Wicked the Musical makes its UAE debut at Dubai Opera in 2026

The production features a world-class cast, a live 10-piece orchestra playing 35 different instruments, and a completely new scenic design by Morgan Large.

The global phenomenon Wicked will make its UAE debut at Dubai Opera, running from 28 January to 15 February 2026. The announcement, made at a press event attended by the show's legendary composer, Stephen Schwartz, confirmed the long-awaited arrival of one of Broadway's biggest musicals. The run is a major part of Dubai Opera's 10th anniversary celebrations.

A reimagined production for the Middle East

This version of Wicked is not just a touring production; it has been specifically reimagined for its regional debut. Director John Steffnik explained the creative team's goal. “We really wanted it to be like nothing that the Middle East had ever seen before,” he said. “You’ll be seeing aspects of the show that we have not done anywhere else in the world.”

The production features a world-class cast, a live 10-piece orchestra playing 35 different instruments, and a completely new scenic design by Morgan Large. This unique approach promises a fresh experience for both new audiences and long-time fans of the musical, which has captivated audiences in over 130 cities worldwide.

Behind the scenes: costumes and makeup

The scale of the production is immense. Head of Wardrobe Brett Hooper confirmed the show uses between 250 and 300 costumes, comprising about 1,000 individual pieces, including shoes and accessories. These elaborate designs are essential to creating the magical world of Oz on stage.

Creating the character Elphaba's signature green look was a unique challenge. “To develop that green colour, we had to experiment with iridescent colours to tell the story. It changes throughout the show,” said Malvina Savinskaya, Head of Makeup and Design. The makeup evolves to show Elphaba's growth and strength, with some changes requiring only seconds backstage.

Dates, times and tickets

Wicked will run at Dubai Opera from Wednesday, 28 January to Sunday, 15 February 2026. The show is one of the most anticipated events in the venue's history, which has also hosted other major productions and concerts. Tickets will be available through the official Dubai Opera website and authorised ticketing partners. Given the musical's popularity, booking in advance is highly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Wicked playing in Dubai?

Wicked the Musical is running at Dubai Opera for a limited season from 20 January to 15 February 2026. This marks the first time the production has ever been staged in the UAE.

How much are tickets for Wicked at Dubai Opera?

Ticket prices for Wicked at Dubai Opera have not been announced yet. Details on pricing tiers and booking information are expected to be released closer to the performance dates via the official Dubai Opera website.

What makes the Dubai production of Wicked unique?

The Dubai production has been reimagined specifically for the Middle East. It features new scenic design and other aspects not seen in previous versions of the show, offering a unique and thrilling experience for the audience.

Is Wicked suitable for families?

While an official age rating for the Dubai show has not been given, Wicked is generally considered suitable for a family audience, typically recommended for ages eight and up due to its themes and length. It is not recommended for very young children.