One of Dubai’s best-loved Arabic indie music nights is back. WASLA Festival returns on 28 November at Jubilee Park, Expo City Dubai, and this year the evening comes with a cause. All proceeds from the 2026 edition will be donated to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to support displaced Arab families.
Who’s Playing?
Leading the bill is Marcel Khalife, the legendary Lebanese composer and oud player, who is also on his 50th anniversary ‘Promises of the Storm’ tour in Europe. He is joined by Le Trio Joubran, the Palestinian oud trio, Syrian duo TootArd, and Abu Dhabi-based singer Fatime, formerly known as FAFA. Between them, the four acts cover Arabic folk, oud-led compositions, desert blues and contemporary soul.
How Did WASLA Begin?
WASLA launched in Dubai in 2017 as an Arabic alternative music festival at a time when independent Arabic music had little room on the UAE’s mainstream live circuit. The early editions put artists from across the Middle East and North Africa on one stage, including Mashrou’ Leila, Souad Massi, Cairokee, 47Soul and Autostrad. The sound has stretched from indie rock and folk to electronic music and regional fusion, and the festival has built a reputation as a platform for the region’s independent scene.
Who Is Behind It?
BRAG in partnership with UNHCR. All proceeds from the evening go to the agency’s work with displaced families, so a ticket also serves as a donation. The name itself means “connection” in Arabic, and this year’s edition leans into that idea by placing solidarity at the centre of the evening.
When Do Doors Open, And What Do Tickets Cost?
According to the ticketing listing on Platinumlist, doors open at 4.30 pm and the show starts at 6 pm, with tickets starting from AED 350. Guests aged three and above must have a valid ticket to enter, and People of Determination must have a valid POD ticket. The organisers will also be filming and photographing the festival, so expect to appear in their media if you attend. Tickets are also listed through TicketsMarche UAE, so check the booking page for the latest categories before you buy.
Also Read: Liwa International Festival Returns To Abu Dhabi With Circus Swing, Tagada & More This December
Why Put It In Your Diary?
With two oud-led acts on the bill and a charitable purpose behind the evening, this looks like one of the more meaningful nights on Dubai’s November calendar. If Arabic music has a place in your playlists, this is one to plan for.
Cover Image Courtesy: WASLA Festival/ Instagram
FAQs
Who is performing at WASLA 2026?
Marcel Khalife headlines, with Le Trio Joubran, TootArd and Abu Dhabi-based singer Fatime.
How much are WASLA 2026 tickets?
The Platinumlist lists tickets from Dh350. Tickets are also available through TicketsMarche UAE, so check the latest categories there.
Where do the proceeds go?
All proceeds are donated to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to support displaced families. The festival is organised by BRAG in partnership with UNHCR.
