Ballet, musicals, comedy shows, theatre productions, opera and more— it’s a packed season ahead.
Year after year, the spotting of the Suhail star heralds the end of summer, translating to a packed events season featuring everything from plays and dance performances to stand-up specials and art exhibitions. Here, we reveal all the unmissable cultural happenings that will take place across Dubai from September to December and belong on your radar.
The 7 Sins: 6 to 8 September
A homegrown production set around Dubai’s famous New Year’s Eve fireworks, The Seven Sins explores the seven deadly sins with a modern perspective—through the lens of social media. Expect a play that delves into how our daily lives invite us to sin and, impressively, features a cast and crew composed of 11 different nationalities. Learn more here.
Nataly Aukar: 8 September
Having opened for comedians such as Ramy Youssef, Mo Amer, and Gad El Maleh, Nataly Aukar is touring a new hour of stand-up around the world, Dubai included. The New Yorker, who hails from Beirut, draws from her life experiences in Lebanon and the US, so a comedic night of sharp wit and engaging storytelling is in the works. Learn more here.
Aida: 13 to 15 September
Back by popular demand, Aida is returning to Dubai Opera for the opening of its 2024-25 season. Performed by the Polish National Opera under the direction of Roberto Laganà Manoli, Giuseppe Verdi’s masterpiece tells the story of an Ethiopian princess who is enslaved by the Egyptians and falls in love with a military commander, leading to a tragic love triangle involving the pharaoh’s daughter. Learn more here.
Andy Warhol: The Glam Factory: 16 September to 31 October
Nearly four decades after his death, the King of Pop Art continues his reign, influencing everything from how creatives come together to the concept of fame. A highlight on the art calendar, this one-of-a-kind exhibition will present not only Andy Warhol’s greatest masterpieces (those famous iconic Monroe portraits included), but also delve into how his vision revolutionised the 20th century. Learn more here.
Go Back for Murder: 20 to 22 September
Join a woman on her quest to uncover the truth with the help of a letter from beyond the grave as Agatha Christie’s play is staged at The Junction. After a wrongly convicted woman, her mother Caroline, dies in prison, it is up to her daughter Carla to exonerate her memory by convincing a band of characters to return to the scene of the crime to investigate. Learn more here.
Prima Facie: 21 September
Jodie Comer of Killing Eve fame makes her West End debut, depicting Tessa, a brilliant young barrister who has worked her way up from working-class origins. Directed by Justin Martin, this award-winning play takes audiences to the heart of where emotion and experience collide with the rules of the game as an unexpected event forces her to confront the lines where the patriarchal power of the law, burden of proof, and morals diverge. Learn more here.
RUMInation: 29 September
Take a spiritual journey through Rumi’s world with an evening immersed in the region’s dances and sounds as the Theatre of Digital Art marks the Sufi poet’s 817th birthday. The two-hour event will feature a unique fusion of music, poetry, mystical whirling, and meditation that exudes ancient wisdom, so expect a feeling of inner peace with this one. Learn more here.
Candlelight: Tribute to Adele: 5 October
We may still be awaiting an Adele concert in Dubai, but the Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele hosted by Candlelight Concerts is a glowy consolation prize until that day comes. Played by flickering candlelight, this multi-sensory performance by the Gulf String Quartet will span 65 minutes and feature the English singer-songwriter’s biggest hits like “Hello” and “Rolling in the Deep”. Learn more here.
The Haiyaa World Tour: 7 October
Regardless of your stance on MSG, Uncle Roger needs no introduction, making Nigel Ng’s upcoming show a treat. The Malaysian stand-up comedian and content creator has not only amassed a staggering 250 million views on his YouTube channel, but also boasts a combined following of over eight million across his social media platforms. Learn more here.
The Tempest: 11 October
Magic, mystery and adventure collide on a remote island where a powerful sorcerer and his teenage daughter Miranda are stranded as The Tempest comes to Theatre by QE2. This play by Shakespeare is dubbed a classic, and for good reason — it’s packed with complex characters, unexpected twists, and thought-provoking themes that have stood the test of time. Learn more here.
City Pipes Orchestra: 12 October
Catch an unforgettable take on world-renowned rock anthems from the likes of Queen and The Beatles as the City Pipes orchestra takes the stage at Zabeel Theatre for one night only. Pairing Scottish and Irish bagpipes with energetic drums and an impressive electronic organ, this must-see show – complete with tartan kilts – is pure joy personified. Learn more here.
Romeo & Juliet Suite: 17 to 18 October
Witness what makes Benjamin Millepied’s choreography so innovative as LA Dance Project blends dance, cinema and theatre for a modern ballet adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. The groundbreaking production navigates seamlessly between stage and screen, with live projections capturing the dancers in real-time from unexpected places within the theatre, making it a truly fresh perspective on the star-crossed lovers’ tale. Learn more here.
Ardal O’Hanson: 19 October
Returning for the first time in over five years, Ardal O’Hanlon is best known for his roles in shows such as sitcom Father Ted and BBC crime drama Death in Paradise. Beloved for his quintessentially Irish humour and observational quips, the Irish actor-comedian will perform at Theatre by QE2 as part of his The Showing Off Must Go On worldwide tour. Learn more here.
Present Laughter: 19 October
The National Theatre Live screening of Noël Coward’s provocative comedy returns to Courtyard Playhouse, depicting star actor Garry Essendine’s escalating identity crisis. A powerful commentary of fame and masterfully portrayed by Andrew Scott (Vanya, Fleabag), the play follows a colourful life spiralling out of control as the actor’s many and various relationships compete for his attention. Learn more here.
Romesh Ranganathan: 25 October
Proving that third time’s the charm, Romesh Ranganathan’s highly awaited debut in Dubai will bring with it a brand-new show that examines the human condition. Famed for his self-deprecating humour and deadpan delivery, the British-Sri Lankan comedian is best known for The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan, The Ranganation, and Rob & Romesh Vs — all of which are hit TV projects in the UK. Learn more here.
The Woman in Black: 30 October to 2 November
Harnessing the intensity of live theatre, Stephen Mallatratt’s stage adaptation of the 1983 gothic horror novel continues to delight and terrify in equal measure, as illustrated by its return following sold-out runs in the past. The plot follows a young lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over his family by a ghost and engages a sceptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. Learn more here.
A Tale of Two Shores: 3 November
The rich traditions of Arab and Greek cultures will come together as Lebanese-Armenian pianist Guy Manoukian is joined on stage by a trio of Greek musicians – Thanassis Vassilopoulos (clarinet), Thanos Giouletzis (violin) and Andreas Karantinis (bouzouki) – for a night of sonic fusion. A Tale of Two Shores is not only a celebration of their shared heritage, but also an extraordinary collaboration that proves music knows no boundaries. Learn more here.
Jake Lambert: 9 November
Previously supporting the likes of Michael McIntyre and Jack Dee, Jake Lambert is now performing solo worldwide, bringing his The Sunshine Kid to Theatre by QE2. Examining his fear of being normal and how he tries to navigate everyday life with a little positivity, the comedian is using the comedy circuit to raise awareness about epilepsy, which he was diagnosed with as a university student. Learn more here.
Dances of the World: 23 to 24 November
The Igor Moiseyev Ballet has toured over 70 countries, showcasing the universal language of dance and uniquely blending classical ballet with folklore. Established in 1937 by legendary choreographer Igor Moiseyev and now led by Elena Shcherbakova, the troupe will make a pit stop in Dubai, performing its special Dances of the World programme at Zabeel Theatre. Learn more here.
Singin’ in the Rain: 30 November to 14 December
Bringing together Andrew Wright’s electrifying choreography, Simon Higlett’s stunning set design, and even live rain showers, Singin’ in the Rain will take over Dubai Opera for a splashy stage adaptation of the 1952 film. Staying true to its plotline, this award-winning musical will depict the transition from silent films to talkies during the late 1920s, complete with Don’s charm and Lina’s squeaky voice. Learn more here.
The Wizard of Oz: 14 to 26 December
The festive season wouldn’t be complete without The Wizard of Oz and, once again, the stage adaptation of this beloved family film will be brought to Theatre by QE2 by h2 Productions. Expect toe-tapping numbers, comedy routines, and encounters with iconic characters such as the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion as you join Dorothy on her journey down that yellow brick road. Learn more here.
