From retro throwbacks to arena anthems and genre-crossing acts, the coming year is shaping up as a spectacular season for live music in the city. Here’s a preview of some of the concerts and festivals to watch.
Rewind Dubai 2026: Retro Flashback
One of the most eagerly awaited events of early 2026 is Rewind Dubai, slated for February 7. This single-day retro festival returns with a lineup that leans into nostalgia, featuring acts from the 1980s and 1990s. Expect names like Bananarama, Nik Kershaw, Go West, Jason Donovan, and more. The festival aims to transport audiences through hit after hit, delivering sing-along moments and a feel of the golden pop era.
With doors opening in the evening, this festival is tailor-made for fans who love the classics but also want the production, lighting and spectacle of modern concerts. If you grew up with cassette tapes and VHS, this is a chance to relive those days in a grand live setting.
Big Time Rush — Final Dubai Performance
Pop lovers will mark March 26, 2026, on their calendars. Big Time Rush is expected to conclude its “In Real Life Worldwide Tour” in Dubai, at the Coca-Cola Arena. It’s a meaningful finale — a moment for fans to gather and celebrate the group’s catalog of energetic pop hits in one final hometown-like send-off.
The band is known for its passionate fan base, high energy performances, and catchy hooks, making its Dubai show not just a concert but a momentous occasion. Tickets will be in high demand, especially for VIP packages and meet-and-greet options.
Genre Variety at Coca-Cola Arena & More
Beyond the headline events, Dubai continues to host a diverse slate of concerts across multiple genres through its prime venues, especially Coca-Cola Arena. Some of the artists already confirmed or being rumored include:
- SB19, a rising pop act, who are scheduled to perform at Coca-Cola Arena
- Lost Frequencies and Anyma, bringing electronic vibes later in 2026
- Def Leppard, performing a rock concert at Coca-Cola Arena
- Additional artists are also being booked for The Agenda — a venue known for mid-sized concerts and more intimate shows
This kind of genre spread—pop, EDM, rock, indie—ensures that whether you’re a fan of stadium spectacles or club-style sets, there’s usually something happening.
The Mayhem Ball & Bigger Tours
One widely watched tour is Lady Gaga’s “The Mayhem Ball,” which spans 2025 into 2026. Although the official end of the tour is currently slated in New York in April 2026, fans have speculated whether there might be extended legs or surprise shows in hubs like Dubai. Her shows often combine theatricality, production complexity, and star power, so any Dubai appearance would be a major draw.
Inferring from global patterns, other big touring acts who hit Asia or the Middle East in 2026 might add Dubai stops — so keep an eye on announcements from artists in the pop, R&B, rock, and electronic sectors.
Festival Seasons & Mixed Lineups
Concerts in Dubai are not just about solo artists; festivals and themed events are integral. Beyond Rewind, expect multi-artist festivals that mix local talent with international names, often tied to seasonal periods or holiday surges.
Because the climate is coolest from around November to March, the concert season peaks during those months. Outdoor arenas and open venues are more comfortable then, and promoters often cluster major shows into that window.
Tips for Concertgoers in 2026
- Book in advance — Big acts sell out quickly, especially VIP packages.
- Stay updated — Artists sometimes add Dubai as surprise dates closer to tour launches.
- Choose your venue wisely — Coca-Cola Arena handles large productions, while The Agenda offers more intimate shows.
- Check secondary markets cautiously — Scalping is a risk, especially for high-demand shows.
- Plan for travel & lodging — For big concert weekends, hotel rooms close to the venue may fill fast.
- Watch ticket release times — Pre-sales, promos, and fan club offerings can offer early access.
- Seasonal advantage — November through March is generally the safest bet for pleasant concert evenings.
