Upcoming UAE comedy shows: From Aziz Ansari to Bassem Youssef

Brace yourselves for some side-splitting comedy.

Get ready for unforgettable nights of laughter with a slew of comedians taking to stages across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. If you’re a lover of live comedy, these are the all-important dates for your diaries. Curtain up – here is a list of all the upcoming UAE comedy shows.

Mo Gilligan: 19 April 2024

This British stand-up comedian’s journey to global success began in 2017, fueled by years of sharing comedy clips on social media as a hobby. He later co-hosted the chat show “The Big Narstie Show,” which debuted in 2018. With a unique approach to British culture, Mo Gilligan seamlessly weaves through various comedic genres, including grime comedy, physical comedy, and musical comedy. Anticipate a performance that promises a multifaceted range of humour on the stage. He will perform at Dubai Opera Main Hall on 19 April as part of the Dubai Comedy Festival.

GO: Visit www.dubaicomedyfest.ae for tickets and more information.

Anubhav Singh Bassi: 20 April 2024

The renowned Indian actor and YouTuber, is gearing up to grace the stage at Dubai Opera with his latest show, ‘Kisi Ko Batana Mat’ (Don’t Tell Anyone). Launching his stand-up comedy career with a memorable open mic performance in 2017, Bassi has since skyrocketed to fame as a YouTube sensation, amassing over 200 million views globally. Beyond his online triumphs, Bassi delivered a monologue for Amazon Funnies and made a notable cameo in ZEE5’s Comedy Couple (2020): You can see Anubhav live at Dubai Opera Main Hall on 20 April as part of the Dubai Comedy Festival.

GO: Visit www.dubaicomedyfest.ae for tickets and more information.

Aurie Styla: 11 May 2024

Aurie Styla is bringing his The Aurator tour to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Dubai. He hails from London, England, and has appeared on Comedy Central Live, Deep Fake Neighbor Wars, Jonathon Ross’ Comedy Club and The Stand-Up Sketch Show. During his show, he will tackle his experience of trying to understand the world. Styla is known for his charisma and ability to connect with audiences, selling over 18,000 tickets to his self-produced comedy tours alone. But his talents extend beyond stand-up. Styla’s comedic prowess shines in his hit podcast, “Respectfully…” where he tackles current events, pop culture, and even gaming, all with his signature humour and open-minded approach. Tickets start from AED 125 and are available from Platinumlist.

Aziz Ansari: 18 May 2024

American comedian Aziz Ansari will perform for the first time in the capital as part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. The acclaimed actor, director, writer, and comedian, best known for portraying Tom Haverford on the television show “Parks and Recreation,” is set to showcase his comedy skills at Etihad Arena on Saturday, 18 May. Beginning his career in New York City in 2000 as a college student, Aziz has steadily evolved, earning two Emmys for Outstanding Comedy Writing and receiving both Emmy and DGA Award nominations for his Netflix series “Master of None”. He has appeared in several films such as “Get Him to the Greek,” “I Love You, Man,” and “30 Minutes or Less.” When he faced allegations of misconduct during the #MeToo movement, he used them as inspiration for this show, Aziz Ansari: Right Now. The show takes place at Etihad Arena.

GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.

Kevin Bridges and Tommy Tiernan: 19 May 2024

Abu Dhabi is about to get a whole lot funnier with the arrival of the first-ever Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. Offering a blend of British and Irish humour, Tiernan and Bridges will make sure you laugh at Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. Tiernan is an Irish comedian, known for his knack of taking audiences on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. His last performance in the UAE back in 2015 left audiences in stitches, and now he’s back to spread more joy. Hailing from Scotland, Kevin Bridges is a comedic force to be reckoned with. Having started his stand-up career at a young age, Bridges has risen through the ranks to become one of the UK’s top comedians. Fresh off the success of his sold-out show in Abu Dhabi last year, he’s back with a brand new script guaranteed to have you rolling in laughter.

Bad Friends: 21 May 2024

If you’re a fan of Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee’s podcast, you know what to expect. The duo promises a rollercoaster ride of laughter, outrageous humour, and unfiltered banter at Etihad Arena on 21 May. This Bad Friends Live Show offers an evening of unpredictable antics and behind-the-scenes stories from the lives and careers of the comics. But beware, because no topic is off limits. Andrew Santino, known for his roles in I’m Dying Up Here and Dave, brings his sharp wit and comedic prowess to the stage. He also hosts his own solo podcast “Whiskey Ginger” On the other hand, Bobby Lee is a comedian who rose to prominence on the sketch comedy show “MADtv” with his portrayals of celebrities like Bruno and Connie Chung. He’s also appeared in films like “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” and “Pineapple Express” and the television series “Just Like That.”

Andrew Schulz: 22 May 2024

Known for his unfiltered humour and fearless exploration of taboo topics, Andrew Schulz is a force to be reckoned with in the comedy world. From selling out Radio City Music Hall to his wildly popular Netflix special Schulz Saves America, he’s proven time and again that he’s a comedic powerhouse. Plus, his show in the capital back in October 2023 proves that he’s got tons of fans in the region. And now, he’ll be taking up the stage at Etihad Arena once again, on 22 May.

GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.

Dave Chappelle: 23 May 2024

Abu Dhabi, it’s time to have a laugh. The American comedian Dave Chappelle has joined the Abu Dhabi Comedy Week line-up. Dave hails from Washington DC, United States. He grew up in Maryland, and was inspired by the comedians Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor. He created and starred in the satirical show, Chappelle’s Show. Over his career, he has won six Emmy Awards and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humour. On Netflix, viewers can catch his comedy specials Dave Chappelle: Sticks & Stones, The Closer and The Dreamer. Plus, 8:46 was released after the murder of George Floyd, and explores violence against African Americans. 

GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information. 

Bassem Youssef and Maz Jobrani: 24 May 2024

Bassem Youssef and Maz Jobrani are headlining together at Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. Egyptian Baseem is a surgeon turned comedian, and is famous for his political and satirical jokes. He went viral when he appeared on Piers Morgan Uncensored, and the clip now has more than 22 million views. American comedian Maz was previously part of the Axis of Evil comedy group. Not only has the Iranian-American comic made appearances in television’s most popular shows, but he’s also an LA Times best-selling author. Plus, he previously performed at the White House. 

GO: Visit https://www.livenation.me for tickets and more information. 

Chris Tucker: 25 May 2024

Chris Tucker is known for his roles in the Rush Hour movie series and his impeccable comedic timing. From his early days on Def Comedy Jam to his stellar performances in blockbuster hits like Friday and The Fifth Element, Tucker’s journey to stardom has been nothing short of legendary. Taking the late show spot on 25 May at the Etihad Arena, he’s going to leave the audience in splits with his boundless energy and sharp wit.

GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.

Tom Segura: 25 May 2024

Tom Segura, a celebrated figure in the world of comedy, is set to dazzle the audience at Etihad Arena on Saturday, 25 May. Renowned for his critically acclaimed Netflix specials, including “Ball Hog” (2020), “Disgraceful” (2018), “Mostly Stories” (2016), and “Completely Normal” (2014), Tom’s comedic brilliance has firmly established him as a leading force in comedy. In July 2022, he ventured into the literary world, releasing his New York Times Bestselling book, “I’d Like To Play Alone, Please,” which earned high praise from Forbes for its “laugh out loud funny” content. Tom’s exceptional storytelling skills and sharp wit have captivated millions of podcast listeners through popular shows like “Your Mom’s House” and “2 Bears 1 Cave.” Having recently completed his “I’m Coming Everywhere” world tour, which included over 300 shows, Tom’s performance in the capital is bound to have you in stitches.

Jo Koy: 26 May 2024

We have some news that is going to put a smile on your face. Filipino-American comedian Jo Koy is bringing his world tour to Abu Dhabi. Jo Koy hails from Washington, United States. He dropped out of university to pursue stand-up comedy. He started performing in coffee houses in Las Vegas and landed a regular night at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino. He has appeared on shows ranging from Chelsea Lately to The Adam Coralla Show. Plus, he has created Netflix specials including Jo Koy: Comin in Hot and Jo Koy: Live from Seattle. Jo Koy is currently on a world tour, which is coming to cities including Antwerp, Brisbane, London, Oslo, San Diego and Singapore. He will only be visiting Abu Dhabi in the Middle East. We’re hoping he brings his signature satirical humour to the UAE capital. He is known for his jokes about families and the Filipino diaspora.

GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.

Russell Kane: 2 June 2024

British comedian Russell Kane will be jetting back into Dubai for a headline show. The brand-new tour will see Russell bring his high-energy, high-octane, and hyper-active style back to the QE2, a venue he sold out last January. “Dubai, I am coming BACK! Grab your tickets NOW!’” he said. Russell Kane’s accolades include a Best Show win at the 2010 Edinburgh Comedy Awards. He made history by becoming the first comedian to clinch both the Edinburgh Comedy Award and the Melbourne Comedy Festival’s Barry Award in the same year. Kane is no stranger to the UAE, having performed to sold-out crowds in Dubai in 2017, 2021 and 2023. He is known for his dynamic style and topical commentary, so prepare for an evening of comedic rants, known as Kaneings.

GO: Visit www.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.

Romesh Ranganathan: 25 October 2024

The British comedian Romesh Ranganathan will be headlining Coca-Cola Arena. The show takes place on 25 October, and marks his debut in Dubai.  Romesh had a sell-out tour in 2022, and is now bringing his new show The Hustle to Dubai. The show explores the human condition, and asks the big questions. Are humans inherently good? Is charity positive? And what are the keys to success? Romesh is of Sri Lankan heritage and was born in Crawley, West Sussex. He was originally a mathematics teacher, and went onto become a performer. He previously performed as a freestyle rapper, and was called Ranga. He then switched from rapping to telling jokes. 

GO: Visit www.romeshranganathan.co.uk for more information.

Matt Rife: 27 October 2024

Matt Rife is bringing his ProbleMATTic World Tour to the capital, guaranteeing an evening of laughter and surprises on 27 October. From clever wordplay to hilarious interactions with the audience, no topic is off-limits for this comedic genius. Am American comic and actor who hails from a small town near Columbus, Ohio, Rife’s journey to comedy stardom is as relatable as it is inspiring. His self-produced comedy specials, including Only Fans and Matthew Steven Rife, have garnered millions of views on YouTube, while his Netflix special, Matt Rife: Natural Selection, has received critical acclaim and topped charts around the world. Beyond stand-up, Rife has made a name for himself on television, with appearances on MTV’s TRL and Wild’ N Out.

GO: Visit www.etihadarena.ae for more information.

Jake Lambert: 9 November 2024

Jake Lambert is bringing his The Sunshine Kid to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Dubai on 9 November. The tour examines how he tries to navigate through everyday life, and his fears of being normal. He has previously supported Michael McIntyre on tour, and notched up more than 150 million views online. He has also appeared on shows including 8 Out of 10 Cats, The Great British Bake Off and Michael McIntyre’s Big Show. Plus, he has a weekly podcast called Make It Better, which shows him and Jeremy Flynn picking a different topic and discussing how they would make it better. Tickets start from AED 150 and are available from Platinumlist.