From international mega-festivals to homegrown cultural gatherings, the UAE’s music scene has grown rapidly in recent years – especially in Dubai. With world-class venues, diverse crowds, and a steady stream of global artists, music lovers now have more choice than ever when it comes to live events.
This guide covers some of the standout festivals taking place across Dubai and beyond, offering key details on music genres, locations, timing, and what to expect. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to discover a new favourite, we’ve included everything you need to make the most of your festival experience—from apps and accommodation to important local rules.
Best Music Festivals In Dubai 2025
UNTOLD Music Festival
When is it held: November
Music genres: EDM, House, Techno, Hip-Hop, Pop, and more
UNTOLD Festival Dubai made its debut in February 2024, marking the first time the renowned Romanian festival was held outside its hometown of Cluj-Napoca. Hosted at Expo City Dubai, the four-day event ran from 15 to 18 February and attracted thousands of festivalgoers each day.
Backed by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, the festival transformed 170,000 square metres of space into a vibrant world of music, lights, and immersive experiences. It was a bold and visually striking addition to the city’s growing cultural scene.
Over 100 artists performed across five themed stages, including global stars like Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, Ellie Goulding, and G-Eazy. Each stage offered a distinct vibe, from high-energy EDM to house, techno, and nostalgic throwbacks.
Alongside the music, the festival featured a fashion village, interactive art, food from 40+ vendors, and curated alcohol zones. Every corner of Expo City was designed to immerse visitors in UNTOLD’s signature atmosphere.
The event opened with a record-setting moment — Armin van Buuren performing from the top of the Burj Khalifa, turning the world’s tallest building into a giant LED show.
With its Dubai debut, UNTOLD successfully brought its European legacy to the Middle East, establishing itself as one of the region’s most ambitious new music festivals.
Link to more festival info: https://untold.com/
Desert Groove by Groove On The Grass
When is it held: Varies, but was held in February in 2025
Music Genres: Electronic, Indie, Acoustic, Chillout, World Music, and more
Desert Groove by Groove on the Grass is a vibrant music festival held annually in Ras Al Khaimah, set in the stunning natural backdrop of the desert. The 2024 edition took place at The Dunes Desert Resort, creating a unique blend of music, culture, and nature.
The festival spans two days and showcases a diverse lineup of artists from both local and international scenes. It offers a rich mix of genres including electronic, indie, and acoustic performances, appealing to a broad range of music lovers.
Beyond the music, Desert Groove focuses on wellness and creativity. Festival-goers can participate in yoga sessions, meditation workshops, and explore art installations scattered around the venue. This holistic approach gives the event a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere.
Foodies are also well catered for, with a variety of gourmet food trucks and vendors offering delicious options. The festival encourages sustainability and community spirit, making it more than just a music event – it’s a cultural celebration in the heart of the desert.
With its combination of music, wellness, and the unique desert environment, Desert Groove offers an immersive and unforgettable festival experience in the UAE.
Link to more festival info: https://www.instagram.com/grooveonthegrass/?hl=en
Elrow
When is it held: May
Music genres: Techno, House, Tech House, and more
Elrow Dubai 2025 returns on Saturday, May 17, bringing its signature blend of high-energy music and immersive theatrics to Jubilee Park at Expo City Dubai. This year’s theme, “The Rowlympic Games”, promises an electrifying fusion of music, performance, and unbridled creativity.
The festival will feature a stellar lineup of international DJs, including Patrick Topping, Ilario Alicante, Bora Uzer, Franky Rizardo, Kasia, Tini Gessler, Quilliam, and Stasi Sanlin. These artists are set to deliver an unforgettable experience with their dynamic sets.
Attendees can expect a visually stunning environment with elaborate stage designs, confetti showers, and costumed performers, creating an immersive atmosphere that is a hallmark of Elrow events.
The festival is expected to accommodate over 12,000 attendees, making it one of the largest Elrow events in the region.
Tickets are available through Platinumlist and Elrow’s official website. Please note that the event is cashless, and all transactions will be conducted digitally.
Link to more festival info: https://www.elrowdubai.com/
Heat DXB
When is it held: July
Music genres: Pop, Rock, Reggae, Trap, R&B, and more
Beat the Heat DXB is an annual music festival that has quickly become one of Dubai’s most anticipated summer events. Launched in 2022, it was created to bring vibrant live Arabic and international music to the city during the hot months, offering a refreshing indoor concert experience.
The festival spans multiple nights across two weekends in July, held at the spacious Dubai World Trade Centre. It features a diverse lineup of artists spanning genres like pop, rock, reggae, trap, and R&B, showcasing both rising stars and established performers from the Middle East and beyond.
Beat the Heat DXB stands out for its energetic atmosphere and celebration of cultural diversity, blending contemporary sounds with regional music influences. It’s a social and family-friendly event that combines live performances with immersive experiences, making it a highlight of Dubai’s summer calendar.
Link to more festival info: https://www.instagram.com/beattheheatdxb/?hl=en-gb
OFFLIMITS
When is it held: April
Music genres: Pop, Rock, EDM, R&B, Hip-Hop, and more
OFFLIMITS Festival 2025 is set to take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. This groundbreaking event is the first open-format music festival in the UAE and the largest in the Middle East, aiming to celebrate individualism and the power of the collective. The festival embodies values of openness, unity, loyalty, self-worth, and self-determination, introducing a fresh narrative that showcases the boldness and distinctive qualities of its attendees.
The lineup features a diverse mix of international superstars and emerging talents, including Ed Sheeran, OneRepublic, Kaiser Chiefs, ARTBAT, Faithless, Sevdaliza, Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Leony, ALTEGO, Zeyne, DJ Mancha, Anastasis Voukis, Mister Levier, Taya Kruzz, Matt Sochon, Katyleen, Whitley Rucha, Devon Kosoko, That Different DJ, MC Mocho, and Sam Tonic.
Beyond the music, OFFLIMITS offers an immersive experience with interactive art installations, a vibrant food and beverage village, VIP lounges, and a silent disco, ensuring a multifaceted celebration of culture and creativity.
Link to more festival info: https://www.offlimitsfestival.com/
Alcohol Rules At Dubai Music Festivals
When attending music festivals in Dubai and the UAE, it’s important to be aware of the specific alcohol policies at each event. Generally speaking, at special events and festivals, alcohol can be purchased inside the venue from licensed vendors. However, rules about bringing your own alcohol, drinking age limits, and consumption areas can vary.
Always check the official FAQs or guidelines for each individual festival before you attend. Some events may prohibit outside alcohol entirely, while others may have designated areas for drinking. Being informed ahead of time ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Drug Rules At Dubai Music Festivals
The UAE has a strict zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drugs. This applies at all music festivals and events across Dubai and the rest of the country. Possession, use, or trafficking of any illegal substances is a serious offence and can lead to severe legal consequences, including arrest and imprisonment.
Festival-goers should be fully aware that no exceptions are made, and security measures are rigorous. It’s essential to respect local laws and avoid any involvement with drugs to ensure a safe and trouble-free experience.
Accommodation at Dubai Music Festivals
Accommodation options for music festivals in Dubai and across the UAE are plentiful, with most events held near major cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Instead of camping—common at some international festivals—attendees typically stay in hotels, serviced apartments, or short-term rentals and commute to the venue by taxi, rideshare, or shuttle.
If you’re looking for affordable and comfortable places to stay, Zennova Holidays offers a wide selection of accommodation across Dubai at very competitive prices. Whether you’re travelling solo or in a group, they have flexible options to suit all needs and budgets.
It’s also worth checking each festival’s official information to see if on-site accommodation or nearby partner hotels are available, as a few events may offer special arrangements.
To avoid missing out, book early—festivals can drive up demand for local stays quickly.
Apps to Use for Music Festivals in Dubai
Having the right apps can make your festival experience in Dubai smoother and more enjoyable.
Careem and Uber are essential for getting to and from the venue, especially late at night. For buying tickets and keeping up with event details, Platinumlist is the go-to app in the region.
Some major festivals, like UNTOLD, also offer their own dedicated app, which includes schedules, artist info, interactive maps, and real-time updates—perfect for staying organised throughout the event.