All the Abu Dhabi concerts and shows worth booking this January, from pop legends to family shows here’s the complete guide
This is your all-access pass to the biggest gigs, must-see shows and performances worth planning your month around. From legendary voices and stadium singalongs to ballet, comedy and family favourites, Abu Dhabi concerts cover every mood this January. It’s all here in one place, from intimate stages to arena-sized nights. Here’s your guide to the Abu Dhabi concerts and live shows setting Abu Dhabi’s January off on a high note.
Diana Ross and Seal – January 9
Image: supplied
Two unmistakable voices share the same stage on Saadiyat Island. Diana Ross brings decades of Motown and solo hits, while Seal adds grit and soul from the 90s onward. Together, it’s a cross-generation night built on big songs and bigger memories.
Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Time: doors open at 5pm
Cost: Tickets from Dhs295
Romeo and Juliet – Janaury 9
Image: Cultural Foundation
The Russian State Ballet Mari El brings Shakespeare’s tragedy to the Cultural Foundation. Prokofiev’s score carries the story through dramatic ensemble scenes and intimate duets. It’s a classic, performed with precision and emotional weight.
Location: Cultural Foundation, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Abu Dhabi
Time: 8pm
Cost: From Dhs250
Contact: (02) 657 6348
Ludocivo Einaudi – January 10
Image: supplied
Italian composer Ludovico Einaudi returns with music that moves quietly but deeply. His piano-led pieces are known for their emotional pull and cinematic calm. It’s the kind of concert that leaves you feeling lighter than when you arrived.
Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Time: doors open at 5pm
Cost: Tickets from Dhs295
Cinderella – January 10
Image: Cultural Foundation
This family favourite arrives with elegant choreography and rich storytelling. The Russian State Ballet Mari El leans into the humour of the stepsisters and the softness of Cinderella’s journey. It’s polished, colourful and easy to enjoy at any age.
Location: Cultural Foundation, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Abu Dhabi
Time: 6pm
Cost: From Dhs275
Contact: (02) 657 6348
Cem Yılmaz – January 17
Turkish comedy legend Cem Yılmaz makes his Abu Dhabi debut with a live stand-up show performed in Turkish. Known for sharp observations and magnetic stage presence, his work blends satire, social commentary and storytelling. This marks a major moment for the Turkish community in the UAE.
Location: Etihad Arena
Time: doors open 6:30pm
Cost: from Dhs325
Contact: (600) 511 115
Lewis Capaldi – January 17
Image: What’s On Archive
Lewis Capaldi brings his raw vocals, self-deprecating humour and heartbreak anthems to Saadiyat Nights The Scottish singer broke through with Someone You Loved and followed it with emotional crowd favourites like Before You Go. Prepare your vocalcords for big singalongs, honest moments and a crowd that feels like one voice.
Location: Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Time: doors open at 5pm
Cost: Tickets from Dhs450
Hany Shaker and Wael Jassar – January 18
Hany Shaker and Wael Jassar come together for an evening of elegant Arabic ballads. Both artists draw from decades-long careers that have shaped romantic Arabic music across generations. Expect a night rooted in nostalgia, warmth and timeless songs.
Location: Space 42 Arena
Time: doors 6pm
Cost: Dhs95
Linkin Park – January 20
Image: Linkin Park Instagram
Linkin Park return to Abu Dhabi for their first show here since 2010. The band performs with Emily Armstrong on vocals, following their regrouping in 2024. Expect a powerful night that honours the band’s legacy while looking forward.
Location: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Time: doors open 6:30pm
Contact: (600) 511 115
AR Rahman – January 23
Image: What’s On Archive
AR Rahman brings his Wonderment Tour to Abu Dhabi. Known as the Mozart of Madras, his work blends Indian classical traditions with global influences. His career spans more than 150 films, including Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours.
Location: Etihad Arena
Time: 8:30pm
Cost: from Dhs225
Contact: (600) 511 115
John Mayer – January 24
Image: supplied
John Mayer is a master at making six strings sound like conversation. The seven-time Grammy winner moves effortlessly between tender acoustic songs and blues-tinged rock. Tracks like Gravity, Your Body Is a Wonderland and Slow Dancing in a Burning Room are his signatures.
Location: Saadiyat Island
Time: doors open 5pm
Cost: from Dhs345
Max Richter – January 29
Image: supplied
Max Richter creates music that feels cinematic and deeply emotional. Blending classical and contemporary sound, his work invites listeners into expansive soundscapes. At Saadiyat Nights, the amphitheatre becomes part of the performance.
Location: Saadiyat Island
Time: doors open 5pm
Cost: from Dhs195
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out – January 30
Image: supplied
Peppa Pig live show lands in Abu Dhabi with songs, sandcastles and muddy puddles. This live show is set to be packed with songs, giggles and muddy puddles. The family-friendly production runs across multiple showtimes over the weekend. It’s a lively outing designed for little fans.
Location: Etihad Arena
Time: Friday doors open 4:30pm; Saturday doors open 10am, 1:30pm, 5pm
Cost: from Dhs99
Contact: (600) 511 115
Ricky Martin – January 31
Image: What’s On Archive
When Latin pop exploded around the world in the late 1990s, Ricky Martin was right at the heart of it. To close out January Ricky Martin brings his Latin pop energy to Saadiyat Island. The singer helped define late 90s pop with hits like Livin’ la Vida Loca, María and The Cup of Life. Ricky Martin knows how to make a crowd move and sing, and his set will feel like a party right from the first beat under those Saadiyat lights.
Location: Saadiyat Island
Time: doors open 5pm
Cost: from Dhs295
