Sounds of Dubai: 5 Music Genres Thriving in the City

Get to know the sounds of Dubai's very own.

Music Preformance at Dubai Design Week (2017)Dubai Culture & Arts Authority

A flourishing music scene

From homegrown talents to expat musicians, Dubai's music scene is a melting pot of creativity. Discover the artists who are shaping the city's soundscape, creating a vibrant and diverse musical landscape.

Arqam Al Abri in Mishrif Park shot by Jalal AbuthinaDubai Culture & Arts Authority

Soul: Hamdan Al-Abri

Dubai's music scene wouldn't be the same without Abri. The Emirati artist started writing and performing in 2005, first as part of "Abri and the Band", then solo in 2011. His unique blend of funk, reggae, and soul has made him a beloved figure in the city's vibrant music scene.

Arqam Al Abri videoDubai Culture & Arts Authority

Lisandra during performence by Lisandra by LisandraDubai Culture & Arts Authority

Cuban rhythms: Lisandra







Hailing from Havana, Lisandra has been the lead singer of Cubache since 2017. Alongside the other 5 members of the band, Lisandra has been infusing the Dubai music scene with the colourful Cuban culture and rhythms, from Rumba and Son to Mambo and Cha Cha Cha. 


Freedom behind moment with Bull Funk zoo by Bull Funk by Bull FunkDubai Culture & Arts Authority

Funk-pop/Rock Fusion: Bull Funk Zoo

Assaad Lakkis, known as Bull Funk Zoo, delivers a powerful rock sound with a unique twist to Dubai's music scene. With three albums that have gained international recognition, he's shared the stage with international stars like Sade, Sting, Stanley Jordan, and Courtney Pine.

Mann showed keen interest in exploring diverse musical realms by Yana by yanaDubai Culture & Arts Authority

Classical/Opera: Yana Mann

Yana Mann, born in St. Petersburg, brought her classical and Opera sound to Dubai's music scene in 2014. She transcends traditional boundaries, embracing diverse styles and expressing her connection to the city through her music and fashion sense.

Niki MukhiDubai Culture & Arts Authority

Instrumental guitar: Niki Mukhi

Dubai-based guitarist Niki Mukhi blends flamenco, jazz, and qawwali to create a unique musical tapestry. His compositions, many of which have featured in international theatre and soundtracks for TV documentaries and radio, embody Dubai's multicultural dynamism.

Looking for more local artists? Explore the unique sounds of rapper Freek, or discover the experimental Arabic-infused sounds of NOON.

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