For the theatre fans…
Whether you’re into soulful ballads, rock anthems, or timeless musicals, 2025 is packed with unforgettable performances across the UAE. We’ve got your back with a handy guide to what’s taking place in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
If you’re a true musical fan, chances are you’ve already been swept away by Phantom of the Opera, danced along to Singin’ in the Rain, or felt the chills from Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. But don’t hang up your playbill just yet—the curtain’s far from closed. There’s plenty more theatrical magic on the way. We still have more to look forward to this year.
So, without further ado…
Here are 3 musicals in the UAE you just can’t miss.
Abu Dhabi
Mamma Mia!
When: Wednesday, June 11 to 22, 2025
Where: Etihad Arena
ABBA fans, get ready—this one’s made for you! Mamma Mia! is bringing its feel-good vibes and unforgettable soundtrack to the UAE stage. Set to the storytelling magic of ABBA’s greatest hits, this heartwarming tale of love, family, and friendship is coming to life at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi this June.
Mamma Mia! follows the lively story of Sophie, a bride-to-be determined to find her real father before her big day. The twist? It could be one of three men from her mother’s past. Set on a sun-soaked Greek island, the musical unravels with a perfect mix of chaos, charm, and ABBA’s endlessly catchy hits. As Sophie scrambles to keep the potential dads apart—and her mom in the dark—the stage is set for laughs, surprises, and a whole lot of singing and dancing.
Tickets can be purchased here for a starting price of Dhs125.
Mamma Mia Abu Dhabi, Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, June 11 to 22, prices from Dhs125. Tel: (600) 511 115. @etihadarena
When: Thursday, November 20 to 30, 2025
Where: Etihad Arena
Seen the cartoons? Watched the movie? Maybe even dared to say his name three times? Well, get ready—BEETLEJUICE The Musical is coming to life on stage in Abu Dhabi this November! The delightfully chaotic, hilariously spooky ghost takes over the capital from Thursday, November 20 to Saturday, November 30, 2025.
BEETLEJUICE The Musical spins the wild tale of Lydia Deetz—a “strange and unusual” teen grappling with the loss of her mother and a dad who’s too distracted to notice. After moving into a house haunted by a recently deceased couple and a loudmouthed demon with a love for stripes, Lydia finds herself right at home. Obsessed with the afterlife, she enlists the help of her ghostly roommates to scare off her clueless father and overbearing stepmother. Enter Beetlejuice, who hatches a chaotic plan that includes a near-exorcism, a terrified girl scout, and a whole (nether)world of madcap mayhem.
In the meantime, join us as we say… Beetlejuice… Beetlejuice… Beetlejuice…
Beetlejuice in Abu Dhabi, Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Nov 20 to 30, Tel: (600) 511 115. @etihadarena
Dubai
Grease the Musical
Grease is the word—and it’s heading to the UAE stage this October! Beloved by audiences around the world, this high-energy, feel-good musical will light up the Performing Arts Center for a 10-day run from Friday, October 24 to Sunday, November 2, 2025. Expect all the hits, slicked-back hair, and summer lovin’ vibes you know and love.
Grease the Musical follows the classic story of Sandy, the sweet ‘good girl,’ and Danny, the smooth-talking greaser with a rebel streak. After a whirlwind summer romance, the two part ways—thinking they’ll never see each other again. But fate has other plans. When Sandy unexpectedly transfers to Danny’s high school, sparks fly once more… but so does the drama. With Danny trying to protect his tough-guy image and peer pressure pulling them in opposite directions, the question is: can love survive the high school halls, or will it all slip through their fingers?
Tickets can already be purchased here for a starting price of Dhs280 per person.
Grease the Musical, Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, Oct 24 to Nov 2, Tel: (0)4 440 8888. @dubaiopera
Coming soon
Once Upon a Time in Dubai
Heard of Once Upon a Time in Dubai? It’s not just a musical—it’s a full-on love letter to the incredible city we call home. Rooted in the heart of Dubai, this original production was dreamed up by Dubai-based French music producer Stéphane Boukris. It’s a homegrown celebration of the city’s spirit, culture, and unstoppable energy—told through music, movement, and powerful storytelling.
This homegrown musical is set to celebrate everything that makes Dubai extraordinary—the city’s boundless energy, its power to create, elevate, and transform lives. Once Upon a Time in Dubai will spotlight the stories of people from all walks of life who come here to chase dreams, build futures, and find themselves. Through a fusion of standout music, heartfelt storytelling, and the subtle details of everyday Dubai life, the show promises to capture the soul of the city we all know and love.
Set against the dazzling backdrop of Dubai, Once Upon a Time in Dubai follows the journey of Will, a young artist who relocates from London to reunite with his partner, Sophia, and chase his dream of creating a spectacular musical. As Will navigates the challenges of building a life—and a show—in a city full of ambition and opportunity, the story explores themes of love, resilience, and the rich cultural fabric of Dubai. With a vibrant blend of emotion, energy, and local flavor, this original production promises an unforgettable experience for audiences.
A date for the first show is still under wraps, but we will let you know as soon as we know more.
