May in Dubai is putting on a show
Looking to catch some performances in Dubai? The stages are in full swing this May, with a packed lineup of performances across the city. From ballet and theatre to live music, comedy and cultural showcases, there’s something for every mood once the sun goes down. Whether you’re planning a midweek outing or a weekend night out, these are the shows worth adding to your calendar.
Here are the best shows, concerts and performances in Dubai this May
Sharmila Dance Extravaganza
When: Friday, May 1 to 3
Where: New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates.
The Sharmila Dance Extravaganza returns in 2026 for its landmark 25th anniversary, marking a major milestone for the annual showcase by Sharmila Dance. Bringing together performers of all ages, from emerging young talent to seasoned dancers, the show promises a vibrant mix of styles, dazzling costumes and powerful group performances that highlight the depth of local talent on stage. Expect an evening of energy, precision and pure spectacle.
Ticket prices start from just Dhs150 per show.
Make your purchase here.
Robin Schulz
When: May 2, 2026
Where: Bohemia Beach Club, FIVE Palm Jumeirah
Global hitmaker Robin Schulz returns to Dubai with his signature blend of house and pop. With more than 12 billion streams and a catalogue of era-defining tracks, expect a feel-good soundtrack packed with recognisable anthems, including his chart-topping hit Sugar. Fresh from an international tour, he’ll take to the decks from sunset, bringing his unmistakable sound to the shores of FIVE Palm Jumeirah. Joined by Maori and Laureano, the night builds from golden hour into full dancefloor euphoria. Read more here.
Prices from Dhs100 (dance floor).
Make your purchase here.
Short+Sweet Theatre Dubai
When: Until Saturday, May 23, 2026 (weekends)
Where: New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates.
Why settle for one performance when you can get several performances in Dubai on just one night. This theatre festival features plays that are just 10 minutes long, and the unique stories are all put together by local actors, directors and screenwriters. Now in its 14th year, the festival remains a firm favourite with theatre fans across Dubai. The concept: local theatre groups battle it out on stage to see which 10-minute play wins over the audience. Each weekend, a selection of 10-minute plays is performed and then the audience votes for their favourite play each week, with the top-scoring entries moving forward to the Red Carpet Gala Final on May 23.
It’s Dhs100 per day (for general admission) and you will be treated to 10 plays per night.
Make your purchase here.
<h3″>Lost Frequencies
When: May 9, 2026
Where: Bohemia Beach Club, FIVE Palm Jumeirah
Returning after a sold-out show earlier this season, Lost Frequencies is back in Dubai this Saturday, May 9. Known for hits like Are You With Me and Black Friday, the Belgian DJ brings his signature melodic house sound to Bohemia Beach Club, soundtracking everything from laidback sunset moments to late-night highs. Expect uplifting beats and feel-good energy from start to finish. Joined by Maori and Sam Oui, the night flows against a backdrop of sea views and the Dubai skyline. Read more here.
Prices from Dhs100 (dance floor).
Make your purchase here.
Carl Cox
When: May 9, 2026
Where: Playa Pacha, FIVE LUXE JBR
Dust off your dancing shoes: Carl Cox returns to close the season at Pacha ICONS, Playa Pacha at FIVE LUXE JBR. Expect pure Ibiza energy as the open-air stage comes alive for a powerful closing set. A defining force in electronic music, he’s known for his technical precision, immersive production and unmatched connection with the crowd.
Prices from Dhs200.
Make your purchase here.
Swedish House Mafia
When: May 16, 2026
Where: Ushuaia, Dubai Marina
Swedish House Mafia – Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso – headline the final show of the Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience season. Formed in Stockholm, the trio quickly rose to become one of the most influential names in modern electronic music, earning GRAMMY nominations and selling out arenas and festival stages around the world.
Tickets from Dhs250.
Make your purchase here.
Svetlana Zakharova – Gabrielle Chanel Ballet
Photo credit: Dubai Opera
When: May 17, 2026
Where: Dubai Opera
Internationally renowned ballerina Svetlana Zakharova returns to Dubai for a one-night-only performance. She will be joined on stage by a star-studded cast of dancers from the Bolshoi Theatre. The evening opens with Come Un Respiro (Like a Breath) by Mauro Bigonzetti, created for Zakharova and set to music by George Frideric Handel, with striking Baroque-inspired costumes by Helena de Medeiros. The second half presents Gabrielle Chanel, a tribute to Coco Chanel, created by Yury Possokhov, Ilya Demutsky and Alexei Frandetti.
Tickets from Dhs395.
Make your purchase here.
Ivan Vasiliev: The Last Dance
When: May 30, 2026
Where: Dubai Opera
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