Ballet and opera
American Ballet Theatre performs at Emirates Palace on 20 November according to The National, from AED 125, though the Abu Dhabi Festival listing gives 21 November, so check your ticket. Verdi's Opera Gala is at Emirates Palace on 29 November, from AED 125, and the festival names the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra for the gala.
The Bolshoi Theatre brings The Tsar's Bride on 2 December and The Nutcracker on 4, 5 and 6 December to Dubai Opera. Andrea Bocelli plays Etihad Arena on 2 December with his Romanza programme.
Recitals
At NYU Abu Dhabi, the violinist Lisa Batiashvili with the pianist Giorgi Gigashvili plays on 10 December and the pianist Minsoo Sohn on 11 December, both from AED 150. Denis Matsuev plays Dubai Opera on 16 December, from AED 350.
Crossover and film music
Hans Zimmer plays Etihad Arena on 13 November. The Harry Potter film concert puts the film on screen with a live orchestra on 5 and 6 February, from AED 120, and Ministry of Sound Classical plays dance music with an orchestra on 7 November.
Events in this guide
American Ballet Theatre at Emirates Palace
Verdi's Opera Gala
Bolshoi Theatre at Dubai Opera
Lisa Batiashvili and Giorgi Gigashvili
Minsoo Sohn
Denis Matsuev
FAQ
When does the Bolshoi play in Dubai?+
The Tsar's Bride on 2 December and The Nutcracker on 4, 5 and 6 December 2026, at Dubai Opera.
What is the cheapest classical ticket?+
The National's round-up prints AED 125 for American Ballet Theatre and Verdi's Opera Gala. Prices change.
Where can I hear a piano recital?+
NYU Abu Dhabi (Minsoo Sohn, 11 December) and Dubai Opera (Denis Matsuev, 16 December).