DUBAI: Dubai Opera today concluded its landmark 10th Anniversary Season Opening celebration, bringing together government representatives, strategic partners, sponsors and members of the media to commemorate a decade of artistic excellence while officially unveiling its highly anticipated 2026–2027 season.
Since opening its doors on 31 August 2016, Dubai Opera has evolved into one of the region’s most recognised performing arts destinations, connecting audiences in Dubai and across the wider region with exceptional artists, productions and creative experiences from around the world.
Over the past decade, the iconic Downtown Dubai venue has welcomed more than 1.5 million visitors, presented over 2,500 performances and hosted more than 6,500 artists from across the globe.
From opera, ballet and classical music to contemporary concerts, theatre, musicals, comedy and special live performances, Dubai Opera has created a home for artistic expression in one of the world’s most international cities, bringing together cultures, generations and creative traditions under one roof.
Under the anniversary theme, “10 years of bringing the world to the stage, and the stage to the world,” the milestone celebrates not only the performances and artists that have defined Dubai Opera’s first decade, but also its role as a cultural bridge between Dubai and the international creative community.
Lara Ewing, Head of Dubai Opera, said: “For the past ten years, Dubai Opera has been a place where cultures meet, stories come to life and audiences experience the transformative power of the performing arts. Reaching this milestone is a celebration of everyone who has been part of our journey – from the artists and creative teams who have graced our stage to the audiences who have continued to fill our seats with enthusiasm and curiosity. “As we look ahead to the next decade, we remain committed to bringing exceptional artistic experiences to Dubai, creating new opportunities for connection through live performance and continuing to connect this extraordinary city with the world through the universal language of the arts.”
Partnerships Supporting Dubai Opera’s Next Chapter
Partnerships continue to play an important role in Dubai Opera’s development and in creating new ways for audiences to engage with world-class culture.
Building on two successful seasons, Dubai Opera and American Express Middle East have extended their partnership for a further three years, reinforcing a shared commitment to delivering exceptional cultural experiences and added value for American Express Card Members.
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “As Dubai Opera opens the doors to its new season we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to this iconic institution, one that has over the past decade evolved from a cultural venue into a defining symbol of Dubai’s artistic ambition and global outlook. Since its inception in 2016, Dubai Opera has done more than host world-class talent and extraordinary productions; it has redefined what audiences from across the globe expect from Dubai, cementing the emirate’s place among the world’s most dynamic cultural capitals. The new season stands as a testament to this vision, offering an unparalleled calendar of experiences for residents and visitors alike while fueling the continued growth of Dubai’s tourism, events and creative industries.”
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design & Literature Sector at Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, said: “Dubai Opera’s 10th anniversary is an important milestone in Dubai’s cultural journey. Over the past decade, it has helped establish the performing arts as a shared part of city life, bringing audiences into contact with diverse artistic traditions and providing a prominent stage for talent from Dubai and around the world.
Sabine Khalil Fares, Vice President, Marketing, American Express Middle East, said: “Building on two successful seasons, our three-year partnership extension with Dubai Opera reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional access and experiences for American Express Card Members. Our Cards are more than a way to pay. They unlock meaningful experiences and bring the value of Membership to life. Together with Dubai Opera, we look forward to making world-class culture more accessible and creating seamless, memorable moments for our Card Members.”
Yan Bechet, Interim Head of International Wealth and Premier Banking, HSBC UAE, said: “At HSBC, we believe wealth is about more than finances, it is about enriching lives and bringing people together. Our partnership with Dubai Opera, now in its second season, reflects that clearly. As the UAE continues to become home to a growing international community, we are proud to connect our customers to the very best of the arts and to support the cultural life of the city.”
Dubai Opera’s contribution to the city’s cultural landscape is further strengthened through its continued collaboration with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, reflecting a shared commitment to widening access to culture, nurturing creative talent and supporting artistic exchange.
“Through our continued collaboration with Dubai Opera, we are strengthening the creative ecosystem by widening access, nurturing talent and encouraging artistic exchange. As the 2026-27 season begins, we look forward to a programme that carries this legacy into a new decade, creates meaningful connections between communities and cultures, and advances our ambition for Dubai to become a global cultural reference, a leader in innovation, a driver of the creative economy, and rooted in Emirati heritage.”
Dubai Opera’s partnership with Amouage also brings together two creative worlds united by artistry, craftsmanship and the ability to create memorable experiences, with fragrance and the performing arts coming into dialogue throughout the 2026–27 season.
Andras Komar, Global Head of Communications, Amouage, said: “At Amouage, we believe fragrance belongs among the great arts. Like music or theatre, it has the power to move us and create resonance long after a moment has passed. Our partnership with Dubai Opera brings these worlds into dialogue, united by a shared devotion to artistry, craftsmanship and excellence. We are excited to deepen this creative exchange during the 2026–27 season and explore new ways for fragrance to enrich the experience on stage and beyond.”
A Decade of Memories and the Beginning of a New Era
At the heart of the anniversary celebrations is Dubai Opera’s 10th Anniversary Gala: A Decade of Memories, taking place on 12 September 2026, bringing together international and UAE-based talent for a landmark evening celebrating ten years of artistic excellence and cultural exchange.
Internationally acclaimed soprano Fatma Said headlines the milestone performance, joined by the UAE National Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Ahmed Farag, the Festival Chorus from The Fridge, and special guests from the worlds of dance and opera.
The evening opens with the world premiere of “Fakhrana Overture,” a new orchestral work by renowned composer Mohamed Medhat, commissioned especially for Dubai Opera’s 10th anniversary and inspired by the venue’s decade-long cultural journey.
The programme takes audiences across the great stages and musical traditions of the world, featuring Verdi’s La Forza del Destino overture, Puccini’s O mio babbino caro, Bizet’s Habanera and Les Voici! Voici la Quadrille, Mascagni’s Intermezzo and Loewe’s I Could Have Danced All Night.
Dance takes centre stage through Celebrating Movement, featuring Jan Martens’ acclaimed Period Piece, performed by Kaine Ward, with lighting by Rudy Parra and set to Górecki’s Three Dances, presented by Dance Reflections by Van Cleef & Arpels.
The Gala will also pay tribute to some of the Arab world’s most beloved musical icons, with Fatma Said presenting new interpretations of Fairouz’s Aatini Al Naya wa Ghanni, Mohamed Abdel Wahab’s La Mosh Ana El Abki and Dalida’s Gamil El Soura.
The evening culminates in a grand operatic finale featuring the Prelude and Brindisi from Verdi’s La Traviata, bringing soloists, choir and orchestra together in a fitting conclusion to the milestone celebration.
The anniversary itself was also brought into the heart of Downtown Dubai with a special Burj Khalifa projection on 31 August, paying tribute to ten years of performances, artists, audiences and memorable cultural moments.
Lara Ewing added: “Since its opening, Dubai Opera has grown to represent far more than a performance venue. It has become a meeting point for artists, audiences, cultures and ideas, reflecting the diversity and international spirit of Dubai itself.
“Its programming has enabled audiences to experience multiple forms of live entertainment within one destination, while introducing new generations to opera, ballet, theatre and classical music alongside contemporary performances and globally recognised productions.”
Dubai Opera Unveils its 2026–27 Season
Building on the legacy of its first decade, Dubai Opera now looks firmly towards the future with a 2026–27 season bringing internationally celebrated companies, artists and productions to Dubai across opera, ballet, classical and contemporary music, theatre and comedy.
The programme reinforces Dubai Opera’s commitment to presenting diverse artistic experiences for the city’s equally diverse audiences while continuing to connect Dubai with leading creative talent from around the world.
SEPTEMBER
Dubai Opera’s 10th Anniversary Gala – 12 September 2026 | Special Edition
A landmark celebration led by internationally acclaimed soprano Fatma Said, the UAE National Orchestra, Maestro Ahmed Farag and the Festival Chorus. The evening features the world premiere of Mohamed Medhat’s newly commissioned Fakhrana Overture, alongside opera, beloved Arab classics and Celebrating Movement, featuring Jan Martens’ acclaimed Period Piece.
The Marriage of Figaro Ballet – 17–19 September 2026 | Ballet
Dubai Opera opens its landmark 10th Anniversary Season with the Ukrainian National Ballet’s adaptation of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, celebrating love, wit and theatrical brilliance while marking the 270th anniversary of Mozart’s birth. Expressive choreography, artistry and sumptuous costumes transform the comic masterpiece into a fresh ballet experience.
OCTOBER
God Save the Queen – 5 October 2026 | Concert
The acclaimed Queen tribute band makes its Dubai debut following more than 1,000 performances worldwide. Led by Pablo Padín, the production recreates Queen’s legendary live shows with iconic anthems including Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You and Somebody to Love.
Marilyne Naaman – 6 October 2026 | Concert
Lebanese singer and award-winning actress Marilyne Naaman brings her distinctive blend of Arabic music and contemporary pop to Dubai Opera. Following recognition through The Voice France and a growing regional music and acting career, Naaman represents a new generation of Arab performers.
The Amy Winehouse Band – 8 October 2026 | Concert
Marking 20 years of Back to Black, Amy Winehouse’s original musicians, led by her long-time musical director and close friend Dale Davis, celebrate the artist’s music and extraordinary legacy through her iconic hits and fan favourites.
Mohandis Al Thouq Al Aam – 9–10 October 2026 | Comedy
A humorous social comedy following a couple as they navigate the excitement, emotional ups and downs and unexpected situations surrounding the arrival of their first child. Blending family life with sharp social observations, the production brings a distinctly relatable and light-hearted Gulf perspective to the stage.
Dubai Comedy Festival – 9–18 October 2026 | Comedy
Dubai Comedy Festival returns for its seventh edition with ten days of world-class comedy in multiple languages. Global stars join rising regional and local talent in a celebration of diverse voices, bold humour and the universal language of comedy.
Gipsy Kings Symphonic – 22 October 2026 | Concert
Led by André Reyes, founder of the legendary GIPSY KINGS, GIPSY KINGS Symphonic brings the group’s iconic rumba flamenca to Dubai Opera in an orchestral format, featuring favourites including Bamboleo, Djobi Djoba, Volare and Un Amor.
Titizé – A Venetian Dream – 29–31 October 2026 | Theatre
Internationally acclaimed Compagnia Finzi Pasca invites audiences into a dreamlike world inspired by Venice, combining acrobatics, clowning, physical theatre and live music in a visually spectacular production featuring ten extraordinary artists.
NOVEMBER
Benjamin Clementine – 1 November 2026 | Concert
British singer, pianist and composer Benjamin Clementine brings his distinctive blend of experimental pop, contemporary classical and jazz to Dubai Opera. The Mercury Prize-winning artist has built an acclaimed international career through his singular voice, compositions and live performances.
Trevor Noah – 25–26 November 2026 | Comedy
Following hugely successful UAE appearances and sold-out arena shows, Emmy Award-winning comedian and former host of The Daily Show Trevor Noah returns to Dubai Opera for two intimate performances, bringing his celebrated wit and storytelling to the stage.
Hiba Tawaji & Ibrahim Maalouf – 27 November 2026 | Concert
Hiba Tawaji and Ibrahim Maalouf unite for À La Française, a one-night-only performance inspired by French musical heritage. Combining Tawaji’s powerful vocals with Maalouf’s distinctive trumpet and compositions, the programme moves between classical influences, jazz, chanson and contemporary sounds.
DECEMBER
The Tsar’s Bride by Bolshoi Theatre – 2 December 2026 | Opera
The Bolshoi Theatre makes its first official UAE tour, co-presented by Dubai Opera and Art Seasons, with Rimsky-Korsakov’s acclaimed opera The Tsar’s Bride. Set during the turbulent era of Ivan the Terrible, the production explores passion, intrigue and revenge through the Bolshoi’s celebrated theatrical style.
Symphonic Orchestra Concert by the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra – 3 December 2026 | Symphonic & Chamber Music
As part of the Bolshoi Theatre’s first official five-day UAE tour, its renowned orchestra takes centre stage for a symphonic concert celebrating Russia’s rich orchestral tradition and the artistry of one of the world’s most recognised cultural institutions.
The Nutcracker by Bolshoi Theatre – 4–6 December 2026 | Ballet
Tchaikovsky’s beloved The Nutcracker arrives at Dubai Opera as part of the Bolshoi Theatre’s first official UAE tour. Choreographed by Yuri Grigorovich and performed by the Bolshoi Ballet’s principal dancers and orchestra, the production transforms the timeless Christmas tale into a journey of wonder, ideal love and coming-of-age.
Guy Manoukian – 11 December 2026 | Concert
Celebrating Dubai Opera’s 10th anniversary, acclaimed pianist and composer Guy Manoukian returns for his landmark 10th performance following nine sold-out shows at the venue, blending oriental melodies with contemporary arrangements and reimagined classics.
Denis Matsuev – 16 December 2026 | Concert
World-renowned pianist Denis Matsuev presents Classics & Jazz, combining extraordinary classical virtuosity with vibrant jazz-inspired rhythms alongside an acclaimed ensemble of guest soloists.
Abracadabra – 18–19 December 2026 | Theatre
Two struggling theatre groups attempt to revive their careers by staging a show in an abandoned theatre, only for the production to evolve into an unexpected adventure filled with suspense, humour, twists and the vibrant spirit of Gulf theatre.
JANUARY 2027
Tony Ann – 10 January 2027 | Concert
Acclaimed pianist and composer Tony Ann brings his emotionally rich contemporary piano experience to Dubai Opera, supported by Arkai. With more than one billion views and 300 million streams, Ann has built a global following through viral compositions, acclaimed releases and sold-out international tours.
Swan Lake on Ice – 14–17 January 2027 | Ballet
Tchaikovsky’s timeless masterpiece is reimagined through world-class figure skating by the internationally acclaimed Imperial Ice Stars. Featuring 24 elite skaters, the production combines ballet’s elegance with athleticism, aerial artistry and theatrical spectacle.
A New Decade for Dubai Opera
Across its first ten years, Dubai Opera has provided an important platform for international and regional creativity while growing alongside Dubai’s emergence as a global centre for tourism, business, innovation and the creative industries.
Its programming has brought landmark operas, internationally renowned ballet companies, orchestras, West End and Broadway musicals, global music icons, contemporary productions and unique cultural experiences to Dubai, reflecting the diversity and international character of the city itself.
The 10th anniversary therefore represents more than a celebration of the past. It marks the beginning of Dubai Opera’s next chapter.
As it enters its second decade, Dubai Opera will continue to attract exceptional international artists and productions, embrace diverse forms of artistic expression and create experiences that connect artists, audiences and communities through the shared experience of live performance.
With more than 1.5 million visitors, 2,500 performances and 6,500 artists already part of its story, Dubai Opera enters the next ten years with the ambition that has defined its journey from the beginning: to connect Dubai with the very best of the world’s performing arts and provide a stage where cultures, creativity and audiences come together.
