Vir Das, Shane Todd and Mo Gilligan are just some of the names confirmed for this year’s Dubai Comedy Festival.
It was only weeks ago that FACT reported on the return of the annual Dubai Comedy Festival from 9 to 18 October — and here we are, revealing its headliners. While more names are expected in the weeks ahead, here’s what we know of the star-studded line-up so far.
The 2026 edition of the Dubai Comedy Festival will unfold across multiple venues in the city, including Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai Opera and New Covent Garden.
Mohandis Al Thauq Al Aam: 9 and 10 October
Mohandis Al Thauq Al Aam (The Engineer of Public Taste) is set to bring its acclaimed Kuwaiti comedy to the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. A hilarious theatrical production filled with wit, relatable moments, and entertaining twists, the play follows a couple navigating the chaotic highs and lows of expecting their first child.
When: 9 and 10 October
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Jamie Lever: 10 October
Fans of comedy and entertainment won’t want to miss Jamie Lever’s appearance at the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. A talented comedian, actress, and performer, Jamie Lever has carved her own identity in the Indian entertainment industry with her energetic stage presence, impressions, and character-driven humour. The daughter of legendary comedian Johnny Lever, Jamie Lever began her comedy journey with live performances before becoming a familiar face through television, films, and viral comedy sketches.
When: 10 October
Where: Emirates Theatre, Jumeirah, Dubai
Munawar Faruqui: 11 October
One of India’s most recognised stand-up comedians, Munawar Faruqui is set to bring his distinctive storytelling and sharp observational humour to the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. Known for his fearless approach to comedy, he has built a massive following through his relatable narratives, satire, and witty commentary on everyday experiences. Beyond stand-up, he is also a rapper, writer, and performer, with his popularity reaching new heights through major entertainment platforms and reality television appearances.
When: 11 October
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
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.
When: 12 October
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Alexander Mercul: 15 October
Alexander Mercul is bringing his distinctive brand of stand-up comedy to the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. A Russian comedian known for his unique style and engaging storytelling, Alexander Mercul has developed a reputation for creating performances that combine sharp observations with personal humour. With a style that connects with audiences through relatable experiences and thoughtful punchlines, Alexander Mercul promises a memorable comedy showcase for fans looking to discover fresh international talent on the Dubai stage.
When: 15 October
Where: New Covent Garden, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
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.
When: 16 October
Where: New Covent Garden, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
John Achkar: 17 October
Lebanese stand-up comedian John Achkar is set to entertain audiences at Dubai Comedy Festival 2026 with his signature Arabic-language comedy and relatable storytelling. Known for exploring themes such as Arab culture, identity, relationships, marriage, and everyday life, John Achkar has built a strong international following with performances across the world.
When: 17 October
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
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.
When: 18 October
Where: Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Amit Tandon: 18 October
Amit Tandon is set to bring his clean, relatable, and observational comedy to the Dubai Comedy Festival 2026. One of India’s leading stand-up comedians, Amit Tandon is celebrated for his hilarious takes on marriage, parenting, family life, and everyday situations that audiences around the world can relate to. His effortless storytelling and sharp observations promise an evening of laughter for audiences in Dubai.
When: 18 October
Where: Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Contact: www.dubaicomedyfest.ae