Top 13 New Year’s Eve concerts in the UAE, from Alicia Keys to John Legend and Maroon 5

Pop, RnB, flamenco, Russian balladry, house and dance music are among the sounds you can hear at the numerous New Year’s Eve events taking place across the UAE.

With more shows for December 31 to be announced in coming weeks, expect everything from lavish gala dinners and concerts in some of the country’s most prestigious hotels, to cutting-edge electronic sets in leading clubs.

Here are some ways to ring in 2026, be it in a ballroom or on the dance floor.

Abu Dhabi

1. Alicia Keys at Saadiyat Nights, Abu Dhabi

The US singer-songwriter will return to perform as part of the Saadiyat Nights concert series, this time headlining its first New Year’s Eve show.

It marks the singer's second appearance at the event after a sold-out performance in 2024. The concert comes as she reportedly works on a new album set for release next year, a follow-up to her 2022 record Keys II.

The show is part of a bumper Saadiyat Nights season running until March, featuring upcoming performances by Mariah Carey, Diana Ross and Lewis Capaldi. Expect to hear hits such as Fallin’, If I Ain’t Got You and No One.

Timing and tickets TBC

2. John Legend at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi

John Legend will headline the New Year’s Eve gala at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi. Reuters

The US singer-songwriter and Egot-winner will headline a New Year’s Eve gala on the hotel’s Palace Terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf. The black-tie evening includes a reception, dinner and firework display, followed by the live performance featuring songs such as All of Me and Love Me Now.

Doors open at 8pm, tickets from Dh3,500

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