Festivals

Rampa & Adam Port at Expo City

The Soho Garden Festival is in full force with the keinemusik family

Expo City Dubai is gearing up to host the latest edition of the Soho Garden Festival, famously titled “The Gateway” with Adam Port and Rampa.

This spectacular event, following its four successful predecessors at Media City, is scheduled to take place on May 17th, promising an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment.

This year’s venue, the aptly named Opportunity Gate, is set to transform into a vibrant hub of activity, offering a perfect backdrop for what promises to be an exhilarating night.

Headlining the festival are Adam Port and Rampa, two titans of the electronic music scene known for their dynamic performances and ability to captivate audiences with their deep and melodic beats.

Fans can look forward to live renditions of popular tracks such as “The Rapture Pt.III,” “Forms of Love,” and “Necessity” among others, ensuring an eclectic mix of sounds that will keep the crowd moving throughout the night.

Tickets for this much-anticipated event are already on sale, with prices starting from Dhs 200.

For those looking to enjoy the festival with a touch of exclusivity, table bookings are also available, providing an ideal option for groups seeking a more personalised experience.

Additionally, the festival will feature a variety of food and beverage kiosks on-site, allowing attendees to indulge in delicious treats and refreshments as they enjoy the performances.

Set against the futuristic skyline of Expo City, “The Gateway” at Soho Garden Festival is poised to be a standout event in Dubai’s cultural calendar, blending world-class music with an unparalleled atmosphere.

Soho Garden Festival with Eric Prydz last year

This is a perfect opportunity for both residents and visitors in the UAE to immerse themselves in a night of artistic brilliance and communal vibe.

Make sure not to miss this event, as it brings together music, gastronomy, and the spirited ambiance of Dubai under one roof.

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Festivals

Desert Beats: How the UAE Became a Music Festival Magnet

The UAE’s music scene has hit a new high, with the region establishing itself as a magnet for globally-renowned music festivals. Over the past six months, the UAE has transformed its desert landscapes into bustling hubs of sound and culture, drawing in artists and fans from around the globe. But why has the UAE become the go-to destination for music festivals? The answer lies in its unique blend of cultural diversity, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a government eager to position the nation as a global entertainment hub. The UAE offers something no other country can match: a seamless fusion of luxury, accessibility, and creativity, set against the backdrop of its iconic desert landscapes and futuristic cities. Here, festivals are not just about music—they’re about creating a multisensory experience that leaves attendees in awe.

How the UAE Became a Music Festival Magnet

Defected Dubai: A House Music Haven

This October, Dubai’s music lovers were treated to a house music utopia with Defected Dubai 2024, a three-day extravaganza spanning warehouse parties, beach vibes, and poolside grooves. Set against the stunning backdrops of JA Resorts and Soul Beach, the festival brought legends like Roger Sanchez and Groove Armada to the decks. Defected’s seamless blend of cutting-edge beats and vibrant atmospheres showcased how the UAE can pull off world-class music festivals that feel intimate yet electric.

How the UAE Became a Music Festival Magnet — Defected Dubai

Butterfly Carnival: A Cultural Melting Pot

November brought something entirely new to the UAE’s festival scene with the debut of the Butterfly Carnival Music Festival. Held at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, the event was a colourful fusion of music, art, and global cuisines. With acts like Major League DJz and DJ Dany Neville leading the charge, the festival’s carnival theme added a unique, immersive experience that set it apart from the typical music event.

Butterfly Carnival

Wireless Festival Middle East: Hip-Hop Takes Centre Stage

November also saw the UAE become the epicentre for hip-hop enthusiasts with the Wireless Festival Middle East. Hosted at Etihad Park on Yas Island, the festival welcomed heavyweight acts like Playboi Carti and 21 Savage. Wireless Middle East marked a major moment for urban music in the region, cementing Abu Dhabi as a must-visit destination for global artists and their fans.

Loaded Festival: A Nostalgic Journey

The Loaded Music Festival, held at Dubai’s iconic Irish Village in November, was a heartfelt nod to the ‘90s. Featuring bands like Stereo MCs, Toploader, and Dodgy, the festival brought together a multi-generational audience for an unforgettable trip down memory lane. This event was proof that Dubai isn’t just about cutting-edge music; it’s also a home for nostalgia and timeless classics.

Loaded Festival

Why the UAE?

What makes the UAE such fertile ground for music festivals? It’s not just the luxury venues and impeccable logistics—though those play a part. The UAE has become a cultural crossroads, blending global influences with local flavours to create experiences that resonate with diverse audiences. From intimate beachside sets to sprawling amphitheatre spectacles, there’s something here for every music lover.

How the UAE Became a Music Festival Magnet

The government’s investment in creative infrastructure, coupled with the country’s vibrant expatriate community, ensures that these festivals cater to eclectic tastes while spotlighting local talent. And then there’s the weather—a balmy desert evening is a perfect stage for music to come alive.

Upcoming Music Festivals in the UAE

What’s Next?

The UAE’s festival calendar shows no signs of slowing down. Events like Ultra Abu Dhabi and EarthSoul Festival are set to keep the momentum going, ensuring that the region remains firmly in the spotlight. Each festival brings its own energy, from electronic anthems to eco-conscious messaging, making it clear that the UAE is not just following global trends—it’s setting them.

How the UAE Became a Music Festival Magnet

A Growing Legacy

For music lovers in the UAE and beyond, the past six months have been nothing short of groundbreaking. Festivals here are more than just performances; they’re cultural celebrations that bridge borders and genres. As the region’s music scene continues to grow, the UAE is solidifying its place on the global stage—one beat, one festival, and one unforgettable moment at a time.

Read more in our online magazine: 😎
https://whatshotinuae.com

Festivals

Animenia Abu Dhabi: A New Frontier for Anime Lovers

Get ready for an extraordinary celebration of anime as Animenia Abu Dhabi arrives from October 23-27, 2024, at Manarat Al Saadiyat. This highly anticipated event promises to be a reimagined anime festival that goes beyond the ordinary anime expo, offering fans a blend of cosplay, immersive experiences, Japanese culture, and community-driven activities. It’s an event where anime enthusiasts of all ages can come together to explore the limitless world of anime.

Whether you’re a lifelong anime fan, a cosplay enthusiast, or someone new to the world of Japanese animation, Animenia Abu Dhabi has something for everyone. Let’s dive into what makes this festival a can’t-miss event for anime lovers across the UAE and beyond.

A Celebration of All Things Anime

At the heart of Animenia lies the celebration of anime, Japanese culture, and the global influence anime has had on pop culture. Over the course of five days, festival-goers will be immersed in an experience that brings the world of anime to life. From full-scale recreations of iconic anime scenes to live J-Pop performances and Tokyo-inspired street food, Animenia is set to transport attendees into the magical world of Nippon.

In addition to the exciting activities, Animenia will pay homage to classic Japanese-influenced Arabic cartoons, bringing a nostalgic touch for fans in the region who grew up watching these beloved animated shows.

Cosplay and Harajuku Fashion Extravaganza

Cosplay, one of the main highlights of any anime festival, takes center stage at Animenia Abu Dhabi. Fans will have the opportunity to dress as their favourite anime characters and showcase their creativity and craftsmanship. Expect to see elaborate costumes, intricate details, and impressive props as cosplayers from across the region and the world gather to celebrate their passion.

For those interested in Japanese street fashion, the festival will also feature daring Harajuku-inspired streetwear. Harajuku is known for its eclectic mix of styles, and Animenia will give attendees a chance to experience this avant-garde fashion scene firsthand.

Immersive Experiences and Activations

What sets Animenia Abu Dhabi apart from other anime festivals is its focus on immersive experiences. Attendees will step into fully recreated anime scenes, where they can interact with the sets and feel like they’ve been transported into their favorite shows. From intricate anime sets to bustling Japanese street markets, these immersive activations will create unforgettable moments for festival-goers.

Additionally, Animenia will offer a variety of Japanese-inspired activations, including interactive workshops where fans can learn about Japanese culture, anime history, and even try their hand at anime-style art. Whether it’s learning about the evolution of anime or engaging in hands-on experiences, there will be no shortage of activities to participate in.

Nippon Adventures Await

The festival offers an array of Nippon adventures that delve into the heart of Japanese culture. Festival-goers can indulge in authentic Tokyo street food, offering a taste of Japan’s vibrant culinary scene right in the heart of Abu Dhabi. From ramen stalls to sushi stands, you’ll have a chance to sample traditional Japanese dishes as you explore the festival grounds.

Musical performances will further elevate the atmosphere, with J-Pop and K-Pop acts set to take the stage. These performances will bring high-energy entertainment to Animenia, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment throughout the five-day event.

Ticket Options and VIP Experiences

To make the most of your Animenia Abu Dhabi experience, several ticket options are available:

Day Pass: Access the festival for a single day of anime-filled fun.

5-Day Festival Pass: Immerse yourself in the full five-day experience and explore everything Animenia has to offer.
Super VIP Pass: Enjoy the ultimate VIP treatment, including exclusive access to special events, priority entry, and more.

Concert General Standing: Get your spot for the music concerts and enjoy live performances by J-Pop artists and more.

Additionally, attendees can enhance their experience with add-ons, including:

Meet & Greets: Meet your favourite anime stars, voice actors, and influencers in person.
Bus Ride from Dubai to Abu Dhabi: Convenient transportation for festival-goers travelling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

Ticket Fees:

Prices include VAT, but additional fees are not included in the listed prices.

The Ultimate Anime Experience in Abu Dhabi

As the UAE’s cultural and entertainment hub, Abu Dhabi has hosted a variety of world-class events, but Animenia Abu Dhabi is set to be the premier anime festival in the region. With its blend of cosplay, immersive experiences, and Japanese cultural influences, this festival promises to be a standout event for anime fans from all walks of life.

The festival’s unique combination of anime celebration, community engagement, and cultural exploration makes it a must-attend event for anyone who loves anime, Japanese culture, and immersive experiences. As the excitement builds toward Animenia, fans from across the UAE and the wider Middle East are counting down the days to October 23.

Prepare to embark on an anime adventure like no other—don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of anime at Manarat Al Saadiyat.

Read more about cool stuff here at What’s Hot in UAE

Festivals

Upcoming Music Festivals in the UAE

The UAE is set to host a series of vibrant music festivals in 2024, attracting global artists and creating unforgettable experiences for music lovers. From EDM to K-Pop, the diverse range of genres promises something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the upcoming music festivals in the UAE.

WATERBOMB Festival (June 7-8, 2024)

One of the most exciting music festivals coming to Dubai is the WATERBOMB Festival, scheduled for June 7-8, 2024, at Dubai Festival City. Originating in South Korea, this festival combines K-Pop, EDM, and an epic water fight, making it a unique multi-sensory experience. The lineup includes global megastars DJ Snake, Nicky Romero, Benny Benassi, and UAE-based DJ Dany Neville. K-Pop and Hip Hop artists such as CL, Big Naughty, PH-1, Jessi, Simon Dominic, Liu, Sorn, 82MAJOR, and tripleS will also perform.

Yasalam After-Race Concerts (December 2024)

The Yasalam After-Race Concerts, held annually during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, are a major highlight for music fans. In December 2024, the Yas Marina Circuit will transform into a hub of entertainment with top international artists performing each night of the race weekend. Past performers have included Beyoncé, The Weeknd, and Guns N’ Roses, so attendees can expect similarly high-caliber acts this year.

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DXB Music Festival (October 2024)

The DXB Music Festival, set for October 2024, will be held at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. Known for its eclectic mix of genres, the festival features a blend of international and regional artists. This year’s lineup is expected to include prominent names in pop, rock, and electronic music, offering a diverse musical experience for attendees.

Abu Dhabi Classics (October 2024 – February 2025)

Abu Dhabi Classics is a prestigious annual festival that brings world-class classical music to the UAE. Running from October 2024 to February 2025, the festival will feature performances by renowned orchestras, soloists, and conductors worldwide. Venues include the Emirates Palace and the Cultural Foundation, providing a grand setting for these exquisite performances.

Sandstorm Electronic Music Festival (September 2024)

The Sandstorm Electronic Music Festival, taking place in September 2024 at the Al Mamzar Beach Park in Dubai, is a must-attend for EDM enthusiasts. The festival will showcase a lineup of top DJs and electronic artists, with spectacular light shows and pyrotechnics. Previous editions have featured artists like Armin van Buuren and Martin Garrix, and the upcoming festival promises to deliver an equally thrilling experience.

Sharjah World Music Festival (January 2025)

Scheduled for January 2025, the Sharjah World Music Festival celebrates global music traditions. Hosted at various venues across Sharjah, including the Al Majaz Waterfront and the Heart of Sharjah, the festival features performances by artists from diverse cultural backgrounds. This event offers a rich tapestry of sounds, from classical and jazz to traditional folk music.

Dubai Jazz Festival (February 2025)

The Dubai Jazz Festival, returning in February 2025, is one of the UAE’s most beloved music events. Held at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, the festival attracts jazz enthusiasts and features performances by world-renowned jazz artists and bands. The festival’s eclectic mix also includes blues, soul, and funk, ensuring a wide appeal.

Abu Dhabi Festival (March 2025)

The Abu Dhabi Festival, held in March 2025, is the UAE’s largest cultural event, celebrating music, art, and dance. The festival’s music program includes a series of concerts by international orchestras, chamber ensembles, and soloists. Venues such as the Emirates Palace and the Manarat Al Saadiyat host these grand performances.

Dubai Desert Rock Festival (April 2025)

Rock fans should mark their calendars for April 2025, when the Dubai Desert Rock Festival returns. Known for its high-energy performances, the festival features a lineup of rock and metal bands from around the world. The Dubai Autodrome will serve as the venue, providing ample space for headbanging and mosh pits.

Beats on the Beach (November 2024)

Beats on the Beach, part of the Yasalam After-Race Concerts, offers free live music on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Beach. Scheduled for November 2024, this event features a mix of international and local artists performing across various genres. It’s a family-friendly event that attracts thousands of music lovers each year.