Arijit Singh, Karan Aujla and Sonu Nigam will headline the inaugural event, bringing together more than 15 artists on Yas Island
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan is set to launch UNIFYD, a new Indian music and cultural festival in Abu Dhabi, with its inaugural edition scheduled for March 20, 2027, at Etihad Live on Yas Island.
The one-day event will feature more than 15 artists across multiple stages, with prominent Indian singers Arijit Singh, Karan Aujla and Sonu Nigam among the first performers announced. The festival aims to showcase the diversity of Indian music to audiences in the United Arab Emirates and beyond.
Khan will oversee the festival’s artistic direction and creative vision. The actor, who has a long association with Abu Dhabi, previously hosted the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards on Yas Island in 2024.
Speaking about the initiative, Khan said music, like cinema, had the power to bring people together. He described UNIFYD as an opportunity to unite leading Indian artists on a shared platform.
The line-up will span Hindi film music and Punjabi music, with additional performers expected to be announced. Sonu Nigam is scheduled to perform a special set, which organisers say will be his first appearance at a music festival.
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UNIFYD is being produced by D’YAVOL Live and District, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism and Miral
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The organisers intend to develop the festival into an international platform, with plans to explore expansion into other cities and markets after its Abu Dhabi debut
The event comes amid growing international interest in Indian music, driven by Bollywood soundtracks, Punjabi music and the increasing global reach of Indian artists. Abu Dhabi’s large Indian expatriate community also provides a significant audience for a festival centred on Indian cultural expression.
Tickets will be sold exclusively through the District app, with general sales scheduled to begin at 10.30 am on October 20, 2026. Ticket prices had not been announced as of October 16.
The organisers have positioned UNIFYD as a platform connecting Indian music and culture with international audiences, with further details about the programme expected in the coming months.
