Where to watch musical theater performances in Abu Dhabi?

Have you ever been swept away by the grandeur of a live orchestra, the captivating voices of talented performers, or the sheer spectacle of a Broadway or West End production bringing a story to life before your very eyes? If you are a fan of musical theater, Abu Dhabi has steadily grown its cultural footprint to offer a diverse range of performances, from international touring shows to local community productions, ensuring that the magic of the stage is within reach. We are here to guide you on where to watch musical theater performances in Abu Dhabi, helping you find your next unforgettable theatrical experience.

Premier Venues for Grand Productions

When it comes to hosting large-scale international musical theater productions, Abu Dhabi boasts world-class venues designed to deliver an exceptional viewing experience. These are the go-to places for major touring shows straight from Broadway or the West End.

• Etihad Arena: Located on Yas Island, Etihad Arena is undoubtedly the leading venue for large-scale musical theater performances in Abu Dhabi. This state-of-the-art indoor arena boasts excellent acoustics and a flexible configuration, making it ideal for hosting major theatrical productions. For example, in June 2025, the spectacular musical MAMMA MIA! is transforming Etihad Arena into a Greek island paradise, bringing all the ABBA magic to life from June 11 to 22. This multi-award-winning show has captivated audiences worldwide for over 25 years. Another highly anticipated production, Beetlejuice, is also scheduled for November 20-29, 2025, at Etihad Arena, promising a ghoulishly good time for audiences. These major productions typically have ticket prices that vary based on seating category and showtime, with an approximate range of AED 125 to AED 950 for a single show. It is worth noting that top-tier seats for popular musicals can command higher prices due to demand. Etihad Arena’s impressive capacity and technical capabilities ensure a memorable experience for both performers and the audience, truly making it a cornerstone for musical theater in the capital.
• Coca-Cola Arena (Dubai): While not in Abu Dhabi, it is important to mention Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. Many major international touring musicals that visit the UAE perform exclusively at this venue due to its larger capacity and production capabilities. Often, Abu Dhabi residents travel to Dubai to catch these shows. Past productions like Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Lion King have all graced the Coca-Cola Arena stage. While it means a short drive, it significantly expands the range of high-profile musical theater options available to those in the UAE. Transportation from Abu Dhabi to Dubai for events is readily available via buses or ride-hailing services.

Cultural Institutions and Theaters

Beyond the massive arenas, several cultural institutions and dedicated theaters in Abu Dhabi offer a more intimate setting for a diverse range of performing arts, including smaller-scale musicals, experimental theater, and local productions.

• The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi (The Red Theater & The Black Box): Located on Saadiyat Island, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi is a vibrant hub for creativity, bringing together artists from around the world to perform alongside local talents. It houses the Red Theater, a prominent cultural venue with a seating capacity of 700, known for hosting a wide variety of performances including music, dance, and theater. Its state-of-the-art technical capabilities ensure top-notch production quality. The Black Box offers a more intimate and flexible space for experimental performances. The Arts Center frequently features interdisciplinary works that blend music and storytelling, offering a unique take on musical theater. For example, in June 2025, “Metro Diaries” is scheduled at The Arts Center, which might incorporate musical elements. Their programming often includes unique collaborations and showcases of diverse cultures, making it a truly enriching experience. Tickets are typically purchased through their official website, and prices vary depending on the performance.
• Cultural Foundation Theatre: The Cultural Foundation in downtown Abu Dhabi is a historic landmark that has been revitalized into a contemporary cultural hub. Its renovated 900-seat theater is a significant platform for performing arts, including local and regional musical productions, classical music concerts, and theatrical performances with musical elements. The Cultural Foundation is committed to nurturing heritage and the arts in the UAE, and its programming reflects this dedication by showcasing a variety of art forms and encouraging cross-cultural exchanges. They frequently host events that might feature traditional Arab musical storytelling or contemporary performances that blend music and drama. Keeping an eye on the Abu Dhabi Culture website is essential for their upcoming schedules.
• Abu Dhabi National Theatre: This is a long-standing venue in Abu Dhabi used for various stage plays, movies, and exhibitions. While it may not consistently host large-scale international musicals, it often features local productions and plays that incorporate musical elements. It serves as an important platform for local talent and community theater groups. For those interested in supporting the local arts scene and experiencing performances with a strong connection to Emirati culture or regional narratives, this venue can be a valuable resource. Information on their schedule is typically available through local event listings and their official channels.

Community and Amateur Theatre Groups

For a more grassroots experience and to see emerging local talent, exploring community and amateur theater groups can be very rewarding. These groups often put on productions that include musicals, providing a unique charm and direct connection to the local performing arts community.

• Abu Dhabi Choral Group (ADCG): Since 1977, the Abu Dhabi Choral Group (ADCG) has been a cornerstone of the musical theater scene for expatriates and locals alike in Abu Dhabi. This four-part harmony choir celebrates Broadway musicals and is comprised of men and women from diverse nationalities. ADCG typically presents two major performances each year: a traditionally staged Broadway musical in the spring/summer and a concert-style musical revue in the fall. Recent shows include Spamalot (2023), Little Shop of Horrors (2022), and Footloose (2019). They often rehearse and perform their musicals at the NYUAD Arts Center. As a non-profit organization, they rely on community sponsorship and ticket sales. Attending their shows is not only an enjoyable experience but also a wonderful way to support local performing arts and see passionate individuals bring beloved musicals to life. Their website, https://www.google.com/search?q=abudhabichoralgroup.com, is the best place to find their performance schedule and ticket information.
• The Courtyard Playhouse (Dubai): While based in Dubai, The Courtyard Playhouse is the UAE’s first small theater venue specializing in improvisation and acting workshops. Although their primary focus is on improv and acting, they occasionally host performances or workshops that incorporate musical elements or are presented by groups with musical theater backgrounds. It is a vibrant hub for the performing arts community and can be a good place to network and discover other local groups who might perform musicals.

How to Find Tickets and Stay Updated

Navigating the performing arts scene in Abu Dhabi requires staying informed, as schedules can change and new productions are announced regularly.

• Official Ticketing Platforms: The primary platforms for purchasing tickets for major musical theater performances in Abu Dhabi are Platinumlist.net and Ticketmaster.ae. These websites list upcoming events at venues like Etihad Arena and often provide seat maps and pricing tiers. It is advisable to purchase tickets only from official channels to avoid scams.
• Venue Websites and Social Media: Always check the official websites of Etihad Arena, The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi, and the Cultural Foundation for their updated event calendars. Following their social media accounts is also a great way to receive real-time announcements about new shows, ticket releases, and special promotions.
• Experience Abu Dhabi / Visit Abu Dhabi: The official tourism websites, Experience Abu Dhabi and Visit Abu Dhabi, maintain comprehensive event calendars that include major cultural performances, including musical theater. These are excellent resources for an overview of what is happening in the city.
• Local Media and Lifestyle Publications: Keep an eye on the “Arts & Culture” or “What’s On” sections of local English-language newspapers and magazines like The National, Time Out Abu Dhabi, and What’s On Abu Dhabi. These publications often provide detailed reviews, interviews with performers, and comprehensive listings of upcoming shows.
• Sign Up for Newsletters: Subscribe to newsletters from the venues and ticketing platforms mentioned above. This is an effective way to get direct notifications about pre-sales, exclusive offers, and important announcements.

Watching musical theater in Abu Dhabi offers a rich and diverse experience, from the glitz and glamour of international touring productions to the heartfelt performances of local community groups. By exploring these venues and staying connected with the city’s vibrant arts scene, you are sure to find a show that will transport you to another world. The team at www.few.ae wishes you an enchanting time at the theater!