The first month of the New Year has a host of things to offer! Whether you're an art-lover, a music-lover or are looking to explore new things in the UAE, this round up will come handy. Connector brings you some of the must-attend events this month. Read on and plan ahead!
Birds of Mind
Where: Be Beach, Dubai
When: 1 January
Kick off the New Year with an energetic day-to-night beach party at Be Beach in Dubai. Birds of Mind brings seaside vibes with upbeat music, and chilled beachfront ambiance perfect for ringing in 2026. Expect a lively crowd, summer beach tunes, and curated DJ sets to set the mood after the fireworks. Bring your friends and soak up the ocean breeze, bask in the festive atmosphere, and make unforgettable memories right at the start of the year.
www.bebeachdxb.com
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Leonid Agutin Live
Where: Dubai Opera
When: 2 January
Experience a special performance by Russian singer-songwriter Leonid Agutin at the prestigious Dubai Opera. Known for his rich musical compositions blending jazz, pop, and world sounds, Agutin’s concert promises an elegant night of soulful music and engaging performance. Dubai Opera’s stunning architecture and world-class acoustics elevate the experience, making this an unmissable evening for music lovers. Whether you’re a longtime fan or curious about contemporary Russian music, this show delivers artistry, emotion, and cultural flair in one of Dubai’s premier cultural venues. Tickets start from Dhs 600.
www.dubaiopera.com
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Andrea Oliva Live
Where: Be Beach
When: 2 January
Electronic music fans can enjoy an exciting night as renowned DJ Andrea Oliva takes over Be Beach in Dubai. With his deep, dynamic house beats and infectious energy, Oliva delivers a performance designed to keep the dance floor moving under the stars. This beachfront party invites you to dance barefoot in the sand, sip cocktails by the sea, and experience the vibe of Dubai’s outdoor nightlife scene. Perfect for fans of house and techno, the event promises world-class mixing and an unforgettable start to the year.
www.bebeachdxb.com
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Bollywood Beatdown
Where: Vice, Dubai
When: 2 January
Dance the night away at Bollywood Beatdown, a lively party at Vice in Dubai that fuses Bollywood hits with high-energy club beats. Expect a packed dance floor, live DJs spinning popular Indian film tracks remixed with global electronic rhythms, and a vibrant crowd celebrating the cultural sounds and moves of Bollywood. Whether you love classic Hindi hits or modern chart-toppers, this immersive night creates a fun, festive atmosphere. Bring your friends, dress to impress, and get ready for a dynamic nightlife experience that makes the most of Dubai’s party scene.
www.rameedream.com
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Miami Band And Ayed live at Coca-Cola Arena
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
When: 3 January
Catch Miami Band And Ayed live at Cairo-Cola Arena in Dubai for an electrifying concert featuring contemporary Arabic hits and high-energy live vocals. The show blends pop and Middle Eastern musical influences, engaging fans with upbeat rhythms and crowd-pleasing performances. With world-class sound production and arena-sized energy, this concert promises an unforgettable night for music lovers throughout the UAE and beyond. Whether you’re already a fan or new to their music, expect a dynamic stage presence and a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for kicking off 2026 with a musical bang. Tickets start at Dhs 195.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
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Thomas Anders
Where: Dubai Opera
When: 3 January 2026
Iconic singer Thomas Anders, known as the former lead vocalist of pop duo Modern Talking, performs at Dubai Opera. Audiences can enjoy his timeless classics alongside solo work in an elegant theatrical setting. Dubai Opera’s acoustics and beautiful design provide a perfect backdrop for Anders’s smooth vocals and memorable melodies. The concert is ideal for fans of pop and classic hits, offering a nostalgic evening celebrating decades of music. With engaging stage presence and outstanding live arrangements, the show brings musical artistry to one of Dubai’s most prestigious cultural venues.
www.dubaiopera.com
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Stand Up Show By Nurlan Saburov
Where: Zabeel Theatre, Dubai
When: 4 And 5 January
Comedian Nurlan Saburov brings his stand-up comedy show to Zabeel Theatre, delivering sharp wit, hilarious observations, and crowd-winning humour. Known for his charismatic stage presence and relatable jokes, Saburov’s performance blends life insights with laugh-out-loud moments that connect with a diverse audience. Whether you’re a comedy aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, this show promises non-stop laughter in a comfortable theatre setting. Grab your friends, enjoy the show, and experience why Saburov is celebrated in the stand-up scene. Tickets start at Dhs 370.
www.artforall.ae
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Khalid Abdulrahman Live
Where: Dubai Opera
When: 4 January
Attend an evening concert featuring acclaimed Saudi singer Khalid Abdulrahman in Dubai, presenting a mix of beloved Arabic ballads and contemporary hits. The rich vocals and heartfelt compositions have won him wide acclaim across the Middle East. The show offers fans a chance to connect through music that blends deep emotion with catchy melodies. Performing in a city known for its diverse arts scene, Abdulrahman’s concert is sure to attract lovers of Arabic pop and traditional music alike. Expect an intimate vibe with powerful musical moments. Tickets start at Dhs 395.
www.dubaiopera.com
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Till Lindemann – Meine Welt Tour
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
When: 4 January
Experience Till Lindemann’s Meine Welt Tour, featuring the Rammstein frontman’s signature deep vocals and dramatic stage presence brought to Dubai. Known for his powerful performances and artistic intensity, Lindemann blends rock and industrial sounds with striking visuals. This concert offers fans an up-close experience of one of rock’s most distinctive voices in a live setting. Expect bold musical arrangements, energetic performance, and a dedicated crowd of global music fans. Whether you love rock or appreciate avant-garde concerts, this show delivers unforgettable live entertainment.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
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Lords Of The Sound Orchestra: Lord Of The Rings In Concert
Where: Zabeel Theatre
When: 6 January
Immerse yourself in a magical orchestral performance as Lords of the Sound Orchestra performs Lord of the Rings in Concert at Zabeel Theatre. This symphonic show brings John Williams’s iconic film scores to life with a full live orchestra, blending cinematic grandeur with live musical excellence. Fans of the epic fantasy saga will revel in sweeping melodies and dramatic arrangements performed on stage. Experience a fusion of visual storytelling and powerful orchestral music, perfect for music enthusiasts and fans of film soundtracks alike. Tickets start at Dhs 350.
www.artforall.ae
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Lords Of The Sound Orchestra: The Music Of Hans Zimmer
Where: Zabeel Theatre
When: 7 January
Enjoy an evening dedicated to the masterful works of Hans Zimmer with Lords of the Sound Orchestra at Zabeel Theatre. This concert features live orchestral renditions of Zimmer’s most beloved film compositions, from sweeping scores to dramatic themes. Known for his work on blockbuster movies, Zimmer’s music spans emotion, intensity, and cinematic brilliance. The orchestra delivers these iconic sounds in a live setting, capturing the essence of film music in concert form. Perfect for fans of orchestral music and cinema alike, this event offers a stirring, immersive experience.
www.artforall.ae
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The Laughter Factory January 2026
Where: Multiple venues across Dubai
When: 9, 10, 16 And 17 January
The Laughter Factory January 2026 brings a comedic tour across the UAE, featuring top stand-up comedians and fun personalities who deliver a non-stop lineup of jokes, sketches, and crowd-pleasing humour. Whether you enjoy observational comedy or energetic stage presence, this festival-style offering promises fun nights out and memorable punchlines in a relaxed, social setting. Tickets start at Dhs 160.
www.thelaughterfactory.com
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Varun Grover Live
Where: Dubai College Auditorium
When: 10 January
Experience Varun Grover’s wit in ‘Love, Death and Ketchup’ live. Varun Grover, who has been in the comedy circuit for a while, is known to entertain people through wit and satire. His talent isn't confined to stand-up comedy, but he is a renowned lyricist and scriptwriter as well, having lent his talent to famous Bollywood movies. He is back to tickle your funny bones with his new solo ‘Love, Death & Ketchup’. Tickets from Dhs 145.
www.sublime-entertainment.com
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Middle East Car And Bike Week
Where: Dubai Studio City
When: 10 And 11 January
Middle East Car and Bike Week is a celebration of motoring brilliance and the lifestyle that surrounds it. Experience the ultimate showcase of supercars, custom bikes, drifting arenas, music, food, and lifestyle. Expect gimmicks from global stunt and drifting arenas to award-winning custom builds, supercars, superbikes, luxury showrooms and dedicated stunt zones. Visitors can catch drifting displays, live motorcycle stunts, and even witness a Guinness World Record attempt in RC Racing. There’s also a lifestyle zone packed with entertainment, live music, children’s activities and exclusive ride-and-drive experiences. Tickets start at Dhs 75.
www.themiddleestcarandbikeweek.com
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Nutcracker By Russian State Ballet Mari El
Where: Zabeel Theatre - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
When: 11 January
Experience the timeless elegance of The Nutcracker performed by the Russian State Ballet Mari El at Zabeel Theatre. This classic ballet tells the magical story of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince, blending graceful choreography with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Whether you’re a ballet enthusiast or new to the art form, this performance offers a memorable evening of artistry, music, and cultural tradition in one of Dubai’s premier performing-arts venues.
www.artforall.ae
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Pavel Volya Live
Where: Dubai Opera
When: 13 January
For the first time ever, Pavel Volya, the most iconic, sharp-witted, and charismatic stand-up artist of the Russian-speaking world, will perform at Dubai Opera. A refined evening of intelligent humour, brilliant improvisation and bold social observations awaits guests in one of the most architecturally and acoustically exceptional venues in the Middle East. This exclusive performance brings together elegance, culture, and world-class entertainment. Tickets start at Dhs 390.
www.dubaiopera.com
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Wegz And Mounir Live
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
When: 17 January
Catch Wegz and Mounir live in Dubai for a concert blending genres, energy, and stage charisma. The event promises to showcase their top hits, engaging performance styles, and dynamic stage chemistry that appeals to a broad audience. Expect an electrifying atmosphere, strong beats, and an enthusiastic crowd as these artists bring their signature sounds to the city. Tickets start at Dhs 195.
www.coca-cola-arena.com
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Stand-Up Comedian Mina Nader Live
Where: Zabeel Theatre - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
When: 17 January
Mina Nader brings his unique comedic voice and sharp observational humour to Dubai with Wagef!, a stand-up show designed to make audiences laugh with wit, charm, and relatable storytelling. Known for his energetic performances and engaging stage presence, Nader mixes personal anecdotes with playful improv to deliver a night full of laughter. Tickets start at Dhs 195.
www.artforall.ae
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Cem Yilmaz Live
Where: Etihad Arena
When: 17 January
For the first time ever, Turkish comedy legend Cem Yilmaz is bringing his critically acclaimed stand-up show to the UAE, performing his show in Turkish, live at Etihad Arena, Yas Island on 17 January 2026.
This marks a major moment for the Turkish community in the UAE, who have long awaited Yilmaz’s debut performance in the region. Known for his sharp humour and magnetic stage presence, Yilmaz’s arrival is set to be one of the most anticipated comedy events of the year. Cem Yilmaz, Turkey’s undisputed king of comedy, is a multi-talented performer whose wit and storytelling have made him a cultural icon. Tickets start at Dhs 325.
www.etihadarena.ae
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Zakir Khan Live
Where: Dubai Opera
When: 21 January
Back by popular demand after a sold-out performance at the 2025 Dubai Comedy Festival, Zakir Khan is all set to bring his signature humour back to Dubai Opera this January. Zakir Khan’s rise in the comedy world is nothing short of remarkable. Known for his deeply personal, anecdotal style, Zakir’s comedy blends poetic flair with raw, relatable storytelling. Don’t miss your chance to see Zakir Khan live in Dubai, an evening of laughter, heart, and unforgettable storytelling awaits. Tickets start at Dhs 250.
www.dubaiopera.com
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Emirates LitFest 2026
Where: InterContinental Dubai Festival City
When: 21 to 27 January 2026
The Emirates LitFest 2026 returns to Dubai from 21 to 27 January 2026 with a star-studded lineup of global authors, including RF Kuang, Asma Khan, Samantha Shannon, Ruth Ware, and more book world favourites. The week-long event at InterContinental Dubai Festival City will feature over 200 sessions, family events, expert panels, and special experiences like LitFest After Hours and Desert Stanzas. Ticket prices start at Dhs 50.
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AR Rahman Live
Where: Etihad Arena
When: 23 January
Renowned for seamlessly fusing classical Indian melodies with modern soundscapes, AR Rahman promises an immersive evening of sweeping orchestral arrangements, stunning visuals, and the signature musical magic that has captivated audiences across the globe.
Over a career that has transformed both film and live music, Rahman has left an indelible mark, from his revolutionary debut to global acclaim, which earned him two Academy Awards and two Grammy Awards. A legend of music, a night of wonder, this is an experience that transcends borders and time. Tickets start at Dhs 225.
www.etihadarena.ae
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Charlie Cook's Favourite Book
Where: Zabeel Theatre - Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
When: 25 January
Come and delve into a range of books with Charlie Cook, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs, and perhaps you will be able to help his sister discover the wonderful world inside a book. Designed for children and families, the show celebrates the excitement of discovering new stories. It invites audiences to see how books inspire curiosity, fuel imagination, and connect people, even those who may not think of themselves as readers.
www.artforall.ae
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Quoz Arts Fest 2026
Where: Alserkal Avenue
When: 24 And 25 January
Quoz Arts Fest by Alserkal Avenue, is an annual celebration of arts and culture that has been held since 2012. The festival takes place in Alserkal Avenue and across the surrounding Al Quoz area, celebrating the thinkers and makers from this creative neighbourhood. Quoz Arts Fest includes activities for all ages, such as live performances, exhibitions, art installations, talks, workshops, music, food, creative pop-ups and more. Tickets start from Dhs 100.
www.quozartsfest.alserkal.online
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Tom Odell Live
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
When: 24 January
The English singer-songwriter Tom Odell, best known for his worldwide hit ‘Another Love’, which has surpassed three billion streams on Spotify, will deliver an emotionally charged show filled with intimate ballads and candid storytelling at the City Walk venue. Dubai fans can look forward to an unforgettable night featuring both beloved classics and new material, brought to life through Odell’s signature piano-driven sound and raw authenticity. Ticket prices start from Dhs 295.
ww.coca-cola-arena.com
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Wicked Live
Where: Dubai Opera
When: From 28 January Until
A true global phenomenon, Wicked, the most popular musical in the world, follows the incredible journey that unfolds long before Dorothy’s iconic arrival in Oz. It’s the story of two remarkable young women. Glinda is beautiful, ambitious, and admired; Elphaba is brilliant yet misunderstood with emerald-green skin. What begins as an unlikely friendship soon becomes a riveting rivalry that shapes their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. A spellbinding story of sisterhood, identity, and empowerment, Wicked is the smash-hit musical by composer Stephen Schwartz, book writer Winnie Holzman, and based on the novel by Gregory Maguire. Tickets start at Dhs 275.
www.dubaiopera.com
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Air Supply Live
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
When: 30 January
Legendary soft rock duo Air Supply will bring their 50th Anniversary Celebration Tour to Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai on Friday, 30 January 2026, marking a special milestone in their storied career. Formed in 1975 when Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock met in the chorus of the Australian touring company of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, Air Supply has spent nearly five decades captivating audiences worldwide and now it's the UAE's turn! Tickets start from Dhs 199.
ww.coca-cola-arena.com
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Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open 2026
Where: International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City
When: 31 January Until 7 February
Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a thrilling week of world-class women's tennis as the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, presented by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, returns for its fourth edition from 31 January to 7 February 2026 at the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City. Featuring 28 singles players and 16 doubles teams, the tournament continues to grow in prestige, offering valuable ranking points and attracting some of the biggest names in women’s tennis.
www.mubadalaabudhabiopen.com