Spotlight on the UAE's Music Scene

The UAE is a vibrant hub for music, attracting talented artists from around the world as well as nurturing homegrown talents. From international superstars to local emerging artists, the UAE really has it all! 

In this post we are sharing with you the names of those who are making waves in the UAE music industry, together with the dates of the most awaited concerts of the year.

Artists 

One of the most notable international artists who have made an impact in the UAE's music scene is the global pop sensation, Dua Lipa. The British-Albanian singer-songwriter has performed in the UAE multiple times and has a strong following among music fans in the region. Her chart-topping hits and electrifying live performances have captivated audiences in venues across the Emirates, cementing her status as a pop icon in the Middle East. 

On the local front, the UAE boasts a growing number of talented musicians and bands who are gaining recognition both at home and abroad. One such artist is Abri, a Dubai-based singer-songwriter known for his soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. With a sound that fuses elements of R&B, pop, and soul, Abri has established himself as a rising star in the UAE's music scene. 

Another standout artist is Layla Kardan, an Iranian-Australian singer-songwriter who has made a name for herself in the UAE with her soulful blend of jazz, pop, and electronic music. She calls the music she makes «dream pop», and dream pop it is – with electronic synths and beats, jazzy melodic lines and lyrics with substance. Layla grew up on a stage as a classical ballerina, this is why she is not only a good singer, but an excellent dancer, too. This girl who have won Emirates Woman Artist of the Year and Esquire Middle East Music Artist of the Year, is always well received both locally and abroad. 

The UAE is home to dynamic music bands that are pushing boundaries and redefining the local music landscape. One such group is the Dubai-based electronic music duo, Bull Funk Zoo, known for their high-energy performances and genre-defying sound that blends elements of rock, funk, and electronic music. With a reputation for delivering electrifying live shows, Bull Funk Zoo played almost every venue in the region of the UAE and toured internationally, where they performed for audiences from 5,000 to 30,000 people.

Concerts and festivals

Sole DXB 

While not exclusively a music festival, Sole DXB is a cultural event that includes music performances from both local and international artists. The event usually takes place in November and offers live concerts, DJ sets, sports tournaments, talks and workshops. The 2023 edition honoured 'Hip Hop 50', a celebration by entertainment company Mass Appeal – helmed by international rap star Nas. The line-up included rappers like Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, Tobe Nwigne, Big Daddy Kane and DJ Shadow. Stay tuned for details about the 2024 edition, it is a must-visit for music enthusiasts with a taste for urban culture.

WATERBOMB Festival 

The musical carnival, which has been entertaining audiences across South Korea since 2015, will see the top K-pop, EDM and regional stars raise the roof at the Dubai Festival City on 7 and 8 June.

Powerful cannons and jets will spray water all around the venue, so the music lovers will get soaked as they groove to the beats of international hitmakers. The line-up includes such famous rappers as CL and PH-1. Ideal opportunity to cool down this summer!

3 Twenty show

Even though most music festivals are held in the UAE in the beginning of the year, music lovers have yet a lot to look forward to in 2024. Whether you're a fan of pop, jazz, rock or electronic music, there's always something for everyone on the city's concert calendar.

From pop superstars to indie darlings, from local artists to international ones, the UAE is a vibrant music landscape. Someone calls the UAE premier music destination in the Middle East. And it is for a reason, huh?