Concerts

Macklemore to Rock the Coca-Cola Arena

Dubai is gearing up for a sensational night of music and energy as Grammy-winning superstar Macklemore is set to take the stage at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena on October 4th. The much-anticipated Macklemore Dubai Show promises to be a dynamic event. Known for his eclectic mix of hip-hop and pop, Macklemore’s performance will captivate fans and newcomers alike. Macklemore to Rock the Coca-Cola Arena.

The Event

Brought to you by Dubai Calendar and presented by All Things Live Middle East, this highly anticipated concert, the Macklemore Dubai Show, is part of Macklemore’s global tour. It showcases his biggest hits and new tracks.

Macklemore: The Artist

Macklemore, whose real name is Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter hailing from Seattle, Washington. He’s set to entertain at the upcoming Macklemore Dubai Show.

He has been active in the music industry since 2000, independently releasing one mixtape, three EPs, and four albums.

Macklemore gained international fame through his collaboration with producer Ryan Lewis, forming the duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis.

Together, they created chart-topping hits and garnered a massive global following.

Chart-Topping Hits

One of Macklemore’s most iconic songs, “Thrift Shop,” catapulted him to fame in 2013, reaching number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. These hits will certainly be highlighted at the Macklemore Dubai Show.

The track, known for its catchy hook and humorous take on thrift shopping, became a cultural phenomenon.

Billboard noted that “Thrift Shop” was the first song since 1994 to top the Hot 100 chart without the backing of a major record label.

This success showcased Macklemore’s ability to break barriers and resonate with audiences on a large scale.

Another major hit, “Can’t Hold Us,” also topped the charts and solidified Macklemore’s position in the music industry.

His lyrics often address important social issues, such as equality and self-expression. This makes his music not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.

Recent Releases

In 2017, Macklemore released “Glorious,” featuring American singer Skylar Grey, as the lead single from his second solo studio album, Gemini. Such tracks are expected to make an appearance during the Macklemore Dubai Show.

The album marked a new chapter in his career. It featured collaborations with various artists and showcased his versatility as a musician.

Tracks like “Marmalade,” featuring Lil Yachty, and “Good Old Days,” featuring Kesha, received widespread acclaim. They added to his growing list of hits.

Live Performances

Macklemore’s live performances are high energy and have an engaging atmosphere. His upcoming show in Dubai promises to continue this trend, making the Macklemore Dubai Show a thrilling spectacle.

Fans can expect a spectacular show in Dubai, with a setlist that includes both his classic hits and newer tracks. The Macklemore Dubai Show is eagerly awaited.

His ability to connect with the audience and deliver a memorable performance makes his concerts a must-attend event for music lovers.

The Venue

The Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai is the perfect venue for an event of this magnitude, such as the Macklemore Dubai Show.

Known for hosting major concerts and entertainment events, the arena offers state-of-the-art facilities. It also provides an electric atmosphere that enhances the concert experience.

Located in City Walk, the venue is easily accessible and surrounded by a variety of dining and entertainment options. This makes it a convenient choice for concert-goers.

Anticipation and Excitement

The announcement of Macklemore’s concert, specifically the Macklemore Dubai Show, has generated significant buzz among fans and the general public.

With his reputation for delivering powerful performances and his impressive catalog of hits, the Macklemore Dubai Show will be one of the highlights of Dubai’s entertainment calendar for 2024.

What to Expect

Concert-goers will have an evening filled with high-energy performances, thought-provoking lyrics, and a vibrant atmosphere. When it comes to events, the Macklemore Dubai Show is the one to attend.

Macklemore’s ability to blend humour, social commentary, and infectious beats ensures that there will be something for everyone at the concert.

Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer to his music, the Macklemore concert, known as the Macklemore Dubai Show, at the Coca-Cola Arena should not be missed.

To purchase tickets, visit Platinum List while they’re available.

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Concerts

Coca-Cola Arena: A World-Class Entertainment Marvel

Coca-Cola Arena: A World-Class Entertainment Marvel is not just a venue; it is a landmark of modern performance architecture in the heart of Dubai. Nestled in the ultra-modern City Walk district, this 17,000-seat indoor arena has changed live entertainment in the UAE. From rock concerts and stand-up comedy to elite sports events and family shows, the Coca-Cola Arena has become the beating heart of Dubai’s event scene.

An Architectural Marvel in City Walk

Located in one of Dubai’s most vibrant urban hubs, Coca-Cola Arena commands attention with its sleek, contemporary facade. What truly sets it apart is its fully integrated LED lighting system—an architectural feat that bathes the surrounding City Walk in dynamic colour, responding in real time to the event inside. Whether it’s a red glow for a rock concert or shimmering blue for an international sports match, the venue becomes a canvas of excitement long before guests walk through its doors.

Designed with state-of-the-art acoustics and temperature control, the arena offers an unparalleled indoor environment. Dubai’s desert heat poses no challenge here—the venue is fully air-conditioned, making it suitable year-round, whether in the peak of summer or during Dubai’s milder winter months.

World-Class Acoustics and Technology

Coca-Cola Arena prides itself on hosting performances that demand perfection in sound and visual experience. The venue’s audio system is engineered to optimise clarity and fidelity across all seating tiers, ensuring that every spectator—from front-row fan to upper-level attendee—experiences pitch-perfect acoustics. High-definition screens, immersive lighting rigs, and an adaptable stage structure make the arena suitable for shows of all genres and scales.

This is not just an arena; it is a multimedia ecosystem that anticipates the demands of the world’s most sophisticated acts. International touring artists, from Maroon 5 to Blackpink, have praised the venue for its technical readiness and hospitality.

Versatility Beyond Concerts

Though concerts remain a staple, the Coca-Cola Arena’s real strength lies in its versatility. With seating configurations that shift from end-stage layouts to central sporting arrangements, the venue can swiftly transform to accommodate:

International basketball and ice hockey matches
Comedy legends like Kevin Hart and Russell Peters
Family entertainment events such as Disney on Ice
Large-scale exhibitions and corporate gatherings

This flexibility ensures that the venue is booked almost year-round, becoming a staple in Dubai’s growing entertainment calendar.

Star-Studded Line-Ups & Global Tours

Since opening in June 2019, Coca-Cola Arena has attracted an impressive roster of international acts. The inaugural show featured Maroon 5, supported by Canadian comedian Russell Peters. In the years since, the venue has hosted:

Demi Lovato – bringing her global tour to a sold-out audience
Simple Minds – delivering a magical performance of their classic hits
Hans Zimmer – offering an amazing orchestral experience
Lewis Capaldi – wowing fans with powerful ballads
Jason Derulo – combining chart-topping tracks with high-energy choreography
Bastille – thrilling indie-pop fans with their signature sound
50 Cent – Brought his charm and skills

Comedy powerhouses like Kevin Hart, Michael McIntyre, and Trevor Noah have also taken the stage, further showing the venue’s diversity.

Looking ahead, Coca-Cola Arena continues to attract international attention. Upcoming acts include:

TJ Monterde (July 2025) and Macy Gray (August)
KOSTCON, a Korean OST concert featuring AP Dhillon and other K-pop performers
Dionela, the Filipino R&B star, performing her “The Grace World Tour” in September 2025

50 Cent concert at Coca Cola Arena in Dubai. Victor Besa / The National

The Binance Blockchain Week 2025

In a bold move, Binance Blockchain Week—the flagship global event of the crypto giant—returns to Coca-Cola Arena on 3–4 December 2025. Drawing around 5,000 delegates from over 126 countries in 2024, BBW24 cemented its reputation at the venue.

For BBW25, expect:

High-profile speakers, including Binance CEO Richard Teng, Rachel Conlan, Noah Perlman, and Jeff Li
A fully immersive, multi-zone experience—lobby activations, networking lounges and main-stage productions, all harnessing the arena’s versatility

Hosting a tech-heavy conference at an entertainment arena showcases its multi-purpose design and technical agility.

binance blockchain week 2025 — Binance Blockchain Week 2025

What Sets the Venue Apart

Versatile Design & Cutting-Edge Tech

Seating capacity: Up to 17,000 across four tiers, with retractable floor seating enabling configurations from intimate to end-stage to centre-stage
LED façade: 4,600 LEDs animate the exterior across City Walk, signalling upcoming events or national celebrations
Built for high-weights: Steel trusses reliably support up to 190 tonnes—ideal for complex stage setups
Accessibility: 17 lifts, 26 escalators, eight artist dressing rooms, 28 wheelchair spaces and 35 F&B outlets

Superior Sound & Comfort

Engineered acoustics provide impeccable sound quality across all configurations. Air-conditioning keeps the cavernous space temperate, even in the height of summer
High-definition screens and adaptive lighting rigs support diverse production needs—from concerts to business events

Hundreds of thousands flock to their big shows — Hundreds of thousands flock to the big shows

Rich Hospitality & Accessibility

Proximity to Dubai Metro (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station), walkable access, ample parking, and connections to City Walk’s dining and retail amenities make it visitor-friendly
Family-focused features like multi-purpose change rooms, child-safe zones, and wrap-up areas for big-name family shows (e.g., Disney on Ice, Peppa Pig) underscore its inclusive design

A Symbol of Dubai’s Entertainment Ambition

Coca-Cola Arena is more than an events venue—it is a physical embodiment of Dubai’s ambition to be the entertainment capital of the Middle East. It blends architectural brilliance with technological prowess, offering experiences that rival or even surpass venues in New York, London, or Singapore.

Backed by Dubai’s commitment to tourism and innovation, Coca-Cola Arena plays a crucial role in drawing international performers, global audiences, and massive media coverage to the city. It is a centrepiece of Dubai’s soft power and cultural diplomacy.

The Future Looks Bright

With a calendar filled with sold-out acts and innovative programming—from K-pop sensations to TED-style thinkfests—the arena’s future looks just as bright as its LED-lit outside. As Dubai continues to expand its event offerings, Coca-Cola Arena will remain a central hub for global entertainment in the UAE.

Check out this year’s show schedules here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai?

The arena can host up to 17,000 people, depending on the event configuration.

Is Coca-Cola Arena suitable for families?

Yes, the venue is highly family-friendly with designated zones, child-safe access, and ample facilities.

What types of events are hosted at Coca-Cola Arena?

The venue hosts concerts, sports, comedy shows, exhibitions, and family entertainment.

Is the arena air-conditioned?

Yes, Coca-Cola Arena is fully air-conditioned and suitable for events year-round.

Concerts

F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to This Year’s Yasalam After-Race Shows

Every year, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix isn’t just the final race on the F1 calendar — it’s the biggest music and entertainment celebration in the region. With the track action at Yas Marina Circuit already promising drama, it’s the F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up that delivers a cultural crescendo each night. The concerts bring some of the world’s biggest artists to Etihad Park for four back-to-back nights of live music. The F1 Abu Dhabi concerts are truly a spectacle to witness.

Updated: 29 June 2025 – New artists added to the rumoured line-up.

In 2025, the Yasalam After-Race Concerts are dialling up the energy. They mix chart-topping pop, iconic rock, and fresh global sounds to close the Formula 1 season with a bang. And the best part? Entry to the concerts is absolutely free with your Grand Prix ticket. This makes the F1 Abu Dhabi music experience accessible to all ticket holders.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s unmissable F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts Line Up. It includes full schedules, artist breakdowns, venue details, ticket access, and insider tips to help you make the most of race week in the UAE.

🎤 Who’s Performing at the F1 Abu Dhabi Concerts 2025?

This year’s line-up is not just impressive — it’s iconic. With a diverse selection of global headliners, Abu Dhabi is hosting one of the most exciting rosters the UAE has ever seen. The F1 Abu Dhabi concerts showcase some of the best talents each night.

Thursday, 4 December 2025: Benson Boone

The opening night of the Yasalam Concerts welcomes Benson Boone, the viral American pop star. He’s built a loyal global fanbase with emotive songwriting and haunting vocals. Known for tracks like “Beautiful Things” and “Ghost Town”, Boone’s live shows are both intimate and powerful. It’s the perfect way to start the weekend.

Expect a heartfelt performance that will set the tone for the four-night music experience. If you’re into atmospheric pop with real soul, this is one to catch during the F1 Abu Dhabi concerts event.

Friday, 5 December 2025: Post Malone

On Friday night, get ready for stadium-sized anthems and a back catalogue packed with hits. Post Malone takes over Etihad Park, contributing to the incredible concerts vibe.

The ever-charismatic Post Malone is a seasoned live performer — known for his energetic sets that balance multiple genres with ease.

Saturday, 6 December 2025: Metallica

Things turn heavier on Saturday night with the arrival of metal royalty. Yes, Metallica are returning to the UAE for the first time in over a decade. The concerts are getting a dose of metal with anthems like “Enter Sandman”, “One”, and “Nothing Else Matters”. This is a bucket-list performance for every rock fan.

Their live shows are intense, powerful, and driven by decades of global acclaim. If you want to experience a night of unforgettable guitar solos, iconic lyrics, and electric atmosphere, you already know where you need to be during the concerts.

Sunday, 7 December 2025: Katy Perry

Closing out the Concerts Line Up 2025 is none other than Katy Perry — the global pop superstar behind “Roar”, “Firework”, “Teenage Dream”, and “Dark Horse”.

Katy’s shows are not just concerts; they’re full-blown spectacles. They are complete with elaborate visuals, costume changes, and euphoric energy. Her closing night set will no doubt be the grand finale that wraps up both the race weekend and the concerts and season in world-class fashion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is performing at the F1 Abu Dhabi concerts in 2025?

The F1 Abu Dhabi 2025 concert lineup includes international stars such as Taylor Swift, Travis Scott, and DJ Snake, among others.

Where are the F1 concerts held in Abu Dhabi?

The concerts are held at the Etihad Park on Yas Island, adjacent to the Yas Marina Circuit.

Do I need a separate ticket for the F1 concerts?

No, F1 Abu Dhabi race ticket holders receive complimentary access to the concerts, but you must register in advance.

What time do the concerts start during the F1 weekend?

Concerts typically begin after the races end, usually around 9 PM each evening.

Are the F1 Abu Dhabi concerts open to all ages?

Yes, the concerts are family-friendly, though minors should be accompanied by an adult.

Concerts

Franz Ferdinand to Bring ‘The Human Fear’ World Tour to Dubai

The UAE is about to welcome one of the UK’s most influential indie rock bands of the 21st century—Franz Ferdinand—as they bring their 2025 world tour, The Human Fear, to Dubai. This highly anticipated Franz Ferdinand Dubai concert marks the spectacular conclusion of their global circuit. Here, the Scottish five-piece will headline Coca-Cola Arena on Tuesday, 13 December 2025. This special performance is set to be a monumental night of music. The setlist promises fresh material alongside classic anthems that defined a generation.

From Glasgow to Global: Franz Ferdinand’s Rise

Formed in Glasgow in 2002, Franz Ferdinand carved out their place in the music scene with a distinctive blend of sharp guitar riffs, post-punk attitude, and dancefloor sensibility. Their eponymous debut album dropped in 2004 and introduced the world to the iconic single “Take Me Out”, which instantly became a staple of the indie rock movement. That record earned the band a Mercury Prize nomination, Brit Awards, Ivor Novello accolades, and Grammy nominations. The anticipation for their Dubai concert is mounting. Indeed, fans expect a setlist filled with hits.

Over the past two decades, Franz Ferdinand have remained a force in modern rock, with a discography that includes hits like “Do You Want To”, “Ulysses”, “No You Girls”, and “Love Illumination”. Their live shows have been described as high-energy, musically tight, and undeniably fun—driven by frontman Alex Kapranos’ charismatic stage presence.

Franz Ferdinand – The Human Fear: A New Era

Their latest album, The Human Fear, marks the band’s sixth studio release and their first in nearly six years. Critics and fans alike have praised it for its lyrical depth, dynamic instrumentation, and return to the dance-rock formula that made them famous. Tracks such as “After The Machines”, “Empty Pulse”, and “Chemical Mirror” explore themes of anxiety, connection, and the complexity of modern life. These tracks are crafted with the sharp melodic instinct fans have come to expect.

Kapranos, speaking on the album during a BBC Radio 6 interview earlier this year, said, “This record was born out of the collective nervous energy we all felt coming out of lockdowns. It’s about fear—but also the thrill of breaking through it.” Anticipation is high for the Franz Ferdinand Dubai concert featuring these new tracks.

Joining Kapranos on this tour are founding bassist Bob Hardy, keyboardist and guitarist Julian Corrie, guitarist Dino Bardot, and drummer Audrey Tait. Together, they form a dynamic five-piece that delivers the band’s new material with fresh energy.

What to Expect from Franz Ferdinand in Dubai

Fans heading to Coca-Cola Arena in December will be treated to a show that spans 20 years of indie rock history. The band’s setlist is expected to include:

New tracks from The Human Fear
Timeless hits like “Take Me Out”, “This Fire”, and “The Fallen”
Fan favourites and deep cuts

The Coca-Cola Arena, located in City Walk, is Dubai’s largest indoor venue and a hotspot for global acts. It has a capacity of 17,000, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and easy accessibility. Thus, it provides the perfect backdrop for this high-energy performance. The Franz Ferdinand Dubai concert reflects the band’s dynamic presence.

Event Information

Artist: Franz Ferdinand
Tour: The Human Fear World Tour
Date: Tuesday, 13 December 2025
Venue: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai
Time: Doors open at 7:00 PM

Ticket Pricing & Access

Tickets for this one-night-only Dubai performance are available online now via official ticketing platforms. Early bird pricing will sell out quickly. Fans should book in advance to secure the best seats.

Expected categories:

General Admission – From AED 195
Gold Floor – From AED 295
VIP Seats – From AED 450

VIP guests can enjoy premium seating, priority entrance, and access to Coca-Cola Arena’s luxury lounges.

The Human Fear Tour is Coming To Dubai Later This Year

Dubai: A Fitting Finale for The Franz Ferdinand ‘Human Fear’ Tour

Dubai’s status as a global entertainment hub has grown rapidly in recent years. The Coca-Cola Arena has played host to stars like Mary J. Blige, Deep Purple, and Lil Baby. Franz Ferdinand’s addition to the roster underscores the emirate’s ability to attract world-class music acts. The Franz Ferdinand Dubai concert is a testament to its allure.

With the backdrop of Dubai’s glittering skyline and the electric atmosphere of a capacity crowd, this promises to be one of the city’s most talked-about concerts of the year.

Whether you’re a longtime fan who remembers dancing to “Do You Want To” in the early 2000s or a new listener discovering their bold new sound, this show is not to be missed.

Franz Ferdinand. Live in Dubai. One night only.

Experience the pulse of indie rock—reimagined for a new era at the Franz Ferdinand Dubai concert.