Get ready to laugh loud, Dubai. One of the city’s biggest entertainment highlights is officially making its return, and it’s bringing 10 days of punchlines and packed-out venues. The Dubai Comedy Festival is gearing up for its 8th edition this October 2026, promising another citywide celebration of stand-up, satire and side-splitting storytelling. Here’s everything we know so far.
Also Read: Dubai: These 14 Comedy Shows Will Have You Laughing Throughout 2026
Up For Some Comedy? Dubai Comedy Festival 2026 Dates Are Confirmed
Mark your calendars as the festival will run from Thursday, 8 October to Sunday, 18 October 2026. For 10 days straight, some of the biggest names in global comedy will take over the city, delivering shows across multiple iconic venues.
Laugh Out Loud Across Major Venues Across The City
From grand theatre stages to large-scale arena shows, audiences can expect a mix of intimate stand-up sets and high-energy headline performances. This 8th edition will host performances at some of Dubai’s most popular entertainment hubs, including:
- Dubai Opera
- Coca-Cola Arena
- Mall of the Emirates theatres
2025 Set The Bar High…In 2026, Things Are About To Get Louder
Last year’s edition proved just how big the festival has become. The 2025 programme spanned four major venues, featured performances in seven languages, and delivered more than 60 hours of comedy across 34 shows. In total, over 70 comedians from around the world took to the stage. With that kind of momentum, expectations for 2026 are already sky-high.
Expect A Global Line-Up
With nearly 200 nationalities who call Dubai home, the festival has built a reputation for curating a line-up that reflects the city’s diversity. Expect performances across multiple languages and comedy styles, from observational humour, cultural commentary, to sharp political satire. The inaugural 2015 edition made headlines when Dave Chappelle delivered his first-ever Middle East performance at Skydive Dubai. Over the years, it has welcomed globally recognised comedians including:
- Mo Amer
- Bassem Youssef
- Gad Elmaleh
- Nemr
- Vir Das
- Maz Jobrani
- Morgan Jay
- And many more
But Wait…Headliners Yet To Be Announced
The official 2026 line-up is still under wraps, but organisers have confirmed that headline acts will be revealed soon. If previous years are anything to go by, expect internationally acclaimed comedians, viral sensations and regionally loved favourites. Keep following Gulf Buzz to be the first to know of the confirmed lineup!
Ready To Laugh Out Loud? Here Are All The Details
- Date: Thursday, 8 October – Sunday, 18 October 2026
- Time: Show timings vary (evening performances typically from 8 PM – 9 PM and later)
- Location: Dubai Opera, Coca-Cola Arena and Mall of the Emirates theatres
- Price: To be announced
For more information, visit the official Dubai Comedy Festival website or their Instagram page for updates.
