Tickets now on sale for 'Once Upon A Time in Dubai' – UAE's first homegrown musical spectacle - Middle East Business News and Information
A cultural milestone is set to take centre stage this December as tickets officially go on sale for Once Upon A Time in Dubai , a landmark production being hailed as the region's most ambitious musical to date.
More than just another show, Once Upon A Time in Dubai is poised to redefine the entertainment landscape in the Middle East. Opening at The Agenda in Dubai Media City, the production is the first original large-scale musical fully conceived and created in the UAE, blending Broadway-level storytelling with the rhythm and spirit of one of the world's most dynamic cities.
At the helm is Stéphane Boukris, a visionary entrepreneur and cultural innovator, who has brought together an international ensemble of creatives and performers to craft a narrative rooted in ambition, diversity, and transformation — hallmarks of modern Dubai. The production is co-produced by Universal Music Group MENA, further underscoring its global scale and sonic prowess.
'This show is a tribute to everything Dubai represents: ambition, diversity, and the power to build your own destiny,' says Boukris. 'We are creating something people will never forget.' An All-Star Team of Global Talent
Behind the curtain is a world-class crew, with credits that include Céline Dion , Disney productions , and Arabs Got Talent . From choreography to lighting, every element has been shaped by specialists working at the top of their craft. Leading the stage direction is Johan Nus, supported by a multicultural team and a cast of rising stars including Amanda Maalouf ( X Factor ) and Joe Woolford ( The Voice UK ). A Story That Reflects a Generation
The plot follows Will, a young English dancer who arrives in Dubai searching for his lost love, Sophia. His journey introduces him to a city teeming with artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers — culminating in a stirring tale of courage, reinvention, and belonging.
The musical features over 20 original songs composed by Nazim Khaled, with early releases like 'Habibi' , 'Stranger in the World' , and 'Think Big' already resonating with audiences across platforms. More Than a Show — A City-Wide Movement
Anticipated to attract over 150,000 spectators across 55 performances, Once Upon A Time in Dubai has already captured the imagination of the city with an immersive campaign spanning multiple sectors. Strategic partnerships with McDonald's, Carrefour MAF, Careem, Accor, Mall of the Emirates, Tilal Al Ghaf, and GEMS Education are amplifying its presence across retail, transport, and hospitality.
From Hala taxis playing the musical's soundtrack, to QR codes in malls and school showcases for aspiring young performers, the show is igniting a cultural movement across Dubai. Tickets & Access
Tickets are available exclusively on Fever, the global ticketing platform. Early access for select partners — including GEMS Education, Muse by Chalhoub, and members of Accor's ALL loyalty programme — saw thousands of seats claimed within days.
Media assets including interviews with the cast, behind-the-scenes footage, and a press kit are available upon request. Limited press passes for opening week are now being issued.
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