Big costumes, bigger numbers, and plenty of show-stopping moments
If you love musicals and live in the UAE, the coming theatre season is bringing a strong line-up of West End and Broadway favourites to stages across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
ABU DHABI
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
When: August 28 to September 6, 2026
Where: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
Sweet news, musical fans! Roald Dahl’s wonderfully whimsical world is heading to the capital in August. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is making its debut at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, from August 28 to September 6, 2026. The musical is based on Roald Dahl’s iconic novel and follows a young Charlie Bucket as he wins the ultimate prize: a golden ticket into the mysterious chocolate factory of the eccentric Willy Wonka. If you’re a fan of the 1971 film, the musical features beloved songs including Pure Imagination, The Candy Man, and I’ve Got a Golden Ticket, alongside original music by Grammy and Tony Award winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the creative duo behind Hairspray and Mary Poppins Returns. The much-loved musical is on a global tour where it has sold-out performances, so it’s one you don’t want to skip.
Tickets are on sale with prices starting from Dhs130. Purchase your seat here.
CATS The Musical
When: June 4 to 13, 2027
Where: Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi
It’s one of the most anticipated musicals in the UAE, and fans have been eagerly waiting since CATS the Musical was first announced in December 2025, with original dates set for May 14 to 24, 2026. However, following regional disruptions that led to the cancellation of several shows across the country, CATS the Musical was affected as well. The good news? The production hasn’t been cancelled — it’s simply been postponed to 2027. It is a long wait, but it does give you something to look forward to.
CATS is one of the world’s most iconic musicals, and audience members can expect an unforgettable night of music, dance and a touch of feline mischief. Think tap-dancing paws, glittering costumes and show-stopping choreography that has kept crowds spellbound for more than 40 years. The show has travelled to over 30 countries, been translated into 15 languages, and been seen by more than 73 million people. And you need to be a part of the future stats.
Ticket prices start from Dhs90. Purchase your seat here.
DUBAI
Chicago
The longest-running American musical in Broadway and West End history, Chicago returns to Dubai for a five-day run from December 16 to 20, making it the perfect pre-Christmas musical treat. Chicago has become one of the most renowned musicals of all time, known for its electrifying choreography, timeless music, and gripping story of fame, fortune… and all… that jazz. Set in the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, the musical follows Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her lover after he threatens to leave. To avoid conviction, she manipulates the public, the media, and her cellmate Velma Kelly, enlisting Chicago’s slickest lawyer to turn her crime into a media sensation.
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