The line-up of Abu Dhabi Comedy Season’s second edition has dropped — and it’s epic.
If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to laugh more in 2025, you’re well on your way — the biggest names in comedy are headed to the capital for the return of Abu Dhabi Comedy Season. The second instalment is set to be bigger, better, and bolder than the inaugural edition, translating to a line-up packed with global stars who will perform at Etihad Arena on Yas Island between April and July. And first on the roster? One of the most successful comedians on the planet.
Trevor Noah
26 April
Having previously brought his Off The Record tour to Abu Dhabi in February, Noah charmed audiences with his sharp observational comedy and straight-faced delivery during this sold-out show. Known for his multifaceted talent as a comedian, writer, producer, political commentator, actor, and former host of The Daily Show, Noah’s unique ability to blend sharp social commentary with side-splitting humour has earned him a dedicated fan base worldwide. Now, he’s back by popular demand, promising an evening of laughter, reflection, and pure entertainment for fans in the UAE.
Kevin Hart
2 May
A regular visitor to the UAE, this much-loved funny man will once again bring his rib-tickling stand-up show for a night of hilarity that is not to be missed. The Emmy and Grammy-nominated talent kickstarted his career as a comedian during an amateur night at a local comedy club and has since evolved into one of Hollywood’s box office powerhouses. Celebrating 11 films opening at number one and a plethora of globally renowned movies in his repertoire, Hart’s comedic genius knows no bounds.
Gad Elmaleh
30 May
The Moroccan-Canadian comedian and actor who is celebrated as one of the funniest people in France will be adding his unique charm to the line-up. Known for his standout roles in films like Midnight in Paris and his Netflix series Huge in France, Elmaleh has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique humour and storytelling. Boasting a career spanning acclaimed one-man shows, international tours, and French cinema, his addition promises an evening of endless laughs.
Michael McIntyre
10 May
Famous for his record-breaking 33 sold-out shows at London’s O2 Arena, this comedy superstar is set to bring his signature charm to the big-name roster. McIntyre has captivated audiences worldwide through award-winning TV hits such as Michael McIntyre’s Big Show and The Wheel, alongside global tours that have sold over four million tickets. Audiences can expect his quick wit and infectious humour to steal the spotlight at the upcoming Abu Dhabi Comedy Season.
Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesia
3 May
Iglesias is celebrated as one of the world’s leading stand-up comedians, performing to sold-out audiences worldwide and racking up nearly a billion views on YouTube. He has also amassed a staggering 25 million followers on social media. In 2018, he was featured alongside comedy legends Jerry Seinfeld and Chris Rock in The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 40 Comedy Players and has headlined iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden and Sydney Opera House.
Bill Burr
12 July
Burr is the quick-witted comic powerhouse behind the Monday Morning Podcast and a string of hit stand-up specials like Walk Your Way Out and the Grammy-nominated Paper Tiger. Known for his unapologetically sharp humour, he’s not just a comedy legend – Rolling Stone named him one of the 50 Best Stand-Up Comics of All Time – but also a familiar face from Breaking Bad as the scheming Patrick Kuby. With Emmy nods for his darkly hilarious Immoral Compass and a reputation for tackling life’s absurdities head-on, Burr keeps audiences laughing, thinking, and coming back for more.
Last year’s inaugural Abu Dhabi Comedy Season was nothing short of spectacular, drawing over 40,000 attendees and solidifying itself as a standout moment in the region’s entertainment calendar. Amongst the highlights was a sold-out performance by Dave Chappelle, whose razor-sharp humour and captivating stage presence delivered the largest comedy show ever hosted in the Middle East.
Audiences were also treated to a legendary collaboration between Bassem Youssef and Maz Jobrani, whose sold-out show blended cultural satire and witty insights. Other comedic geniuses to grace the stage included Andrew Schulz, Tom Segura, Aziz Ansari, Chris Tucker, Tommy Tiernan, and Kevin Bridges. Abu Dhabi Comedy Season is organised by Live Nation Middle East and GME Events, and in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral. Tickets to the upcoming edition will go on sale at 8am on 23 December via www.livenation.me.
DSCVR: Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. Etihad Arena, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. @etihadarena.ae @livenationme
