The region’s live music calendar is bursting at the seams. Get ready because this year is packed with everything from nostalgic throwbacks to the chaos of Travis Scott’s Circus Maximus and wild afterparty line-ups. Below, we round up the biggest shows landing across the UAE and Saudi Arabia this year.
Saudi Arabia
Central Cee, R3HAB & more
July 31, Riyadh Railway Grounds
U.K. rapper Central Cee and Dutch DJ R3HAB lead a genre-blending concert that fuses hard-hitting hip-hop with euphoric EDM beats. Known for his chart-topping singles and slick wordplay, Central Cee brings the London sound to Riyadh. R3HAB, meanwhile, delivers high-energy drops that promise to keep the crowd dancing all night.
Ghostly Kisses
July 31, Abadi Al-Johar Arena, Jeddah
Get swept up in the dreamy sounds of Canadian indie-pop artist Ghostly Kisses during this intimate evening at Jeddah’s Abadi Al-Johar Arena. Expect atmospheric vocals, ethereal instrumentals, and heart-tugging lyrics in a cosy setting perfect for a mid-summer serenade.
Marwan Khoury
August 1–2, Vocally, Riyadh
The Lebanese maestro returns to Riyadh with two nights of sweeping romantic ballads and poetic pop classics. Known for his powerful songwriting and timeless voice, Khoury’s performances at the boutique Vocally venue promise emotional highs and nostalgic melodies.
R3HAB
August 1, Jeddah airport grounds
Following his Riyadh set, R3HAB brings his signature EDM sounds to Jeddah for a night of soaring drops and electrifying rhythm. Catch him under the stars at the Jeddah Airport Grounds for a dance-heavy set that’s pure summer adrenaline.
Riyadh Film Music Festival
July 30–Aug 8, Princess Nourah University, Riyadh
This unique festival pairs live orchestras with beloved movie soundtracks. Expect grand performances of cinematic scores from your favourite films, Top Gun: Maverick, The Lion King, and Back to the Future, all performed by world-class musicians.
Azimuth
Jul–Sep, AlUla
Set in the breathtaking desert surrounds of AlUla, Azimuth brings an eclectic mix of global artists to an open-air amphitheatre like no other. The festival blends music, heritage, and natural beauty into a one-of-a-kind cultural experience.
Space Motion Live
August 8, Riyadh
Get ready for a night of deep house and melodic techno as Space Motion takes over Riyadh. Presented by Euphoria, this high-octane set promises hypnotic beats and dancefloor energy in a sleek, immersive venue.
Soundstorm
Dec 2025, Riyadh
Soundstorm returns with an explosive mix of EDM, hip-hop, and surprise global acts. Expect massive stages, dazzling visuals, and a party crowd that doesn’t quit. It’s the ultimate end-of-year blowout.
UAE
Limp Bizkit
August 12, Etihad Park, Abu Dhabi
Fred Durst and the nu-metal legends bring their Loserville Tour to the UAE for the first time. It’s a full-throttle blast of early 2000s rebellion, riffs, and throwback anthems.
Natalie Imbruglia
August 23, Dubai Opera
The Aussie singer-songwriter known for “Torn” performs an intimate set spanning her decades-long career. Expect heartfelt ballads and acoustic warmth in the iconic Dubai venue.
Macy Gray
August 29, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
With her raspy vocals and soulful style, Macy Gray brings a powerhouse set of R&B hits to Dubai. From “I Try” to her latest releases, it’s a night of groove and soul.
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan & Shazman Ali Khan
August 30, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Prepare for a moving evening of Qawwali and Bollywood classics as father-son duo Rahat and Shazman deliver an unforgettable performance steeped in musical heritage.
Haitham Yousif
September 5, Dubai Opera
Known as the “King of Love,” Iraqi singer Haitham Yousif serenades fans with decades of romantic favourites in a night dedicated to love and nostalgia.
Kostcon 2025
September 5, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
K-pop fans, take note: six stars from your favourite Korean dramas will perform iconic OSTs in an emotional one-night-only concert of swoon-worthy vocals and fan service.
AP Dhillon
September 7, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Blending Punjabi rhythms with global pop appeal, AP Dhillon’s return to Dubai promises high-energy anthems, sleek visuals, and a packed dancefloor.
Dionela
September 14, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Filipino R&B breakout Dionela hits the stage with his heartfelt vocals and hits like “Marilag” and “Oksihina.” A night for soulful lyrics and big feelings.
Marwan Khoury & Faia Younan
October 1, Dubai Opera
Two Arabic music powerhouses unite for a night of rich vocals, poetic lyrics, and orchestral splendour. A feast for fans of classical Arabic music.
The Smashing Pumpkins
October 9, Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
Alternative rock legends The Smashing Pumpkins bring their iconic sound to the UAE. Expect mood, grit, and unforgettable anthems.
Abdul Majeed Abdullah
October 11, Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
A titan of Khaleeji music, Abdul Majeed Abdullah performs his greatest hits in a night full of nostalgia and cultural pride.
Kings of Convenience
October 16, Dubai Opera
The Norwegian folk-pop duo bring quiet charm and subtle storytelling to the Dubai stage. It’s all soft harmonies and acoustic intimacy.
Lil Baby
October 18, Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Atlanta’s rap star Lil Baby arrives with his chart-dominating tracks and undeniable stage presence. Get ready for a night of trap hits and swagger.
Stay tuned for more concert announcements as the UAE continues to turn up the volume on 2025. Whether you're into Qawwali or EDM, there's a show waiting with your name on it.
