Ministry of Sound Kicks Off Massive 35-City World Tour in Dubai

If you have been waiting for a major shake-up in the UAE nightlife scene, 2026 is starting on a high note. Ministry of Sound, the legendary London club brand that defined dance culture for over three decades, has chosen Dubai as the starting line for its unprecedented 35-city world tour.

While electronic music fans have had plenty to celebrate recently—including Alesso’s high-energy involvement in the Esports World Cup—this event promises to be a historic nod to house music history. Kicking off in January 2026, the event brings a festival-style atmosphere to one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

What It’s About

This isn't just another club night. To celebrate its 35th anniversary, Ministry of Sound is launching a year-long global tour spanning six continents. The goal is to take the brand back out into the world, recreating the energy, sound, and ethos that made the original South London bus depot famous in 1991.

Jared McCulloch, Head of Live at Ministry of Sound, describes the tour as a "living exhibition of dance culture." For the Dubai leg, the brand is taking over an open-air space beneath Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, promising a mix of nostalgia and cutting-edge production.

The Lineup: Legends and Local Talent

The Dubai kickoff has curated a lineup that balances house music royalty with strong regional support. Headlining the bill are New York heavyweights Dennis Ferrer and Armand Van Helden—names that are practically synonymous with the golden era of house.

Here is the confirmed talent roster for the night:

• Headliners: Dennis Ferrer, Armand Van Helden, DJ Tennis
• Special Sets: HoneyLuv (Groove-driven set)
• B3B Experience: South African selectors Caiiro, Da Capo, and Enoo Napa
• Support: Aline Rocha, Arcade 82 (Dubai-based duo), Hodges

When & Where to Watch

The world tour officially launches in the UAE before moving on to the rest of the globe.

• Date: January 31, 2026
• Location: Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island
• Format: Open-air, festival-style event

Following the Dubai launch, the tour will travel through Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. For those in the wider Middle East, the tour schedule includes stops in several neighbouring countries, ensuring the region is well-represented in this global celebration.

What We Know So Far

Ministry of Sound has confirmed that this is their largest touring undertaking to date. The brand, which has sold over 70 million albums and welcomes half a million visitors annually to its London home, is aiming to export its specific "club culture" benchmark to 35 cities.

While specific dates for the subsequent stops haven't been detailed yet, the list of countries confirms a massive regional presence. If you miss the Dubai kickoff, you might catch the tour in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, or Oman later in the year.

DATA: DUBAI LINEUP & REGIONAL STOPS

Here is the breakdown of who is playing in Dubai and where else the tour is heading in the region.

Dubai Kickoff Lineup (Jan 31, 2026)

Confirmed Middle East Tour Stops

FAQs

Written by

Share

Copied