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Is there an opera house in Dubai?

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TwoContinents

Bartosz Jaglarz

26 February 2026

Dubai Opera

In the very centre of Dubai, you will find a building that is a multifunctional cultural centre and the seat of art and artistry in the city. The Dubai Opera, better known internationally as Dubai Opera, is a stunning opera house completed in 2016, attracting world-class performances, artists and people seeking unique opera experiences. Find out more about what the opera house in Dubai looks like, how much tickets for performances cost and what performances you can see there.

Is there an opera house in Dubai?

Yes! It may come as a surprise to many, but not to others, that Dubai has its own opera house. Opened in August 2016, it is one of the most distinctive buildings in the city and the reason why cultural tourism in Dubai has begun to develop so rapidly. Dubai Opera is a music and entertainment venue with a capacity of up to 2,000 people, adapted to various forms of performances and art, including theatre, opera, ballet, concerts, conferences and exhibitions. At Dubai Opera, attractions are available not only to guests of performances, but also to casual tourists.

Where is Dubai Opera located?

Dubai Opera is located in the city centre, in the Dubai Downtown district, right next to the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall shopping centre. The opera house stands out among the skyscrapers rising behind it, emphasising the contrast between the artistic soul of the building and the residential and business function of the district. There are interesting attractions in Dubai in the vicinity of the opera house, such as the Museum of the Future, the Sky Views Observatory and the fountain show in front of the Burj Khalifa.

Downtown is not the only location in the city where art lovers can breathe fresh air. Dubai's culture and arts are thriving in the Al Quoz district, where you will find the famous Alserkal Avenue, a place that brings together numerous creative minds and local artists.

Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera architecture

What does the architecture of Dubai Opera look like? That's an interesting question! The architecture of Dubai Opera is unique, and the building stands out in the cityscape at first glance. Why? What is unique about the construction of the opera house in Dubai? The Dubai Opera House was built by the developer Emaar Properties, designed by Janus Rostock of Atkins, and the theatre part by Theate Projects Consultants. The construction plan was announced by the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in March 2012, and construction was completed in August 2016. The shape of the Dubai Opera resembles a traditional Emirati dhow boat or a sail blowing in the wind, and it serves as a traditional theatre, concert hall, conference space, and even a venue for weddings! The glass facade of the opera house fits perfectly into Dubai's futuristic vision.

Dubai Opera cultural events

Are there concerts and performances at Dubai Opera? What to see at Dubai Opera? The theatre scene in Dubai is growing year by year, and music concerts are attracting more and more big names. Dubai Opera hosts numerous concerts and performances, including world-famous musicals such as ‘Wicked’ and ‘Rumi’, classical opera performances, ballet performances, e.g. Svetlana Zakharova - Gabrielle Chanel Ballet, orchestral concerts, symphony concerts, i.e. the best opera, choral and orchestral performances from around the world, popular music and jazz concerts, comedies and shows by famous comedians and performances by Arab artists (mostly Emirati). You can check the programme and make reservations at Dubai Opera directly on the opera's website, and book accommodation in Dubai with the best view of the city from private apartments on the Two Continents website.

Dubai Opera from the inside
Photo: Dubai Opera

How to buy tickets for Dubai Opera?

Tickets for concerts and performances in Dubai – where to buy and how much do they cost? The easiest way to buy tickets for performances and events at Dubai Opera is directly on the Dubai Opera website. There you can check how much tickets cost and what events will be taking place during the current Dubai Opera season. Are you interested in a trip to Dubai? Visit the Two Continents website, where you can book a trip that includes accommodation, a package of attractions, tour guide assistance throughout the trip, health insurance and airport transport.

What are the opening hours of Dubai Opera?

Dubai Opera is usually open daily from 10:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, but the opening hours of Dubai Opera may vary depending on the repertoire and events taking place there.

Dubai Opera

Are there other cultural venues similar to the opera in Dubai?

Yes! Visiting Dubai's cultural venues is one of the coolest ideas for a themed city tour. Art lovers can follow the trail of artistic attractions and places in Dubai, as well as admire Dubai's public art and street art. Fans of spectacular events must see La Perle with world-renowned artists, and if you like museums, learn about the history of Dubai at the Al Shindagha Museum.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

  • Is Dubai Opera open to tourists?

Yes, Dubai Opera is open to tourists. Visiting Dubai Opera is a popular cultural attraction in the city. Tourists can explore the building, admire its futuristic architecture and interiors, and attend performances, concerts or even special guided tours showing the behind-the-scenes workings of the Dubai Opera.

  • What events take place at Dubai Opera?

Dubai Opera can host a variety of events, including operas, ballets, classical and popular music concerts, musicals and theatre. The architecture of the venue allows for the layout of the hall to be changed, enabling conferences, banquets, exhibitions and even weddings to be organised.

  • How to plan a visit to Dubai Opera?

If you are planning a visit to Dubai Opera, it is best to combine it with a tour of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall shopping centre and the Dubai Fountains. It is better to buy tickets for events and performances at Dubai Opera in advance, as the number of seats for popular events is limited.