68 concerts and events coming to the UAE in 2026, from Jennifer Lopez to Mariah Carey
The UAE’s entertainment calendar features international music stars, Arabic performers, comedy, ballet, opera and theatre across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.
The UAE is preparing for a packed season of live entertainment, with concerts, festivals, comedy shows and theatrical productions scheduled across the country through the end of 2026. From global pop icons to celebrated Arab musicians, the upcoming programme offers something for audiences with a wide range of musical and cultural interests.
Among the biggest names are Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, Andrea Bocelli, Imagine Dragons and Atif Aslam, alongside regional favourites and internationally recognised comedians.
Jennifer Lopez joins Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concert line-up
Jennifer Lopez will headline the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after-race concert on December 4 at Etihad Live, performing alongside American singer-songwriter Alex Warren. The appearance adds another major name to a programme that includes Lewis Capaldi, Zara Larsson, Imagine Dragons, The Chainsmokers and The Script.
The four-night concert series will run alongside the Formula One weekend, making Yas Island a major destination for music fans in December. Read more about the Jennifer Lopez Abu Dhabi F1 concert announcement.
Mariah Carey brings festive favourites to Abu Dhabi
Mariah Carey will return to the UAE capital on December 12 for her Christmastime show at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. Fans can look forward to festive favourites such as All I Want for Christmas Is You, alongside songs from her wider catalogue.
The five-time Grammy Award winner remains one of pop music’s most successful artists, with hits including Hero, Fantasy and We Belong Together. Tickets start at Dh249. More details are available in The National’s report on Mariah Carey’s Abu Dhabi concert.
Wasla Festival celebrates Arab music in Dubai
Regional music will take centre stage at Wasla Festival on November 28 at Jubilee Park, Expo City Dubai. The line-up features Lebanese composer and oud maestro Marcel Khalife, Palestinian ensemble Le Trio Joubran, Syrian duo TootArd and Emirati-Honduran singer Fatima.
The festival brings together artists representing different musical traditions, with Arabic poetry, contemporary sounds and regional influences forming the heart of the programme. Tickets start at Dh350. Visitors can find further information through the official Wasla Festival listing.
Comedy, classical music and theatre add variety
Beyond the headline concerts, the UAE’s entertainment calendar includes stand-up performances by Mo Amer and Trevor Noah, as well as classical music appearances by Andrea Bocelli. Theatre fans can also look forward to Chicago the Musical at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai in December.
Other highlights include Atif Aslam’s concert in Dubai on November 27 and Turkish pop star Tarkan’s performance at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on the same day.
A busy season for UAE entertainment
With events spanning pop, rock, Arabic music, comedy, opera and theatre, the coming months offer residents and visitors plenty of opportunities to experience live entertainment. As major international performers share the calendar with regional talent, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are set for a lively finish to 2026.
Readers should check official venue and ticketing websites for the latest schedules, prices and entry requirements before making plans.
