Whether you’re a K-popper or a teenybopper, here are the best concerts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi this year.
Live entertainment is well and truly back in the UAE with a slew of artists taking to stages across Abu Dhabi and Dubai. So, if you’re a lover of live concerts these are the all-important dates for your diaries. Curtain up – here are the best concerts in the UAE.
Thirty Seconds to Mars: 12 December 2024
The countdown is on. The American rock band Thirty Seconds to Mars have announced that they will be performing at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. Thirty Seconds to Mars was formed in Los Angeles, California, and includes the brothers Jared and Shannon Leto. Jared is better known for his acting credentials, as he has starred in films including American Psycho and House of Gucci. Thirty Seconds to Mars is famous for its alternative rock sound. The songs include A Beautiful Lie, Closer to the Edge and The Kill. The band have sold more than 15 million albums, and toured the world and headlined festivals. Tickets start from AED 295.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for more information.
Sole DXB: 13 to 15 December 2024
Taking place from 13 to 15 December, Sole DXB 2024 promises to deliver an unforgettable experience once again. This festival offers a dynamic mix of events, including live music, DJ sets, fashion shows, film screenings, talks, workshops, sports tournaments, youth clinics and much more. The lineup is yet to be unveiled, but past performers and guests have included the likes of Big Daddy Kane, Central Cee, Jorja Smith, Nas, Scottie Pippen, Stormzy, Tobe Nwigwe and Wu-Tang Clan.
GO: Visit https://sole.digital for more information.
Eternal: 14 December 2024
The British R&B group Eternal will perform at Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Stadium as part of The Irish Village Garhoud’s Back to the 90s events. Eternal hail from London, United Kingdom, and were known for their signature soul sound. The original line-up included sisters Easther and Vernie Bennett, Kelle Bryan and Louise Redknapp. The group’s hit singles include I Am Blessed, Power of a Woman and Stay. It was I Wanna Be The Only One, which scored them their first UK number one. Get ready for some nineties nostalgia when the girl group performs at The Irish Village this winter.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Ricky Martin: 14 December 2024
Dubai is turning up the volume with the announcement that Ricky Martin is bringing his “Ricky Martin Live” tour to Coca-Cola Arena. Having spearheaded the “Latin Explosion” of the late 1990s, Ricky Martin is widely recognised for introducing Latin pop to the global mainstream. With his signature high-energy performances, the Latin music icon is known for delivering hit after hit. Fans can expect a dynamic setlist packed with chart-topping favourites like “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” “She Bangs,” and “Vente Pa’ Ca,” alongside fresh tracks from his latest album. Tickets are available now. AED 299 (bronze), AED 399 (silver), AED 499 (platinum), AED 799 (diamond) and AED 999 (golden circle).
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Bryan Adams: 19 December 2024
Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams will perform at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi as part of the World Tennis League 2024. His hits such as (Everything I Do) I Do It For You, Heaven, and Summer of ’69 have become timeless anthems, and having previously performed in Dubai at the Autism Rocks Arena in 2017 and at Coca-Cola Arena in 2023, Adams’ return to the UAE promises to be a momentous occasion. Tickets are available via Platinumlist from AED 199.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Anastacia: 20 December 2024
Tennis fans, listen up—the World Tennis League is gearing up to return for its third season, taking over Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi from 19 to 22 December 2024. As for who’s taking the stage this year? Anastacia will close out a day of play from some of the world’s top tennis talent on Friday, 20 December. Anastacia Lyn Newkirk is known for her powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits like “I’m Outta Love,” “Not That Kind,” “Freak of Nature,” “Paid My Dues,” and “One Day in Your Life.” With over thirty years in the music industry, she has collaborated with top-tier talent, including Celine Dion, Elton John, Paul McCartney, and Luciano Pavarotti.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Akon: 21 December 2024
Abu Dhabi, the stars are coming out. World Tennis League has announced that the R&B superstar Akon will perform during the World Tennis League concerts at Etihad Arena. For the uninitiated, the World Tennis League combines the world’s top professional tennis players in an engaging team-driven format alongside electrifying concerts, culminating in what has been dubbed ‘The Greatest Show on Court’. Akon will headline a special R&B evening concert featuring his hit songs, including “I Wanna Love You,” “Lonely,” “Right Now (Na Na Na),” and “Smack That.”
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Sean Paul: 21 December 2024
If the tracks “Get Busy” and “Like Glue” get you on your feet, you’ll be pleased to hear that tickets are now on sale to see the Grammy-award-winning global superstar Sean Paul perform during the World Tennis League concerts in Abu Dhabi. Taking place at Etihad Arena, the dancehall and reggae maestro is sure to bring the heat when he shares the sage with R&B hitmaker Akon this December.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
French Montana: 27 December 2024
French Montana has confirmed that he is heading to Dubai once again with a performance at FIVE Palm Jumeirah’s Bohemia Beach Club. For those unversed, French Montana, originally Karim Kharbouch, is a global music sensation hailing from Morocco. He moved to the US when he was 13 and soon, burst into the music scene with his mixtapes and hit single, Choppa Choppa Down. Blending rap and hip-hop, his work soon started resonating with the audiences. His hit tracks include Unforgettable, Pop That, and No Stylist.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Black Coffee: 28 December 2024
Party people of Dubai, mark your calendars because Grammy-winning DJ Black Coffee is making his triumphant return to Dubai. For the unversed, Black Coffee is no stranger to Dubai. The South African DJ and producer is celebrated for his unique fusion of house music with soulful elements, African rhythms, organic electronics, jazz influences, and evocative vocals, earning his signature style the name “Afropolitan House.” Set against the stunning backdrop of Dubai’s skyline at sunset, attendees can expect top-tier performances, mesmerizing visuals and an electrifying atmosphere. Tickets are available now via Platinumlist from AED 195.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Robbie Williams: 28 December 2024
Let him entertain you. British superstar Robbie Williams is performing at Saadiyat Nights this December. Over his career, he has won a record 18 BRIT Awards and won Best British Male Artist four times. Plus, he holds a Guinness World Record for selling a whopping 1.6 million tickets in a day for his Close Encounters Tour. If his previous concerts are anything to go by, we’re expecting cheeky banter, high energy, and, of course, non-stop hits. His biggest songs include Feel, Millennium, Rock DJ and She’s the One. Plus, Angels, which was written in 25 minutes, and went on to become his best-selling single.
GO: Visit www.saadiyatisland.ae for more information.
DJ Snake: 30 December 2024
Get ready because DJ Snake is making his grand return to Dubai, bringing his electrifying beats to Coca-Cola Arena. DJ Snake is one of the most influential names in the EDM scene. Born William Grigahcine in France, he first burst onto the music scene in 2013 and turned heads across the globe. His breakout hit, Turn Down for What became a global phenomenon, dominating charts and dance floors everywhere. Since then, DJ Snake has been unstoppable, with anthems like Taki Taki, Get Low, Lean On, and many more.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Andrea Bocelli: 31 December 2024
Following hot on the heels of his performances at the Expo 2020 Dubai Opening Ceremony, Maraya Concert Hall in AlUla, and the Saadiyat Nights concert series, world-renowned classical artist and six-time Grammy Award nominee Andrea Bocelli will return to the UAE with a one-off concert in Abu Dhabi this December. Start 2025 in style with the world’s most beloved Tenor, who will offer an exclusive performance at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental as part of the palatial property’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. We’re hoping he performs some of his biggest hits including Because We Believe, Canto Della Terra and Time to Say Goodbye. Tickets to see Andrea Bocelli at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental including accommodations, dinner, concert, and after-party access, start at AED 13,750.
GO: Visit www.mandarinoriental.com for more information.
Dr Alban, Fedde Le Grand, Jonas Blue and Willy William: 31 December 2024
When it comes to ringing in the New Year, Dubai knows how to do it right. People from all over the globe flock to the city for its celebrations and dazzling fireworks displays, and this year will be no different. Rixos Premium Dubai JBR is pulling out all the stops with a marvellous musical lineup featuring Dr Alban, Fedde Le Grand, Jonas Blue, and Willy William. Expect fantastic food, fireworks displays and great music. General admission starts at AED 3,000 per person, and lounge packages start at AED 8,000.
GO: Visit www.nyerixos.com for more information.
Joel Corry: 31 December 2024
Prepare for an epic night at Gravity’s New Year’s Eve Beach Festival with a performance from superstar DJ Joel Corry. Located right on the beach, with views of the Dubai skyline, dance under the stars with live DJs on the decks and dazzling fireworks lighting up the sky. Soak up the sun and catch the final sunset of the year, before dancing into 2025. Tuesday, 31 December from 12pm to 3am. AED 199 (early bird), AED 299 (second release), AED 399 (on the door) and AED 999 (VIP).
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for reservations and more information.
Lionel Richie: 31 December 2024
Start 2025 off in style because the legendary British singer Lionel Richie has announced he is coming to Dubai. The hitmaker will perform on a custom-built deck under the starlit sky at The Atlantis, The Palm’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. The evening includes a 30-piece live band, a buffet with dishes ranging from lobster to caviar, live cooking stations and plenty of fireworks. Tickets for the Atlantis The Palm’s New Year’s Eve Under The Stars Gala Dinner are live now and start at AED 4500, going up to AED 20,000.
GO: Visit www.dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Mathame: 31 December 2024
Taking place on New Year’s Eve, Mathame will perform as part of the Ushuaia Dubai Harbour Experience. With EDM beats, views of the Dubai skyline and the New Year’s Eve fireworks, you’re guaranteed to have a banging start to 2025. But this isn’t just a regular New Year’s Eve concert. In fact, this show also brings Mathame’s world tour, NEO, to Dubai. NEO is an immersive experience that blends music with technology. Think music shows with lights, shadows, and colours and a humanoid monument, which is the highlight of the performance. With all these elements, the concert is designed to be an all-encompassing sensory experience.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Nicky Romero: 31 December 2024
Barasti Beach is bringing its popular New Year’s Eve bash back, promising a headlining set from DJ Nicky Romero. Kicking off at 7pm, the celebrations are expected to continue until the wee hours, so you can have a banging start to the New Year with the Dubai skyline and the JBR fireworks as your backdrop. For those unfamiliar, Nicky Romero hails from the Netherlands and is one of the top names in EDM. He got his big break in 2012 with the viral hit “Toulouse” and his collaboration with Avicii, “I Could Be the One.” He’s also produced for global superstars like Rihanna for her track “Right Now” and Britney Spears’ “It Should Be Easy.”
GO: Follow @barastibeach on Instagram for more information.
Coldplay: 9, 11, 12 and 14 January 2025
Coldplay’s record-breaking Music of the Spheres World Tour will stop at Zayed Sports City Stadium in January and be the British band’s only shows in the region. The tour began on 18 March 2022 in San José, Costa Rica, and will finish in London, United Kingdom on 31 August 2025. The tour has sold more than 10 million tickets across 164 dates, making it the highest-grossing and most-attended tour ever. Coldplay’s concerts are immersive experiences known for dazzling light shows, fireworks and LED wristbands. In addition to performing new singles feelslikeimfallinginlove and We Pray, the group will also feature iconic anthems from their extensive catalogue including Clocks, Fix You, Paradise and Viva La Vida.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for tickets and more information.
Michael Buble: 16 January 2025
Abu Dhabi is turning up the volume this season with a lineup of global music artists gearing up to grace the capital. For those unversed, Michael Buble hails from Canada and is known for his blend of pop and jazz. With hits such as Feeling Good, Home, Sway and many others, he’s wowed crowds with his soulful melodies. With a Grammy award under his belt and 75 million albums sold, his performance at Saadiyat Nights is sure to add more sparkle to the already star-studded lineup.
GO: Visit www.ticketmaster.ae for more information.
Ludovico Einaudi: 19 January 2025
Get ready to welcome Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena. While it’ll be his first time in the capital, he’s no stranger to the UAE, having sold out three shows in Dubai already. Born in Turin, Einaudi’s musical journey began under the guidance of his mother, who introduced him to the piano at a young age. His early experimentation with music eventually led him to pursue formal training in Milan, where he honed his composition skills. Einaudi’s music draws inspiration from minimalism and contemporary pop. Some of his most famous works include the likes of Experience, Nuvole Bianche, and I Giorni. Tickets for the event are on sale now, starting at just AED 250.
GO: Visit www.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Leningrad: 24 January 2025
Russian rock legends Leningrad are confirmed to perform at Saadiyat Nights, the capital’s three-month series of open-air concerts. Renowned as one of Russia’s most culturally significant bands, Leningrad features over 14 musicians, celebrated for their dynamic performances and iconic hits like Kolshchik, Bolsche Nikovo, and Nikogo Ne Zhalko. Their Abu Dhabi debut promises an unforgettable night where music meets the stars on Saadiyat Island, with its stunning backdrop and world-class open-air venue.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Metro Boomin: 24 January 2025
If you’re a fan of hip-hop, Metro Boomin will bring his signature beats to Coca-Cola Arena. For those unversed, the rapper — originally Leland Tyler Wayne — is a powerhouse in the world of music production. He started making music when he was a teen in the early 2010s, and by the time he was 19, his debut mixtape, 19 & Boomin, had already become a favourite. Since then, he’s collaborated with artists like Drake, 21 Savage and many others. Some of his hit songs and albums include Superhero, Like That, Too Many Nights, Not All Heroes Wear Capes and Savage Mode. He released two collaborative albums with fellow hip-hop heavyweight Future earlier this year: We Don’t Trust You and We Still Don’t Trust You.
GO: Visit www.coca-cola-arena.com for more information.
Boyz II Men: 25 January 2025
Abu Dhabi, we have some sweet news. The American hitmakers Boyz II Men are coming to the capital. The group are scheduled to perform at Saadiyat Nights, an open-air musical event that takes place on Saadiyat Island. Boyz II Men’s hit songs include End of The Road, It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye to Yesterday, and Motownphilly. The group have collaborated with famous faces, from Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis to Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, but it was their duet with Mariah Carey that hit the big time. One Sweet Day spent sixteen weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Over their three-decade career, they have won four Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, nine Soul Train Awards, three Billboard Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
GO: Follow @saadiyatnights on Instagram for more information.
Steve Aoki: 25 January 2025
Plenty is happening to keep you entertained this January – especially for the melomaniacs out there. Besides being a Grammy-nominated DJ, NFT visionary, and fashion designer, Steve Aoki is also known for cake-throwing acts during his shows. Anyone who has attended his live performances can vouch for just how high-impact and experiential they are – and his upcoming performance in Dubai will be no different. During an evening of revelry at Barasti, Steve Aoki will provide an adrenaline-pumping performance as he unleashes his signature brand of EDM on the Dubai shoreline. With his electrifying remixes and original tracks like Boneless and Delirious, he’s got the magic touch to ignite the crowd and turn the atmosphere into pure euphoria.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Green Day: 27 January 2025
American hitmakers Green Day are set to perform for the first time in the Middle East. The talented trio will perform in a purpose-built open-air stadium at Expo City Dubai, which can accommodate 30,000 people. The landmark show will see the group perform their old and new hits. The group has sold more than 75 million records worldwide and their hit songs include American Idiot, Boulevard of Broken Dreams and Wake Me Up When September Ends. Plus, Good Riddance (Time of Your Life), which is often played at the end of their concerts. Plus, they will be supported by the American rock group, The Offspring.
GO: Visit https://greendaydxb.com for more information.
CAS: 31 January 2025
CAS will perform at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on 31 January 2025. The upcoming concert will heavily feature tracks from the band’s upcoming album, X. The songs take inspiration from CAS frontman, Greg Gonzalez’s personal life — taking listeners back to the 70s and the 80s. Formed in 2008, CAS is led by Greg Gonzalez, along with Jacob Tomsky and Randall Miller. With music that dives deep into the intricacies of relationships and emotions, the band shot to fame in 2015 with Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby. Other hits include Apocalypse and Sunsetz. Tickets start at AED 195.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for more information.
Tom Meighan: 1 February 2025
Kasabian’s former frontman, Tom Meighan, is heading to Dubai. The singer is bringing his RAW25 Acoustic Tour to the city. The show takes place on 1 February 2025 at the P7 Arena, Media One Hotel, and tickets are available now. The RAW25 Acoustic Tour is a rare chance to see Tom, and he will perform for one night only. The singer will strip back his hits, and perform with acoustic guitars and a stomp-box. The show has already received positive reviews, and he has been praised for its authenticity. During the RAW25 Acoustic Tour, guests can enjoy Kasabian classics. The group’s hit songs include Club Foot, Fire, LSF and Underdog.
GO: Visit platinumlist.net for more information.
The Corrs: 6 February 2024
Get ready to be left breathless. The Irish hitmakers, The Corrs, are making their way to Dubai. The Corrs are famous for their mix of celtic, folk and pop rock. In 1995, they released their debut album Forgiven, Not Forgotten. The singles included Runaway and The Right Time. In 1997, they released the album Talk On Corners, which achieved worldwide success and made them pop rock stars. Produced by Glenn Ballad, it included the singles Dreams, So Young and What Can I Do?
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.
Nick Carter: 8 February 2025
Nick Carter, one-fifth of the Backstreet Boys and a celebrated artist, is heading to Dubai this February. As part of his Who Am I tour, Carter will perform at Bla Bla Dubai’s The Tent, serenading fans with his popular hits. This concert gives fans a rare chance to see Carter take the stage solo in an intimate venue. Tickets go on sale at 10am on 13 December 13.
GO: Visit www.ticketmaster.ae for reservations and more information.
Christina Aguilera: 15 February 2025
Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi is hitting the high notes with the announcement that American superstar Christina Aguilera is coming to Saadiyat Nights. Christina hails from New York, United States. In 1999, she released her debut single, Genie in a Bottle, which became a worldwide smash hit. She was part of the wave of teen idols. Her hit singles include Ain’t No Other Man, Beautiful, Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You), Lady Marmalade, and What A Girl Wants. Christina has also crossed over to films. She starred in the movie Burlesque alongside Cher. Tickets to see Christina Aguilera in Abu Dhabi start from AED 250.
GO: Visit https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information.
REWIND Festival: 22 February 2025
REWIND is returning to Dubai for its third year with a lineup packed full of your favourite 80s icons. The 2025 edition is set to take place at Bla Bla Dubai and will showcase a stellar lineup, headlined by the legendary Tony Hadley. The festival will be a vibrant affair filled with top-notch entertainment, including fantastic food, numerous bars, and live performances from Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, Midge Ure, Tunde (voice of the Lighthouse Family), The Christians, Katrina, Toyah, Tiffany and Disco Inferno.
GO: Visit www.rewindfestdxb.com for reservations and more information.
Sting: 3 April 2025
The legendary British singer, Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner – aka Sting is returning to the UAE capital. Following his shows at Saadiyat Nights and Atlantis, The Palm’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, he’ll now perform at Etihad Arena. Prepare yourself for a musical rollercoaster as he belts out timeless classics like Every Breath You Take and Fields of Gold, weaving in new hits that promise to captivate. Expect the blend of rock, pop, and soul that has made him a living legend. Joined by guitarist and longtime collaborator Dominic Miller, along with drummer Chris Maas (Mumford & Sons, Maggie Rogers), the show forms part of the “STING 3.0” World Tour. The setlist will feature a mix of hits and rarities from Sting’s timeless discography.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for tickets and more information.
Ed Sheeran: 26 April 2025
Abu Dhabi, we have some major music news. British superstar Ed Sheeran will be headlining the Off Limits festival which brings together more than 20 artists across two stages. The festival covers multiple musical genres including electronic, hip-hop and pop. The full line-up has not yet been unveiled, and will be announced in the lead up to the event. Ed’s hit songs include Castle on the Hill, I Don’t Care, Perfect, Shape of You and Thinking Out Loud.
GO: Follow @offlimitsmusicfestival on Instagram for more information.
Guns N’ Roses: 27 May 2025
Get ready to rock because Guns N’ Roses has announced that they bring their 2025 world tour to Abu Dhabi. With nearly four decades of global stadium-shaking performances, Guns N’ Roses continues to redefine rock and roll. The band currently comprises of lead vocalist Axl Rose, lead guitarist Slash, bassist Duff McKagan, keyboardist Dizzy Reed, rhythm guitarist Richard Fortus, drummer Frank Ferrer and keyboardist Melissa Reese. After a sold-out performance in Abu Dhabi in 2023, Guns N’ Roses are back to thrill the UAE with their greatest hits, including iconic tracks like Sweet Child O’ Mine, Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door, November Rain and Welcome to the Jungle.
GO: Visit www.livenation.me for tickets and more information.
