The internationally acclaimed singer joins a month-long programme of performances
Manar Abu Dhabi is turning up the festive season this December with the announcement that internationally acclaimed singer EMEL (Emel Mathlouthi) will join the second edition of the festival on Jubail Island on 20 December at 7.30pm.
Manar Abu Dhabi forms part of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, showcasing a dynamic mix of performances, workshops, exhibitions, and immersive experiences across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain until 4 January 2026.
Known for her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, EMEL will take audiences on a musical journey through her latest album, MRA, blending African trap, Arabic reggaeton, batucada, hip hop, and drum ’n’ bass.
The performance celebrates female creativity with an all-female lineup of collaborators, promising an unforgettable live experience that fuses heritage and contemporary artistry.
EMEL has previously worked with artists including Valgeir Sigurdsson, Tricky, Barbara Pravi, Bachar Mar-Khalifé, Vitalic, and Acid Arab, cementing her status as a pioneering global artist.
EMEL’s addition complements an already vibrant programme. Highlights include:
- Love and Revenge on 10 December at 7.30pm, a tribute to Oum Kalthoum fusing archival imagery with electronic soundscapes.
- Ars Nova Napoli on 13 December at 7.30pm, bringing the vibrant folk traditions of southern Italy to Jubail Island with accordion, fiddle, trumpet, mandolin, gaita bagpipes, and frame drums.
- Weekend performances at Souq Al Mina by Amjad Shakir (19 December) and Shilpa Ananth X Beatbox Ray (26 December), starting at 8.15pm.
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Beyond performances, Manar Abu Dhabi invites audiences to participate in hands-on workshops with artists such as Maitha Hamdan (14 December, 6pm), explore climate and wellness initiatives with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (7 & 14 December), or experience the Future Meditation Experience with Kayan Wellness Festival (18 December, 4.30pm).
Families can also enjoy Gracia Farm’s Saturday activities, from puppet-making to plant painting, and Neon slime workshops at Slime Lab every Friday. Photography and videography enthusiasts can join Fujifilm’s creative workshops on 6, 13, and 20 December.
Guided tours across Jubail Island and Al Ain are available, alongside an array of food and beverage pop-ups at Jubail Island, Al Qattara Oasis, and Al Jimi Oasis, ensuring that every visitor can enjoy a full sensory festival experience.
With EMEL now part of the programme, Manar Abu Dhabi promises an even more dynamic, immersive, and culturally rich month, combining music, art, community engagement, and interactive experiences for all ages.
For the complete public programme and to register for events, visit paad.ae
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