Dubai Comedy Festival returns from 9 to 18 October.
The first wave of artists has been revealed.
Ticket sales will begin on 14 July.
Partner Content: Dubai Comedy Festival returns from 9 to 18 October 2026 with a first wave of comedy stars announced.
Dubai is gearing up for a city-wide celebration of comedy as the Dubai Comedy Festival returns from 9 to 18 October 2026. Presented by Brag, with FACT Magazine as an official media partner, this year’s festival will bring together an exciting mix of internationally acclaimed comedians and rising stars for 10 days of unforgettable performances.
From blockbuster shows at Coca-Cola Arena to intimate performances at Dubai Opera, audiences can expect everything from razor-sharp stand-up to fresh new voices, making it one of the city’s most anticipated entertainment events of the year.
Here’s the first wave of comedians confirmed for the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026.
Mo Gilligan: 12 October
Mo Gilligan will be taking over Dubai Opera as part of this year’s Dubai Comedy Festival. Expect quick wit, sharp observations, and a high-energy performance that has turned him into one of the world’s biggest comedic exports. This will not be his first stint in Dubai as the comedian last performed at the same venue as part of the Dubai Comedy Festival in 2024.
Shane Todd: 16 October
Comedian Shane Todd will be making his way from Northern Ireland to Dubai for the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. Taking the stage at New Covent Garden Theatre, audiences can expect his trademark mix of witty observations, hilarious personal stories and energetic delivery. Shane Todd is no stranger to Dubai, having previously performed a sold-out show at the QE2 Theatre. Now, he returns to the city to bring another unforgettable night of comedy to fans.
Zarna Garg: 16 October
Zarna Garg returns to the Dubai Comedy Festival with her brand-new show, Million Dollar Excuses at Dubai Opera. One of the sharpest voices in comedy today, the Indian immigrant mother and comedian brings her signature fearless storytelling, incisive social observations, and razor-sharp wit to a night of laughs about family, culture, and the beautiful chaos of modern life. Celebrated for her distinctive comedic style, including her Amazon Prime special One in a Billion, Zarna also hosts the popular The Zarna Garg Family Show podcast.
Vir Das: 18 October
Indian comedian Vir Das is making a highly anticipated return to Dubai as part of the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. Taking the stage at Coca-Cola Arena, he is set to deliver his signature blend of sharp wit, clever storytelling and global observations. Known for his charismatic stage presence and thought-provoking humour, Vir Das promises an evening of big laughs, fresh perspectives and the unique comedic style that has made him one of India’s most celebrated stand-up acts.
Tickets for the above acts go on sale from 14 July, so be sure to secure yours early before they’re gone. With some of comedy’s biggest names heading to Dubai, these shows are expected to be among the festival’s most in-demand performances.
When: 9 to 18 October
Contact: https://www.dubaicomedyfest.ae/