A roundup of live events for music lovers.
The UAE is gearing up for a spectacular lineup of concerts and music festivals throughout the year, offering something for every musical taste. From the sands of Dubai to the shores of Abu Dhabi, the country is proving it knows how to host unforgettable music festivals with a unique flair.
Whether you’re into Chinese pop, house music, or rock, there’s a festival for you in the UAE this year. So grab your calendar and start marking down these must-attend events, and don’t forget to save the date for the return of a major festival already announced for 2025.
August 24th-25th:
Because Of You Chinese Music Festival Dubai is set to host some of the biggest stars from the Chinese music scene next month at the Coca-Cola Arena. The Because Of You – Chinese Music Festival will feature top C-pop artists performing over two nights, bringing a taste of China’s vibrant music culture to the UAE.
Tickets from AED 380. Coca-Cola Arena, Citywalk. PlatinumList.net
November 2nd:
MIXTAPE Festival Get ready for a nostalgic trip back to the 90s and early 2000s at Bla Bla Dubai’s MIXTAPE Festival. Featuring full sets from iconic pop stars like S Club, Mel C, Peter Andre, and Gareth Gates, this one-day event is a must for millennials looking to relive the golden age of pop.
Tickets from AED 245. Sat Nov 2nd. Bla Bla Dubai, JBR. livenation.me
November 9th-10th:
Defected Festival House music lovers, this one’s for you. The Defected Festival returns to Dubai for a sun-soaked beach and pool party at JA Resorts’ Soul Beach in Jebel Ali. While the lineup is still under wraps, you can expect a weekend of non-stop beats and good vibes at what promises to be one of November’s hottest events.
Tickets from AED 250. Sat Nov 9th – Sun Nov 10th. Soul Beach, Jebel Ali. defecteddubai.com or platinumlist.net.
November 23rd:
From The Oyster Comes The Pearl Festival Rock fans, get ready for a night to remember. Four legendary bands—The Mission, The Chameleons, Claytown Troupe, and IST IST—will take the stage at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium for a festival that’s sure to be a highlight of the year for rock enthusiasts.
Tickets from AED 199. Sat Nov 23rd, 5pm-11.45pm. Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, Garhoud. platinumlist.net
November 23rd:
Wireless Festival Middle East After a delay, the Wireless Festival Middle East is finally happening this November at Etihad Park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. With a star-studded lineup that includes SZA, 21 Savage, and Yeat, this festival is set to be a major draw for music fans across the region.
Tickets from AED 295 per person. Sat Nov 23rd. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, wirelessfestival.me
2025
February 22nd:
REWIND FEST DXB Prepare to catch disco fever as REWIND FEST DXB makes its return to Dubai in 2025. This one-night-only event will feature 80s icons like Tony Hadley, Midge Ure, and Tom Bailey of The Thompson Twins, along with other classic acts. It’s the ultimate throwback experience you won’t want to miss.
Tickets from AED 395. Sat Feb 22nd, noon-late. Bla Bla, Jumeirah Beach Residence. rewindfestdxb.com (04 584 4111).
UNTOLD Dubai
The first UNTOLD Dubai festival in 2024 was a massive success, drawing over 185,000 attendees. And the excitement doesn’t stop there—UNTOLD Dubai has already confirmed its return in 2025. While details about the venue, artists, and tickets are still under wraps, anticipation is already building for what promises to be another epic event.
