Partner Content: The capital’s first comedy festival takes place at Etihad Arena.

Abu Dhabi, it’s time to have a laugh. The capital is welcoming the new comedy festival, Abu Dhabi Comedy Week. The star-studded line-up includes Aziz Ansari and Tom Segura, with more acts to be announced soon. Running from 18 to 26 May, the event takes place at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.

American comedian Aziz Ansari will perform for the first time in the capital. 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. His latest special, “Nightclub Comedian,” filmed at The Comedy Cellar in New York in December 2021, is currently available for streaming on Netflix.

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.

Abu Dhabi Comedy Week

James Craven, President of Live Nation Middle East, explained: “We are thrilled to be a part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Week, the capital’s new annual celebration of joy and laughter, underscoring our commitment to presenting premier entertainment offerings to the vibrant community of Abu Dhabi. Having already established ourselves on the comedy circuit, hosting the biggest comedy show seen in the UAE last year, this is another incredible step in our live entertainment journey.”

Tickets to Abu Dhabi Comedy Week are available from 28 February.

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