MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi has set the stage for a jam-packed season of concerts and theatre productions in 2026, underscoring the city's growing reputation as a hub for international culture and entertainment.
From global pop stars to classical virtuosos, there's something for lovers of all live music.
Mary Poppins runs from March 25 to April 15 at Etihad Arena, bringing the beloved musical to life with magical storytelling, timeless songs, and dazzling choreography for families and theatre enthusiasts.
Pop superstar Shakira will be performing at Etihad Park on April 4, headlining the OFFLIMITS Music Festival, promising fans an electrifying night of chart-topping hits and signature dance moves. The line-up also features the Jonas Brothers, NE-YO, Biffy Clyro, Myles Smith, KALEO, Scouting for Girls, Toploader, Bayou, YaraMustafa and YAZ.
Jon Batiste takes the stage at Emirates Palace Auditorium on April 12, delivering a live performance that combines jazz, R&B, and pop. The Grammy-winning musician and bandleader is renowned for his work on "The Late Show" with Stephen Colbert and the score for Pixar's "Soul".
Tunisian oud player and vocalist Dhafer Youssef will perform at NYU Abu Dhabi's Red Theater on April 14. Known for blending traditional Sufi music with jazz and contemporary influences, Youssef delivers performances that are both deeply spiritual and improvisational.
Turkish pop icon Tarkan will make his UAE debut at Etihad Arena on April 17. With a career spanning over three decades, Tarkan is known for hits like "Şımarık" and continues to be one of Türkiye's most influential artists.
The American Ballet Theatre will bring a programme of classical and contemporary works to Emirates Palace Auditorium on April 17. As one of the world's leading ballet companies, ABT offers audiences a rare opportunity to witness technically precise and artistically expressive performances.
Hyperound K-Fest will take place at Etihad Arena on April 18, featuring top K-pop acts and large-scale stage productions. The festival offers fans in the UAE an immersive experience of South Korea's vibrant pop music scene.
Acclaimed pianist Minsoo Sohn will perform a solo recital at NYU Abu Dhabi's Red Theater on April 19. Sohn, a prizewinner at international competitions, will present a programme including works by Beethoven and Chopin, showcasing both technical mastery and emotional depth.
On April 22, Violinist Lisa Batiashvili joins pianist Giorgi Gigashvili at NYU Abu Dhabi's Red Theater. Batiashvili is known for her passionate, expressive playing, and Gigashvili is an accomplished pianist and collaborator. Together they explore a program of violin and piano works that promises both technical brilliance and emotional depth.
Christina Aguilera will perform at Etihad Arena on April 24. The multiple Grammy Award winner has sold over 90 million records worldwide and is expected to perform a setlist spanning her illustrious two-decade career.
Soprano Sondra Radvanovsky and pianist Vincenzo Scalera will present a recital at NYU Abu Dhabi's Red Theater on April 25 as part of the Abu Dhabi Festival programme. The performance will feature operatic arias and art songs from the Italian and Romantic repertoire.
Algarabía will come to Emirates Palace Auditorium on April 26, bringing a multidisciplinary production that combines flamenco, Arabic poetry, music and dance. The performance forms part of the festival's cross-cultural programming.
Croatian cellist Hauser will play the Etihad Arena on May 2. The musician, formerly one half of 2Cellos, will present a solo programme that spans classical works and contemporary arrangements.
Canadian stand-up comic Russell Peters will bring his latest tour to Etihad Arena on October 25, continuing a long-running international career built on observational comedy and global touring.
Lewis Capaldi and Zara Larsson are confirmed for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after-race concert series on December 3 at Etihad Park, which traditionally features international music acts alongside the race weekend programme.