The Middle East continues to position itself as a global entertainment hub, unveiling new venues and high-energy festivals year after year. This year, international artists we know and love are set to take the region’s biggest stages. Here are the live performances worth a spot in your calendar.
Shakira – Amman, Doha, Abu Dhabi & Jeddah
In 2026, Shakira is taking over the Middle East one city at a time. As part of the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran Tour, she is bringing her iconic high notes and show-stopping performance to Jordan’s Ayla Aqaba in Amman on March 28, then to the 974 Stadium in Doha on April 1. She will then go on to headline the Middle East’s largest open-format music festival, OFFLIMITS, in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island on April 4. On April 19, she ended her Middle East tour with a bang, headlining the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix post-race concert in Jeddah.
Christina Aguilera – Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
On April 24, seven-time Grammy Award–winner Christina Aguilera will take the stage at Etihad Arena, one of the Middle East’s premier entertainment venues. Known for her powerful vocals and sharp stage presence, Aguilera is set to deliver a show-stopping performance, bringing pop anthems like Genie in a Bottle, Beautiful, and Fighter to life.
John Legend – QNCC, Doha
Award-winning singer, songwriter, and pianist John Legend will take over Doha’s Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) on April 17. With timeless hits like All of Me, Ordinary People, and Save Room, the global star is set to deliver his Qatari fans won’t forget.
Pitbull – Jeddah Corniche Circuit
American pop sensation Pitbull, aka Mr. Worldwide, has joined the Formula 1 lineup as a headliner for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix’s post-qualifying concerts. Known for turning any event into a full-blown party, the Fireball rapper is taking the race weekend’s excitement to new heights.
Travis Scott – Riyadh Kingdom Arena
As part of Riyadh Season, American rapper Travis Scott is bringing his chart-topping hits to Saudi Arabia at the global Fanatics Flag Football Classic on March 21. Marking the Kingdom’s first-ever edition of the event, the football classic blends elite competition with culture and live entertainment, making Scott’s performance a major highlight of the night.
Big Time Rush – Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
American pop sensation band and former Nickelodeon stars Big Time Rush are set to take over Dubai’s vibrant Coca-Cola Arena as part of their global In Real Life Worldwide tour. On March 26, they’ll deliver a high-energy night of nostalgia and celebration, filled with hits from their iconic series.
HAUSER – Abu Dhabi & Kuwait
The Croatian celloist, Hauser, known for adding his unique touch to beloved classics, is making his way to the Middle East with two performances. Starting with Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena on May 2, then making his way to Kuwait’s Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre (JACC) on May 6.
Kygo – Jeddah Corniche Circuit
The adrenaline-fueled F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is always followed by a lineup of high-energy performances, and this year is no exception. Norwegian musician and DJ Kygo will take the stage for a live performance on April 19, adding another thrilling highlight to the race weekend.
Wu-Tang Clan – Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena has something special for hip-hop fans: a live show by Wu-Tang Clan, one of the most influential names in the genre’s history. On March 22, the venue will come alive with timeless tracks, raw energy, and an unforgettable performance.
From powerful vocals and captivating choreography to heartfelt lyrics and enchanting rhythms, these global artists are set to define the Middle East’s entertainment scene this season while giving their audience in the region the chance to experience their music live.
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