There’s an old Arabic word that sums up what a great night of live music feels like. Wasla (وصلة). It means “connection”, and that’s exactly what’s heading to Expo City Dubai this November. Wasla Festival will bring artists and audiences together for one night of live music, unity and real impact. The idea is simple. Music goes beyond borders, language and differences, and it can turn a crowd of people from all over into one shared experience. I have all the brilliant details you need to know, so keep reading to find out more.
Four Acts, Four Very Different Sounds
Expect everything from the rich sound of the oud and the poetry of Arabic folk music to desert blues, reggae and contemporary soul. Each artist brings their own story and their own way of connecting with the crowd.
Marcel Khalife is a legendary Lebanese composer and oud master, known around the world for his modern Arabic folk music and poetic anthems. His songs have stayed with people across generations, and at Wasla he brings the storytelling that has made him such a lasting voice in Arabic music.
Le Trio Joubran is a Palestinian ensemble made up of three brothers, who have a musical conversation on three ouds. Their compositions move between delicate melodies and big, resonant moments, showing just how much this instrument can do. Their set at Wasla celebrates heritage, creativity and shared expression.
TootArd are a duo from the Golan Heights who blend desert blues, reggae and vintage Middle Eastern retro-pop into a sound all their own. There’s plenty of rhythm and a love of experimenting in their music, and it feels both familiar and unexpected at the same time.
Fatima, formerly known as FAFA, is an Abu Dhabi artist with roots in both the UAE and Honduras. She fuses soulful R&B, jazz and contemporary Middle Eastern influences, and her music is about self-empowerment, truth and inner peace. She brings a fresh sound to the lineup.
The Reason Behind The Music
This isn’t just a night out. This year, Wasla is in support of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and its work to protect displaced families. That means helping families who’ve been forced to flee their homes get access to shelter, healthcare, education and the essentials they need to rebuild their lives.
Whether You’re A Fan Or Just Curious
Maybe you’re coming for an artist you’ve loved for years. Maybe you’re coming to discover someone new. Either way, Wasla is an evening to enjoy great music, connect across cultures and stand in solidarity with families forced to leave their homes.
Get Your Tickets
Tickets are available now on Ticketmaster, Platinumlist or the Wasla Festival website. Follow @waslafestival on Instagram for the latest updates.
One night. One collective voice. And One common language. The language of music.
