Dubai Comedy Festival 2024: Nine New Multilingual Shows Added to Star-Studded October Line-Up
Dubai’s 2024 Comedy Festival is set to run from October 9 to 18, adding nine fresh acts to an already star‑filled roster. The new shows bring a mix of Arabic, French, English and South African humor, featuring comedians such as Imad Kehdy, Bash with Tash, and Nino Arial. Tickets are sold through Pl…
The Dubai Comedy Festival, scheduled for October 9‑18, 2024, has just expanded its program with nine new performances that promise to broaden the festival’s linguistic and cultural reach. The addition comes after a successful run of headline acts such as Mo Gilligan, Vir Das, and Katherine Ryan, and it underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of comedic voices from around the world.
New Acts and Their Unique Voices
Imad Kehdy, a Lebanese stand‑up comic who has recently become a father, will take the stage on October 12 at the New Covent Garden Theatre. Kehdy’s material spans his personal journey across borders and the everyday humor he finds in family life. The show is expected to resonate with audiences who appreciate humor that blends cultural nuance with universal themes.
On October 11, the Arabic‑speaking duo Hadeel Marei and Maha Jaafar will perform at Pepperoni Comedy Club. Their act focuses on clever conversations and social observations, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary Middle Eastern life. Their chemistry and timing have already earned them a loyal following in the region.
French‑speaking comedian Nino Arial will return to the New Covent Garden Theatre on October 18. Known for his YouTube presence and acting work, Arial brings a relatable, everyday‑life humor that appeals to both French‑speaking audiences and those who enjoy observational comedy in a lighter, more casual tone.
South African comedians Darren Maule, Celeste Ntuli, Vafa Naraghi and the duo Bash with Tash will headline a show on October 18 at the New Covent Garden Theatre. Their performance will showcase the rich tapestry of South African comedy, blending cultural references with universal themes of identity and belonging.
Other new additions include a trio of Lebanese comics—Mario Bassil, Chadi Maroun, and Aline Ahmar—who will perform a nostalgic, Arabic‑language session on October 14. Their set promises a blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling that reflects the shared experiences of the Lebanese diaspora.
On October 17, English‑speaking comedian Daniel Fernandez will take the stage at Pepperoni Comedy Club with a show titled “Do You Know Who I Am?” The performance explores the challenges of growing up in a multicultural environment, offering sharp wit and relatable anecdotes.
Additionally, the festival will host a special event on October 17 at Pepperoni Comedy Club, featuring international star Redouane Bougheraba, French comedian Nino Arial, and local talents Abz Ali and Noha Bashir. This night celebrates the first anniversary of the UAE’s first official comedy club, Pepperoni, and promises a blend of humor styles and cultural references.
John Achkar, a Lebanese comedian known for his Arabic stand‑up, will perform a second show of his latest special “Feena Nehke” on October 18 at Dubai Opera. The performance will offer a deeper dive into Achkar’s unique comedic style, which blends personal storytelling with sharp social commentary.
Ticketing and Venue Details
Tickets for all shows, including the new additions, are available through Platinumlist. The festival will take place across several venues in Dubai, including Pepperoni Comedy Club, New Covent Garden Theatre and Dubai Opera. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere that complements the diverse comedic acts scheduled for the week.
What to Expect from the Festival’s Expanded Lineup
The addition of nine new shows expands the festival’s linguistic diversity, bringing Arabic, French, English and South African comedy to the forefront. Attendees can expect a blend of observational humor, cultural commentary, and personal storytelling that reflects the multicultural fabric of Dubai and the broader global community.
With a lineup that already includes high‑profile comedians such as Mo Gilligan and Katherine Ryan, the festival’s expansion signals its ambition to become a premier destination for comedy lovers worldwide. The new acts are set to attract both local audiences and international visitors, ensuring a vibrant, inclusive experience for all attendees.
As the festival approaches, fans can look forward to a week of laughter, cultural exchange and memorable performances that celebrate the universal language of humor.
Next Steps and Final Thoughts
Tickets are on sale now, and interested parties are encouraged to book early due to the high demand for popular shows. The festival’s organizers have emphasized the importance of supporting local talent while also providing a platform for international comedians. The expanded lineup reflects this dual focus, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for everyone in attendance.
For more information, fans can visit the official festival website or follow the event’s social media channels for updates on schedules, ticket availability and special promotions.
Why it matters
The festival’s expansion highlights Dubai’s growing role as a cultural hub, offering audiences access to a wide range of comedic voices and fostering cross‑cultural dialogue through humor.
Key points
- Nine new shows added to the 2024 Dubai Comedy Festival
- Imad Kehdy and Bash with Tash join the lineup
- Shows feature Arabic, French, English and South African comedians
- Tickets available via Platinumlist across multiple venues
- Festival runs Oct 9‑18, 2024 in Dubai
Frequently asked questions
When does the Dubai Comedy Festival 2024 take place?
The festival runs from October 9 to October 18, 2024.
Where can I buy tickets for the festival?
Tickets are sold through Platinumlist and can be purchased online.
What new acts are added to the festival lineup?
New acts include Imad Kehdy, Bash with Tash, Nino Arial, and several others across various venues.
