As a country home to more than 200 nationalities, it’s no surprise that the UAE is often regarded as a must-perform destination for some of the world’s biggest musicians. This year is shaping up to be no different with a long list of highly-anticipated concerts already headlining various venues across the emirates. From Arab pop to English rock, read on below to see which internationally-renowned performers are making the UAE their stomping grounds as early as this month.
Mohammed Assaf, January 10
After emerging victorious from season two of Arab Idol, the Palestinian pop sensation quickly rose to fame with his self-titled album Assaf and, more recent release, Ma Wahshnak. Now equipped with an MTV Europe Music Award for Best Middle East Act and a performance at the FIFA World Cup under his belt, the “nightingale of Palestine” is heading to Al Majaz Amphitheater in Sharjah to sing his way into the hearts of UAE residents once again.
Lewis Capaldi, January 17
Famous for selling out his UK arena tour in just 10 minutes before his first album was even publicly released, this Scottish singer-songwriter is stopping in Sharjah during his debut world tour of Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent, the first number one album of 2020. The UK’s best-selling artist of 2019 garnered worldwide recognition for his emotional series of lovesick hits including “Someone You Loved” and “Bruises”, which you can be sure Capaldi will croon to his Middle Eastern fans. Just don’t forget a tissue box (or two).
Robbie Williams, January 24
A veteran of the music industry for more than two decades and former Take That band member, British rockstar Robbie Williams is journeying to The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah to perform his beloved worldwide hits solo for the first time since 2015. Fresh off the release of his recent festive album, Williams promises a mix of old and new music, giving both longtime and recent fans a chance to sing along with the 18-Brit Awards titleholder. Make sure to stick around for the post-show fireworks display.
Prateek Kuhad, January 24
This Indian newcomer reached unfathomable heights in the last week after former US President Barack Obama added Kuhad’s single ‘cold/mess’ to his “Favorite Music of 2019” playlist, catapulting the Indie musician into the brightest of spotlights before his fast-approaching stint at The Rotunda in Dubai. Expect vibes more similar to John Mayer than Arijit Singh, explained Kuhad in a previous interview, but uniquely Kuhad vibes nonetheless.
Amr Diab, January 24
No stranger to record-breaking accolades and sold-out UAE concerts, this Egyptian mega-artist needs no introduction. From romantic ballads to catchy dance-floor beats, the chart-topping tracks of Diab’s self-created genre of “Mediterranean music” will soon echo throughout the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre for a foot-tapping evening.
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