These are the Broadway and West End shows to book now.

The UAE’s theatre scene is flourishing. It began with the arrival of Hamilton at Etihad Arena, and now culture vultures across the country can’t get enough of musicals, performances and productions. From Broadway breakouts like Mary Poppins to West End sensations like Cats The Musical, these are the top UAE theatre shows to see this year.

Mary Poppins The Musical: 25 March to 15 April 2026

Mary Poppins The Musical will be held at Etihad Arena from 25 March to 15 April, bringing a total of 26 performances to the capital. For anyone new to the story, Mary Poppins originated in the 1930s with P. L. Travers’ much-loved books. The tale later became a global phenomenon through Disney’s 1964 film starring Julie Andrews and went on to captivate theatre goers as a marvellous musical. The stage version is known for its crisp choreography, inventive sets, and a songbook that invites pure nostalgia. It also brings a warm dose of family-friendly spectacle that resonates with all ages. Prepare for a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious time.

GO: Visit http://platinumlist.net for more information.

Cats The Musical: 14 to 24 May 2026

Cats The Musical will debut in Abu Dhabi at Etihad Arena, Yas Island. Arguably, one of the biggest shows in theatre history, Cats will feature the magical score composed by the iconic Andrew Lloyd Webber, paired with a magnificent set, beautifully designed costumes and electric choreography. Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the original London production opened in 1981 at the New London Theatre, before transferring to Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre in 1982. Since its world premiere, CATS has travelled to over 30 countries, been translated into 15 languages, and has been seen by more than 73 million people worldwide.

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Rumi: The Musical: 4 to 7 June 2026

From creators Dana Al Fardan and Nadim Naaman, Rumi: The Musical tells the story of the 13th-century poet’s transformative bond with Shams Tabrizi. Blending Middle Eastern and classical influences, the score brings Rumi’s verses to life in a celebration of faith, friendship, and self-discovery.

GO: Visit http://platinumlist.net for more information.

Cirque du Soleil Corteo: 12 to 21 June 2026

Yas Island’s summer calendar is about to get a serious dose of spectacle. Cirque du Soleil will bring Corteo to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, from 12 to 21 June 2026, giving audiences in the capital the chance to experience one of the company’s most celebrated productions for the first time. A longtime fan favourite, Corteo blends Cirque du Soleil’s hallmark acrobatics, live music, comedy and theatrical wonder into a dreamlike parade of scenes. At its heart sits a whimsical idea: the world as imagined by a clown, where humour and emotion meet in a vivid theatrical procession. Adding to the sense of occasion, Corteo will be presented in a rare two-sided arena format, with the stage positioned at the centre of Etihad Arena and audiences seated facing one another. The Abu Dhabi production marks the show’s final chapter after a 21-year global journey.

GO: Visit https://platinumlist.net for more information.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: 28 August to 6 September 2026

Roald Dahl’s scrumdiddlyumptious world is heading to the UAE capital as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory makes its Abu Dhabi debut at Etihad Arena. Based on Dahl’s globally adored novel, the story follows young Charlie Bucket after he wins a coveted golden ticket to step inside Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. Expect a high-energy production filled with immersive visuals, mischievous Oompa-Loompas, eye-catching stagecraft, and a score that blends nostalgia with new musical magic. Iconic songs from the classic 1971 film, including “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” feature alongside original music by Grammy and Tony Award winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray, Mary Poppins Returns).

GO: Visit http://platinumlist.net for more information.