OFFLIMITS Music Festival will take over Etihad Park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on Saturday, 4 April 2026, bringing a large-scale outdoor music production to the capital. The venue is located on Yas Drive, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and general enquiries can be directed to Yas Island’s contact line on +971 2 496 8000. The festival runs from day to night, creating an extended live music experience expected to last approximately 8 to 12 hours. Organisers have confirmed that gates will open earlier in the afternoon, with headline performances scheduled after sunset. This is a ticketed event and is open to guests aged 5 and above, making it suitable for families with older children, couples, and groups of friends.
OFFLIMITS returns for its second edition with a format that blends pop, hip-hop, alternative rock, and electronic influences across multiple stages. While the festival concept is international in scale, it is tailored for the UAE audience, especially those seeking a high-energy open-air concert atmosphere. Moreover, the setting at Etihad Park allows for expansive staging, immersive visuals, and large crowd capacity. This is one of the largest open-format music festivals ever hosted in the Middle East. Therefore, demand is expected to be high, particularly for premium categories.
Shakira Headlines a Star-Powered Line-Up
Global icon Shakira leads the 2026 line-up, bringing her multi-award-winning catalogue to Abu Dhabi. Known for stadium-scale performances and dynamic choreography, she is expected to close the night with a high-production set. In addition, the programme features Jonas Brothers, the multi-platinum pop trio, alongside three-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist NE-YO. Furthermore, Biffy Clyro, Myles Smith, KALEO, Scouting for Girls, Toploader, Bayou, YaraMustafa and YAZ add genre diversity across the stages.
The organisers have confirmed that more artists will be announced in the coming weeks. Consequently, fans of different music styles can expect a varied schedule throughout the day. Each act will perform on dedicated stages supported by advanced sound and lighting systems. Line-up is subject to change without notice. However, the scale of confirmed artists already positions this event among the most anticipated concerts in the UAE for 2026.
Festival Experience and Premium Options
General admission allows access to the full festival grounds, food zones, merchandise areas, and all scheduled performances. However, those seeking a more exclusive setting can upgrade to premium experiences such as the Limitless Lounge. This category offers elevated Main Stage views from a private platform. Additionally, guests benefit from priority entry and a custom-designed lounge environment. Limitless Lounge access is strictly 21+ and includes unlimited premium food and beverages.
Guests in this category may also move between the lounge and the Golden Circle area, ensuring prime viewing positions. While pricing varies by category, general admission tickets are expected to start from approximately AED 395, with Golden Circle and lounge packages ranging significantly higher depending on availability. As demand increases closer to the date, prices may also adjust.
Ticketing, Digital Entry and Purchase Rules
All tickets are issued as dynamic digital QR codes through the PLATINUMLIST mobile application. Therefore, attendees must download the app to access entry barcodes. Tickets will be released to the registered account no later than 48 hours before the event. Screenshots of QR codes are not valid, and tickets cannot be transferred to another person.
Each customer may purchase a maximum of 6 tickets per show date. Moreover, the lead purchaser must attend with the group and present valid photo identification matching the booking details. Accepted identification includes original passport, national ID, or driving license. Guests may also be asked to present the payment card used for purchase and the confirmation email.
Age Policy and Entry Requirements
The event operates under an Open Age policy for guests aged 5 and above. However, anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or older. There is a maximum of four minors per adult when entering the venue. Original government-issued ID is mandatory for entry.
Furthermore, re-entry is not permitted once inside the venue. The organiser also reserves the right to refuse entry after the show has started. Guests should arrive early to avoid long queues, especially during peak evening hours when headline acts begin.
What to Expect on Site
Etihad Park will transform into a multi-zone festival space featuring food stalls, beverage stations, official merchandise outlets, and rest areas. Food and drinks will be available for purchase across the grounds. However, outside food and beverages are strictly prohibited unless medically required. In addition, professional cameras with removable lenses are not allowed inside the venue.
Security checks will take place at entry points, and certain items such as drones, large bags, strollers, umbrellas, laser pointers, and any hazardous materials will be confiscated. No re-entry is permitted once you exit the venue. Therefore, attendees should plan accordingly before entering.
Transport, Parking and Arrival Guidance
Yas Island offers multiple parking zones, and organisers will send detailed parking instructions via email closer to the event date. However, heavy traffic is expected on Saturday evening, particularly between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Therefore, arriving earlier in the afternoon is strongly recommended. Those driving from Dubai should allow approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Visitors from Sharjah should plan for up to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Public buses operate routes to Yas Island, and taxis are widely available throughout Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Alternatively, guests may park at Yas Mall and walk or take internal transport connections depending on event arrangements. Limited parking capacity may cause delays during peak arrival and departure times.
Event Duration and Atmosphere
Most attendees typically spend between 8 and 12 hours at the festival. Therefore, comfortable footwear and lightweight clothing are highly recommended. As this is an outdoor event, April weather in Abu Dhabi usually ranges between 24°C and 32°C during the day, with cooler temperatures after sunset. Humidity levels may rise in the evening, so breathable fabrics are advisable.
Moreover, because the festival extends into nighttime hours, guests should prepare for temperature variation. Hydration is essential, especially during daytime performances. Water stations and beverage outlets will be available inside the venue.
Cancellation, Refund and Policy Overview
All ticket sales are final and non-refundable unless the event is officially cancelled. If rescheduled, refund limitations may apply depending on organiser policies. Tickets purchased through unauthorized platforms such as secondary resale sites are invalid for admission. Only tickets purchased through approved agents such as PLATINUMLIST are valid.
If the event is postponed or cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, refund announcements will be made by the organiser. Refunds, if approved, will be issued to the original payment method excluding delivery fees.
Weather Outlook and Practical Reminders
Early April in Abu Dhabi is typically warm and dry, with low rainfall probability. However, organisers will notify ticket holders by email if severe weather conditions require changes. Guests should check their spam folders for updates linked to their ticket account. Since this is a large outdoor event, expect crowd surges before headline acts and at closing time. Make your reservation before it’s too late.
Plan your journey carefully, arrive early to avoid traffic congestion, and consider taxi options for a smoother return after midnight. Ticket prices are approximately stated and may change depending on demand. Tickets can be purchased directly from PLATINUMLIST. As highlighted by the editorial team at www.few.ae, OFFLIMITS 2026 stands out as one of Abu Dhabi’s most significant live music gatherings of the year.