Cool concerts in the UAE: From Dizzee Rascal to Robbie Williams
Whether you’re a teenybopper or K-popper, here are the best concerts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this year.
Live entertainment is well and truly back in the UAE with a slew of artists taking to stages across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. So, if you’re a lover of live concerts these are the all-important dates for your diaries. Curtain up – here are the best concerts in the UAE.
T-Pain: 6 October
T-Pain, whose real name is Faheem Rashad Najm, will headline the NBA Fan Appreciation Day at Etihad Arena on Friday, 6 October. The American singer, songwriter, and producer rose to fame in the mid-2000s with his distinctive use of Auto-Tune. He is best known for hits like Bartender. Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin’) and I’m Sprung, which dominated the charts and became anthems of a generation.
GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for tickets and more information.
Boney M Experience: 6 & 7 October
UAE, we have some groovy news. Sheyla Bonnick’s seventies disco-inspired Boney M Experience is bringing a mix of funk and soul to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The concerts are coming to Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Hotel on 7 October, and Dubai’s Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach on 6 October. Formed in 1976, they topped the charts with the songs Daddy Cool, Rivers of Babylon. Over the years, Boney M’s line-up has changed. Sheyla Bonnick featured on the singles Baby Do Ya Wanna Bump and Sunny, and was later given a solo record deal.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Denzel Curry: 12 October
Dubai, get ready to turn up the heat as the sensational American rapper and singer, Denzel Curry makes his way to the city on Thursday, 12 October. Denzel’s debut studio album, Nostalgic 64, dropped in 2013. And guess what? He was still in high school at the time. Currently, his discography boasts three extended plays and four studio albums. His latest track Walkin, from the album Melt My Eyez See Your Future, is an absolute banger, showing Denzel’s dynamic rap prowess. In fact, the extended edition of Melt My Eyez See Your Future — the song — hit the 17th spot on the Billboard 200 chart as well.
GO: Visit https://blabladubai.ae for more information.
KISS: 13 October
KISS is bringing their End of the Road World Tour to Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, marking the band’s only concert in the Middle East. The band’s line-up includes two original members, Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, along with drummer Eric Singer and guitarist Tommy Thayer, ensuring the stage is set for an electrifying experience. Expect the band’s biggest hits, including the anthems I Was Made for Lovin’ You, Rock and Roll All Nite, Detroit Rock City, and Heaven’s on Fire. KISS last graced Dubai in December 2020, delivering a monumental New Year’s Eve concert at Atlantis, The Palm, where they broke two Guinness World Records while captivating a global audience of two million. Tickets from AED 295.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
The Irish Village presents The Boys Are Back In Town: 13 October
Get ready for some pure pop. British boybands Blue, Boyz Life and Five are coming together for one night in Dubai. The Irish Village presents The Boys Are Back In Town takes place at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium on 13 October. Blue consists of Antony Costa, Duncan James and Simone Webbe. The group are best known for their hit songs All Rise, Too Close and One Love. In 2011, they reformed and represented the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest. Boyz Life consists of two former boyband members: Keith Duffy from Boyzone and Brian McFadden from Westlife. While Five consist of Abz Love, Ritchie Neville, Sean Conlon, Scott Robinson and Ritchie Neville. Hailing from London, their hit songs include Keep On Moving, Slam Dunk (Da Funk) and When The Lights Go Out. The group went on to sell more than 20 million records worldwide. So, grab the scrunchies and plaid and get transported back to the nineties.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Robbie Williams: 18 October
Let him entertain you. British superstar Robbie Williams is performing at Etihad Arena on Wednesday, 18 October. The hitmaker is bringing his showmanship to Abu Dhabi, and will be celebrating his 25-year career. Robbie hails from Stoke on Trent, England. After his mum saw an advert seeking members for a new boyband, he went on to audition for Take That. He started in the group in 1990, and launched his solo career in 1996. If his previous concerts are anything to go by, we’re expecting cheeky banter, high energy, and, of course, non-stop hits. His biggest songs include Feel, Millennium, Rock DJ and She’s the One. Plus, Angels, which was written in 25 minutes, and went on to become his best-selling single.
GO: Visit https://www.livenation.me for more information.
Amr Diab: 20 October
Egyptian singer, songwriter, and actor Amr Diab will perform at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena this October. Over four decades, Amr Diab has left a mark on both the Arabic and global music scenes. Known as the “Father of Mediterranean Music,” Amr Diab has consistently pushed artistic boundaries by seamlessly blending traditional Arabic melodies with contemporary pop and electronic influences. His career boasts a staggering catalogue of more than 30 albums, earning him the title of the best-selling Middle Eastern artist in the Guinness World Records. With seven World Music Awards, five Platinum Record Awards, and six African Music Awards to his name, Amr Diab’s concert promises to be the highlight of Dubai’s musical calendar for 2023. Tickets from AED 195.
GO: Visit coca-cola-arena.com for tickets and more information.
Craig David: 21 October
The British singer. Craig David is headed to DXBeat at Barasti Beach Bar. He is famous for his mix of soul, garage and R&B. He hit the headlines when he was 19 years old, and his debut single Fill Me In and album Born to Do It topped the UK charts. His hit singles include 7 Days, Rise & Fall and Walking Away. Over his career, he has sold 15 million records and been nominated for 14 BRIT Awards and two Grammy Awards.
GO: Visit www.dxbeats.ae for rickes and more information.
Sean Paul: 21 October 2023
Summer may be over, but with hits like Temperature and We Be Burnin under his belt, Sean Paul is sure to bring the heat when he performs at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena on Saturday, 21 October 2023. Born Sean Paul Ryan Francis Henriques, the Jamaican artist is known for his infectious rhythms and charismatic stage presence. Sean’s breakthrough came in the early 2000s with the release of his album Dutty Rock, which featured the international hit singles Gimme The Light and Get Busy, which propelled him to global stardom. A feature on Beyoncé’s 2003 smash hit single Baby Boy sealed the deal.
GO: Visit coca-cola-arena.com for tickets and more information.
Neha Kakkar: 22 October 2023
Dubai, get ready to groove and move to the beats of Neha Kakkar. Performing a solo show at Coca-Cola Arena, she is coming to the city on 22 October. Her journey into music started with Indian Idol, where she blew everyone away with her killer voice and moves, earning herself the sassy nickname ‘Indian Shakira.’ In 2018, she secured the Bollywood Track Award at the Brit Asia TV Music Awards for Dilbar from Satyameva Jayate. With numerous hits under her belt such as Kar Gayi Chull, Sunny Sunny, Manali Trance and Akkad Bakkad, we’re expecting Neha to wow the Dubai crowd once again.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Khalid: 27 October 2023
If the tracks Love Lies and Young, Dumb & Broke get you grooving, you’ll be pleased to hear that tickets are now on sale to see the platinum-selling R&B superstar Khalid live in Dubai. The American singer-songwriter will perform in Dubai for the first time, taking to the stage at Coca-Cola Arena on Friday, 27 October. Khalid has risen to superstardom in the music industry due to his soulful voice, relatable lyrics, and genre-blurring sound. He has also been recognised with Grammy nominations and has collaborated with everyone from Alicia Keys and Billie Eilish to Normani, Shawn Mendes and Summer Walker. Tickets start at AED 199 and are available now via Platinumlist.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Macklemore: 28 October 2023
Born Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, Macklemore is an American rapper and songwriter whose unique style and socially conscious lyrics have earned him a notoriety in the world of hip-hop. He gained widespread recognition alongside producer Ryan Lewis with their 2012 breakout single, Thrift Shop, which used quick-fire wordplay over a catchy beat. In a career spanning almost two decades, Macklemore has worked with Ed Sheeran, Idris Elba, Kesha, Lil Yachty and Martin Garrix. He will now make his Dubai debut with a performance at Coca-Cola Arena in City Walk. Get ready to return to the Good Old Days with tickets starting from AED 199 via Platinumlist.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Dizzee Rascal: 28 October 2023
Are you ready to go bonkers? British garage star Dizzee Rascal is coming to Dubai. Taking place at Emirates Golf Club on 28 October, the event will showcase his hits. Dylan Kwabena Mills, better known as Dizzee Rascal, hails from Bow in East London. In 2003, he released his first album, Boy in Da Corner. The singles included I Luv U and Fix Up, Look Sharp. At 19 years old, he won the Mercury Prize for the best album, and became the youngest recipient of the award. We are hoping the concert in Dubai includes his hit songs Bonkers, Dance Wiv Me, and Holiday.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Bastille: 1 November
British indie band Bastille will take to the stage at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena in November. Spearheaded by lead vocalist, Dan Smith, the band’s lineup also features the talents of keyboardist Kyle Simmons, bassist and guitarist Will Farquarson, and drummer Chris Wood. Bastille have made a name for themselves with their distinctive fusion of indie pop, electrifying sounds, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their debut album, Bad Blood, unleashed in 2013, sold over a million copies in the UK and stormed to the top of the UK Album Charts. Some of their chart-topping singles include the likes of Good Grief, Happier, Of the Night and Pompeii. Tickets are available now via Platinumlist. Silver tickets start from AED 199, regular standing and diamond seating tickets start from AED 299, and gold circle standing starts from AED 350.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Black Coffee: 3 November 2023
Party people of Dubai, mark your calendars because Grammy-winning DJ sensation, Black Coffee, is making his triumphant return to Dubai. For the unversed, Black Coffee is no stranger to Dubai. He’s already performed twice in the city this year and has carved his name in the annals of music history, particularly for his role in kwaito — a type of South African pop music. His signature sound, a blend of jazz and traditional African beats, seamlessly merges with the essence of house music. The concert takes place a White Dubai Harbour and doors open at 6pm.
GO: Follow @whitedubai on Instagram for more information.
Bryan Adams: 4 November 2023
Prepare for an extraordinary musical experience as the Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams will perform at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena as part of his highly anticipated So Happy It Hurts World Tour. With a career spanning over four decades, Adams has solidified his place as a mainstay in the music industry. His hits such as (Everything I Do) I Do It For You, Heaven, and Summer of ’69 have become timeless anthems. Having previously performed in Dubai at the Autism Rocks Arena in 2017, Adams’ return to the city promises to be a momentous occasion. Tickets from AED 199.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Loaded Festival: 4 November 2023
Get ready to be transported back to the nostalgic 90s with a throwback event coming your way. The highly anticipated music festival, Loaded, is about to rock The Irish Village in Dubai like never before. Four iconic 90s bands will take the stage by storm at Loaded. Brace yourselves for Dodgy, Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Stereo MC and Toploader, each armed with its own unique sound and infectious energy that will set the atmosphere on fire.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Nile Rodgers & Chic: 4 November 2023
Between a restaurant, a trendy beach club, and 21 bars, Bla Bla has singlehandedly redefined the social scene of Dubai. Now, it’s taking things up a notch with the launch of a brand-new outdoor stage. As for the inaugural act to take said stage? Nile Rodgers & Chic. The American disco band that was formed back in 1972 by guitarist Nile Rodgers and bassist Bernard Edwards is still going strong, and it’s headed to Dubai on Saturday, 4 November. Expect to hear chart-topping hits such as Good Times and Le Freak. Tickets are now on sale from Platinumlist, with early bird tickets starting at AED 299.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Hyperound K-Fest Abu Dhabi: 11 November 2023
If you know your BTS from your BLACKPINK, then we have some exciting news. Hyperound K-Fest returns to Abu Dhabi, and it has announced its dazzling line-up. Taking place on 11 November at Etihad Arena, it is bringing K-pop stars including Cherry Bullet, DPR Ian, Enhypen, Peakboy, Sunmi and XG. The boyband Enhypen includes Heeseung, Jake, Jay, Jungwon, Ni-Ki, Sunghoon and Sunoo. Hailing from South Korea, the group were formed by Belift Lab through the reality TV show, I-Land. The group released their debut album in November 2020, Border: Day One. Since then, they amassed a large following – 13 million followers on Instagram, no less.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Gims: 18 November
All Africa Festival is coming to Abu Dhabi, and runs from 17 to 19 November. Taking place in Etihad Park, it will bring together entertainment from international musicians and local DJs, which celebrates African culture. French-Congolese singer, songwriter, and rapper Gims will headline Abu Dhabi’s All Africa Festival. Known for his musical style that blends hip-hop and Afrobeat influences, revellers can expect to hear the tracks Sapés Comme Jamais and J’me tire. Tickets to the All Africa Festival are now available from AED 105 via Platinulist.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
Mixtape Dubai: 18 November 2023
If iPods, Popworld and Heat magazine mean something to you, then you’ll be excited about Mixtape Dubai. Taking place at Bla Bla Dubai on Saturday, 18 November, the concert brings together the biggest names from the noughties. Hosted by DJ Chris Moyles, the line-up includes Busted, Sugababes, Snap! and Vengaboys. Busted are best known for the songs Sleeping With the Light On and What I Go To School For, while the Sugababes hit singles include Freak Like Me, Round Round, Hole in the Head, and Push the Button.
GO: Visit https://www.livenation.me for more information.
Rudimental: 18 November
Rudimental: make their way to DXBeats at Barasti Beach Bar. The British drum and bass act are made up of Kesi Dryden, Leon Rolle and Piers Aggett. In the UK charts, the group have had two number albums and three number one singles. The group’s hits include Not Giving In, Powerful and Waiting All Night. Plus, over their career, they have collaborated with Becky Hill, Ella Eyre and Emeli Sande.
GO: Visit www.dxbeats.ae for rickes and more information.
Ava Max: 24 November 2023
Get ready for the return of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. To ignite the race weekend in true style, Ava Max will grace the stage at Etihad Park. Hailing from Wisconsin, Ava Max burst onto the music scene in 2018 with her sensational debut single, Sweet But Psycho. Her talent continued to shine through with infectious tracks like Kings & Queens and So Am I, capturing the attention of listeners worldwide.
GO: Visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com for tickets and more information.
Jethro Tull: 24 November 2023
It’s time to rock and roll. The British band Jethro Tull are coming to Dubai Opera. The group are bringing their signature progressive rock sounds to the city, and the concert takes place on Friday, 24 November. The Jethro Tull line-up coming to Dubai includes Ian Anderson on flute, acoustic guitar, harmonica and vocals; Joe Parrish-James on guitar; Scott Hammond on drums; John O’Hara on piano, keyboards and accordion; and David Goodier on bass guitar. Visitors can expect to hear classics like Aqualung, Bourée, Locomotive Breath and Heavy Horses. Plus, tracks from the more recent albums Tull, RökFlöte and The Zealot Gene.
GO: Visit https://www.dubaiopera.com for more information.
Tiësto: 24 November 2023
Adding to the exhilarating line-up of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023 festivities is dance music visionary, Tiësto. Hailing from the Netherlands, this DJ and producer has etched his name deep into the annals of electronic dance music. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Tiësto is widely revered as The Godfather of EDM, recognised for his chart-topping hits like Don’t Be Shy, The Business, and The Motto. Get ready to be swept away by the electrifying energy of Tiësto’s set as he takes the stage, bringing an unforgettable experience to the Formula 1 festivities.
GO: Visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com for tickets and more information.
Cele Retro Fest: 25 November 2023
Cele Retro Fest features ten dazzling artists, which includes Haddaway, Ingrid, La Bouche, Nana Darkman, Na-Na, Mr President and Snap. Headliners include the Swedish Nigerian Dr Alban, who owns his own record label, Dr Records. He is famous for blending Euro dance with hip-hop and reggae. Plus, Ice MC is a British rapper who is known for Euro dance hits including Take Away Colour and Think About the Way. Taking place at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre on 25 November, it’s expected to be a nostalgic evening of nineties and noughties hits.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Foo Fighters: 26 November 2023
Prepare for an extraordinary musical spectacle as the legendary rock group Foo Fighters takes centre stage as the headliner for the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2023. Founded by Dave Grohl in 1994, these American rock sensations are renowned for their electrifying stage presence and stadium anthems. With a vast collection of chart-topping hits such as Best of You, Everlong, Learn To Fly, and Monkey Wrench, Foo Fighters have solidified their status as a powerhouse in the music industry. Although their highly anticipated performance as part of the Yasalam After-Race Concert Series in 2021 was cancelled due to unforeseen medical circumstances, their debut in the UAE is set to be extraordinary.
GO: Visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com for tickets and more information.
UB40, The Wailers & Trojan Sound System: 23 December
Tennis fans, listen up — the World Tennis League is gearing up to return for its second season of concerts. As for who’s taking the stage this year? UB40, The Original Wailers, and Trojan Sound System are the first artists announced for this year’s edition, with the bands performing in a special Reggae Night concert. Trojan Sound System will kick things off, followed by The Original Wailers featuring Al Anderson, the sole member of the Bob Marley and The Wailers mid-1970s line-up. Anderson, selected by reggae legend Bob Marley as his lead guitarist, rose to fame thanks to his stunning lead work on classics such as No Woman, No Cry. UB40, featuring lead singer and founder Ali Campbell, will close out the evening by performing smash-hit singles like Falling in Love With You and Red Red Wine. Tickets are now available via the Etihad Arena website as well as Platinumlist and Virgin Megastores, with prices starting from AED 225.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sting: 31 December
Start 2024 off in style because British singer Sting has announced he is coming to Dubai. The hitmaker will perform at The Atlantis, The Palm’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. Sting’s career spans five decades and his hit songs include Fields of Gold, Shape Of My Heart, Roxanne, Englishman In New York, Every Breath You Take and Message In A Bottle. He has won an impressive 17 Grammy Awards with The Police and as a solo artist. Atlantis The Palm’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner takes place on a custom-built deck under the starlit sky. The evening includes a 30-piece live band, a buffet with dishes ranging from lobster to caviar, and live cooking stations. Tickets start from AED 4,500.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for more information.
UNTOLD: 15 to 18 February 2024
Dubai is welcoming a brand-new music festival. The world-renowned UNTOLD will take place at Expo City Dubai. Scheduled for February 2024, UNTOLD Dubai will boast a stellar line-up of international live acts and DJs, including DJ Armin van Buuren. UNTOLD Dubai has been created in partnership with Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and Expo City Dubai. The festival aims to revolutionise entertainment and welcome big-name acts to the city. Plus, it will include lights, fireworks, laser shows and a record-breaking event.
GO: Visit https://untold.ae/dubai for more information.
REWIND Festival DXB: 1 March and 2 March 2024
Prepare to immerse yourself in a spectacular celebration of the sounds from the 80s and 90s at Rewind Festival DXB. Building upon the success of the sold-out show in 2023, Rewind DXB is all set to recreate the magic with a spectacular two-day extravaganza at Bla Bla Dubai. Get ready to groove to the timeless tunes of ABC, Bananarama, Chesney Hawkes, Heather Small and The Real Thing. But hold on tight because Rewind DXB 2024 will reveal even more phenomenal acts in the weeks leading up to the event. Tickets from AED 399.
GO: Visit www.ticketmasterdxb.ae for tickets and more information.
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