These are the Broadway and West End shows to book now.
The UAE’s theatre scene is flourishing. It began with the arrival of Hamilton at Etihad Arena, and now culture vultures across the country can’t get enough of musicals, performances and productions. From Broadway breakouts like Mary Poppins to West End sensations like Cats The Musical, these are the top UAE theatre shows to see this year.
Riverdance: 31 October & 1 November 2026
Taking over Etihad Arena on 31 October and 1 November 2026, Riverdance brings one of the most recognisable stage productions of the past three decades to the UAE for the very first time. The two-night run presented by Live Nation Middle East and FACT Magazine arrives as part of its 30th Anniversary Tour. Since its breakthrough performance at the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, Riverdance has evolved from an interval sensation into a full-scale phenomenon, blending Irish dance with global influences and an electric live score. For the anniversary run, Riverdance Abu Dhabi audiences can also look forward to updated choreography, new costumes, and enhanced production value.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: 1 October and 1 November 2026
Contact: www.livenation.me
Chicago The Musical: 16 to 20 December 2026
Chicago The Musical is coming to Coca-Cola Arena from 16 to 20 December 2026, bringing jazz, crime and Broadway glamour to Dubai. Set in 1920s Chicago, the award-winning musical follows Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two women accused of murder who compete for fame, public sympathy and the spotlight. Audiences can look forward to iconic numbers including All That Jazz, Cell Block Tango, Razzle Dazzle and Mister Cellophane. Known for its sharp satire and Fosse-inspired choreography, the show remains one of Broadway’s most enduring productions. Tickets are not yet on sale.
Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Al Satwa, Dubai
When: 16 to 20 December 2026
Contact: coca-cola-arena.com
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: 14 to 23 May 2027
Roald Dahl’s scrumdiddlyumptious world is heading to the UAE capital as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory makes its Abu Dhabi debut at Etihad Arena. Based on Dahl’s globally adored novel, the story follows young Charlie Bucket after he wins a coveted golden ticket to step inside Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. Expect a high-energy production filled with immersive visuals, mischievous Oompa-Loompas, eye-catching stagecraft, and a score that blends nostalgia with new musical magic. Iconic songs from the classic 1971 film, including “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” feature alongside original music by Grammy and Tony Award winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray, Mary Poppins Returns).
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: 14 to 23 May 2027
Contact: http://platinumlist.net
Cats The Musical: 4 to 13 June 2027
Cats The Musical will debut in Abu Dhabi at Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Arguably, one of the biggest shows in theatre history, Cats will feature the magical score composed by the iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber, paired with a magnificent set, beautifully designed costumes and electric choreography. Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the original London production opened in 1981 at the New London Theatre, before transferring to Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre in 1982. Since its world premiere, CATS has travelled to over 30 countries, been translated into 15 languages, and has been seen by more than 73 million people worldwide.
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
When: 4 to 13 June 2027
Contact: http://platinumlist.net