixtape Festival, bringing with it plenty of throwback pop classics. The nostalgia-infused party will take place on 2 November and feature full set performances by a whole host of beloved 90s and noughties artists — S Club, Melanie C, Peter Andre, and Gareth Gates included. The afternoon-to-night bash is expected to continue into the early hours as Bla Bla’s pool area will be transformed into a vibrant dance floor, making it the ultimate open-air extravaganza, complete with striking views of Ain Dubai.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Live Nation and start from AED 245
15 to 17 November: Life of Pi
Whether you’re a bona fide theatre buff or in need of an imaginary emotional support animal to power through a struggle, the upcoming production of Life of Pi is major news. Taking place at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, from 15 to 17 November, it marks the very first international play to come to Abu Dhabi. Based on Yann Martel’s best-selling book that has sold over 15 million copies and became a worldwide phenomenon, the hit show has won three Tony Awards and five Olivier Awards, including Best New Play. Told with jaw-dropping visuals, world-class puppetry, and exquisite stagecraft, the spellbinding production of Life of Pi creates a breathtaking theatrical experience unlike any other.
🎟️ Tickets are available now via Platinumlist and start from AED 200.
22 November 2024: Lang Lang
Internationally acclaimed pianist Lang Lang will bring the magic of Walt Disney movie soundtracks to life in a newly reimagined show at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, this November. Accompanied by a full orchestra and special guests, Lang Lang promises an extraordinary musical and visual experience featuring Disney’s most beloved songs. Lang Lang has enchanted audiences worldwide with his interpretations of Disney classics, from contemporary hits like “Let It Go” from Frozen and “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan to timeless favourites such as “Someday My Prince Will Come” from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book, and “Chim Chim Cheree” from Mary Poppins. This concert offers a live musical journey through cherished songs that span generations, appealing to both adults and children alike.
🎟️ Tickets are available via Platinumlist and start from AED 195.
23 November 2024: Wireless Middle East
Wireless Festival Middle East, the region’s biggest celebration of urban music and pop culture will take over Etihad Park, Yas Island on 23 November, and we’ve just been told that R&B superstar SZA and British rapper 21 Savage will headline. Other names just announced include experimental record producer Yeat, American rapper Flo Milli, Haitian-American singer and songwriter Fridayy, Indian singer Karan Aujla, and British-Punjabi star Raf-Saperra. Also confirmed to perform are Pakistani rapper Faris Shafi, Belgian hip-hop artist Dina Ayada, Egyptian-American producer Mazen, British rapper Lancey Foux, and hip-hop duo Seedhe Maut.
🎟️ Tickets are available via Live Nation and start from AED 295.
12 December 2024: Thirty Seconds to Mars
Fronted by the eclectic and uber-talented Jared Leto, Thirty Seconds to Mars will perform at Coca-Cola Arena on 12 December, bringing its unique style of alternative rock with it. The band has captivated audiences around the world with its powerful sound and thought-provoking lyrics for over two decades, and the UAE is no exception. It has already rocked venues like Dubai World Trade Centre and Etihad Park in the past. From their early days with epic 12-minute songs to their current, more minimalistic approach, the Leto brothers have continuously pushed the boundaries of rock music, with their latest album showcasing their growth as artists. Fans can therefore look forward to the band’s latest work at the upcoming concert at Coca-Cola Arena — the anthemic “Life Is Beautiful” and introspective “Midnight Prayer” included.
🎟️ Tickets are available via Live Nation and start from AED 295.
9 December 2024: Bryan Adam
Between Chicago in September, Take That in October, and AR Rahman in November, it’s set to be a musical winter season at Etihad Area. Now, with Bryan Adams’ return to the UAE confirmed, December will be no different as the Canadian rockstar will perform during the World Tennis League. The concert, part of his extended So Happy It Hurts world tour, will be held on 19 December. With a career spanning over four decades, he has sold over 75 million records worldwide and earned multiple Grammy Awards. He is best known for timeless hits such as “Summer of ’69”, “Here I am”, and “Run to You.”
🎟️ Tickets are available via Platinumlist and start from AED 199.
25 January 2025: Green Day
Green Day’s debut in the Middle East is confirmed. The legendary rock band will perform in Dubai on 27 January, 2025, and it’s all thanks to a collaboration between All Things Live Middle East and Expo City Dubai, where an al fresco venue that can accommodate 30,000 concertgoers will be built especially for the event. We’re told that rock superstars Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, and Tré Cool will play a selection of their biggest hits including “American Idiot”, “Boulevard of Broken Dreams”, and “Wake Me Up When September Ends” off their 8x Platinum-certified album American Idiot, inevitably evoking the angsty teen years of audiences. Cuts from their 10x Platinum Diamond-certified album Dookie and most recently released studio album, Saviors, are also expected.
🎟️ Tickets will be available via Platinumlist and start from AED 445.
31 January 2025: CAS
Fans of CAS will have already caught them live as the band made an intimate debut at the Hard Rock Cafe in Dubai before headlining the Amplified Music Festival in Abu Dhabi back in 2022. Everyone else, well, you ought to mark your calendars as the band is confirmed to return to the UAE, this time taking the stage at Coca-Cola Arena on 31 January 2025. General tickets will follow on Friday, 24 May. For the uninitiated, the American dream pop band formed in 2008 and has become synonymous with evocative, slow-burn music that captures the complexities of relationships and emotional landscapes. Led by Greg Gonzalez, CAS has garnered a massive following worldwide thanks to iconic songs like “Apocalypse” and “Sunsetz”.
🎟️ Tickets will be available via Live Nation Middle East.
