Arab artists are making waves far beyond the region — and Times Square is taking note. Here’s a rundown of the Arab hitmakers who’ve landed a spot on one of the world’s most iconic billboards.
Nancy Ajram
Lebanese pop icon Nancy Ajram just got her second Times Square moment as Spotify’s EQUAL Arabia ambassador for July 2025, celebrating her latest album Nancy 11. She first made history in 2021 as the first Arab female artist featured there.
Perrie
The Egyptian-Moroccan rapper brought Arabic drill to NYC when she appeared in Times Square in 2022 — part of Spotify’s push to spotlight genre-defying Arab talent.
Amr Diab
The OG. Amr Diab was the first Arab artist to grace Times Square with his own billboard back in 2019. No surprise from the Guinness World Record holder for Most World Music Awards wins and regional music trailblazer.
Elyanna
In 2024, Palestinian-Chilean rising star Elyanna lit up Times Square through Spotify’s EQUAL campaign. Her viral hit Ganeni — a dreamy blend of Arabic lyrics and global pop — made her one of the most exciting names in alt-Arabic music right now.
Assala
Assala’s face hit Times Square in 2024, marking her album Thumma Ana and her status as a powerhouse of pan-Arab vocals.
Mohamed Ramadan
Mohamed Ramadan lit up Times Square more than once— his first time was in 2020 with his single “Tik Tok”.
Recently, he went up again in Times Square with ARABI, his global track with Future and Massari. Whether it’s rap, pop, or Afrobeat fusions, Ramadan’s signature bravado has made him a fixture on the global music scene.
Dana Salah
Palestinian-Jordanian singer Dana Salah brought a bold fusion of Arabic, Latin, and Western beats to NYC in 2022. A moment for indie Arab pop.
Amir Eid
In 2024, Amir Eid — the frontman of Egyptian rock band Cairokee — made his solo Times Square debut with Roxi, his first EP. The five-track project (including Hagat Gowaya, Esmek Eah, and El Donia Hoss) unfolded across three cinematic chapters, blending music and visuals into an emotional love story.
Arab artists are taking over. From solo debuts to genre-blending hits, these Times Square moments aren’t just billboards. Each one signals a shift in how the world listens to, sees, and celebrates Arab music.
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