Entertainment
Wireless Festival Middle East 2024: A Celebration of Global Talent at Etihad Park
The Wireless Festival Middle East 2024 at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Park faced an uphill battle after last-minute cancellations by major headliners threatened to overshadow the event. The enthusiastic audiences helped smooth over a rocky lead-up. The turbulence began weeks before the event when SZA, originally slated as the headliner, cancelled her performance along with the rest of her tour. This setback forced organisers to secure a replacement in the form of US rapper Playboi Carti. However, just hours before the gates opened, Carti also withdrew, with Live Nation Middle East attributing the decision to the artist’s “unfortunate and last-minute” choice.
Adding to the disruption, Punjabi hip-hop star Karan Aujla and American rapper Flo Milli also pulled out just days before the festival. Their slots were quickly filled by Saweetie and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie. Despite these challenges, the show went on, with fans rallying to celebrate a dynamic mix of international and regional talent.
However, the festival’s diverse lineup and the energy of its performers ultimately created an unforgettable evening, showcasing the global breadth and depth of hip-hop talent. From seasoned international superstars to emerging regional voices, the event delivered a vivid tapestry of music that resonated with the eclectic audience.
21 Savage Brings It Home
The night’s highlight came from 21 Savage, who stepped into the headlining slot with a commanding performance that balanced cool professionalism with raw energy. The rapper delivered a minimalist yet impactful set, leaning on his decade-long catalog of hits. Tracks like On BS and Red Opps showcased his signature staccato delivery and brooding beats, while collaborations like Rockstar with Post Malone and Creepin with The Weeknd underscored his versatility as one of hip-hop’s most in-demand collaborators.
Saweetie and Fridayy Keep the Momentum Alive
Among the global acts, US rapper Saweetie proved her star power with hits like Best Friend, which showcased her playful charisma, and her tropical-infused single Nani, hinting at a promising debut album on the horizon. Meanwhile, Haitian-American artist Fridayy brought soulful versatility to the stage, seamlessly transitioning from trap beats to 90s-inspired R&B. Tracks like When It Comes to You and Forever left the audience eager for his next album, set to release next year.
Vibrant Regional and Desi Talent
Adding a unique flavor to the event was the festival’s celebration of South Asian hip-hop and regional talent. Delhi-based rap duo Seedhe Maut commanded attention with their high-octane performance, blending sharp bars, clever references, and unrelenting energy. As reigning stars of the Indian hip-hop scene, they brought a raw, authentic vibe to the festival, thrilling the audience with their bold lyricism and electrifying stage presence.
Pakistani rapper Faris Shafi added a dose of fun and cultural pride to the evening. Known for his witty wordplay and sharp commentary, Shafi’s performance was a seamless blend of modern rap flows and renditions of traditional folk tunes, creating a dynamic set that had the crowd both laughing and reflecting. His ability to merge meaningful lyrics with a playful delivery made him a standout act, showcasing the growing influence of South Asian artists on the global hip-hop stage.
Mixed Performances and Regional Representation
Not all performances hit the mark, however. Homixide Gang, part of Playboi Carti’s Opium collective, fell short with a chaotic set that prioritised volume over coherence. Despite the power of tracks like Sharp Shooter, their delivery lacked finesse, leaving much to be desired.
On the second stage, regional acts shone brightly. Egypt’s Afroto delivered an electrifying performance, blending mahraganat-inspired autotune with pulsating beats on tracks like Tege Goal and Brazil. Meanwhile, Moroccan-American rapper Dina Ayada captivated the crowd with her precision and charisma. Fresh off a performance at Rolling Loud Thailand, Ayada’s tracks like Starlight and 100 Bands underscored her potential as a breakout artist in the US.
Challenges Met with Creativity
Despite the setbacks of last-minute changes, Wireless Festival Middle East 2024 retained its reputation as a global platform for hip-hop’s rising stars. By spotlighting artists from different cultural backgrounds and genres, the festival underscored its commitment to diversity and inclusivity in the music industry. While this year’s execution faced hurdles, the range of talent and the passion of the performers ensured that the festival remained a dynamic and celebratory event, setting the stage for a stronger return in 2025.
Emirates Dubai 7s is returning to The Sevens Stadium from November 27 to 29, with tickets now on sale for the three-day sports and entertainment festival.
The 2026 edition will bring together international rugby, amateur sports, live music and family entertainment, with organisers promising a bigger programme than previous years.
The festival attracted more than 88,000 visitors in 2025 and will again take place during the final weekend of the Dubai Fitness Challenge.
Ticket prices
Ticket prices for General Admission and Hospitality have stayed the same for a third consecutive year.
Three-day General Admission tickets cost Dh595 per person, while the three-day Family Pass is Dh1,136 for two adults and two children.
Other ticket options
- Group pass: Dh446 per person for four or more adults
- Saturday or Sunday: Dh455
- Friday: Dh75
- Under 15s: Free
- People of Determination + carer: Dh375
Tickets can be purchased through the Emirates Dubai 7s website and app.
Bigger family attractions
Family entertainment will get a major boost this year as the UAE celebrates the Year of the Family.
The festival will feature its biggest-ever Kids’ Zone, including the UAE’s largest inflatable kids’ zone, along with a Ferris wheel and zipline. More attractions are expected to be announced ahead of the event.
Six sports and top rugby action
Alongside elite rugby, visitors can watch or take part in competitions across six sports — rugby, netball, cricket, WODON3 fitness, Rebound padel and Gaelic Football.
Gaelic Football will join the festival for the first time in 2026.
The Sevens Stadium will also host the opening round of the HSBC SVNS Series 2027, bringing the world’s leading rugby sevens players to Dubai.
The WODON3 Elite final will take place on Pitch 1 between HSBC SVNS matches, with competitors potentially performing in front of crowds of up to 20,000.
Music all weekend
Live entertainment will run throughout the festival, with local and international artists performing across three days.
Last year’s line-up included Tinie Tempah, Sean Paul and Fisher, while the 2026 headline acts will be announced later.
For a premium experience, The Sunroom returns with all-inclusive food and drinks, shaded seating, prime sporting views and dedicated access. Packages start from Dh1,925 per person.
With sport, music and family attractions packed into one weekend, Emirates Dubai 7s is gearing up for another big Dubai event.
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