The live events calendar of Abu Dhabi has just won one major. Cirque du Soleil will also present its masterpiece Corteo to the capital in June, where Etihad Arena hosts its shows from 12 to 21 June 2026.
Cirque du Soleil Corteo Lands In Abu Dhabi 2026
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It is not a typical touring show. A report by the Gulf News also indicated that the Abu Dhabi run will become the biggest Cirque du Soleil production ever held in the city.
Corteo first premiered in 2005. It has since travelled over 150 cities, visiting over 12 million crowds around the globe. It has performed in classic stages likethe Royal Albert Hall, O2 arena and Accor Arena.
The show, which has been running worldwide consecutively in 21 years, now has its last chapter. That further makes the Abu Dhabi dates even more special. It may be among the final opportunities to watch it in life.
What Makes Corteo Different
Corteo is a play that is enacted within the mind of a clown who imagines his own funeral as a party procession. Yes, you read that right. It sounds unusual. On stage, it feels magical.
The performance is a combination of live music, acrobats and comedy. It is performed by a 117-member international cast and crew and features musicians performing as the performance goes on.
Expect flying chandeliers, actors jumping on beds suspended in the air. You can even expect some points that will make you laugh and some that will make you stare so much and ask how that even could happen.
Rare Two-Sided Stage in Abu Dhabi.
In the case of its Yas Island operations, Corteo will be operating on a rare two-sided arena arrangement. The stage will be located at the centre of the Etihad Arena. The audiences will be opposing each other.
Such an arrangement makes all the difference. You do not simply observe the performers. The crowd on the other side can also be seen reacting. It builds a communal experience, which is breathing and here and now.
The stage is framed with hand-painted curtains based on the European theatre traditions. The design feels classic yet daring.
Also Read: 8 Best Things To Do In Abu Dhabi This February Worth Planning For
Dates and Timings of Shows And Ticket Prices.
The show lasts about two hours and ten minutes. The first act takes 55 minutes, and a 25-minute intermission. The second act takes 50 minutes.
As long as you love live entertainment of international standards, this is one that should be added to your calendar. Corteo is not just a circus, it is theatres, music and sports geniuses combined into a memorable evening in Abu Dhabi.
Key June dates include:
Friday, 12 June 7 pm and 8 pm
Saturday, 13 June: 2 pm and 8 pm
Sunday, 14 June: 2 pm and 7 pm
Friday, 19 June: 8 pm
Saturday, 20 June: 2 pm and 8 pm
Sunday, 21 June: 2 pm and 7 pm
Prices of tickets are AED 150, and they can be purchased via Etihad Arena and Platinumlist.
Cover Image Courtesy: Cirque du Soleil Corteo/FB
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First Published: February 13, 2026 12:06 PM