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Chicago The Musical Comes to Dubai in December 2026
Chicago The Musical brings Broadway's iconic jazz age spectacle to Dubai this December at Coca Cola Arena.
One of the most successful and celebrated musicals in theatre history is returning to Dubai.
‘Chicago The Musical’ will take over Coca Cola Arena from Wednesday December 16 to Sunday December 20, 2026, bringing eight performances of the Broadway phenomenon to the city.
Set against the glitz, glamour and scandal of 1920s ‘Chicago’, the production combines unforgettable music, iconic choreography and razor sharp storytelling. Nearly three decades after the current Broadway revival opened, ‘Chicago’ remains one of the most popular musicals in the world and continues to sell out theatres across continents.
The Dubai run arrives as the production celebrates the 30th anniversary of its record breaking Broadway revival, making this a particularly significant tour.
What is Chicago The Musical about?
Set during the roaring Jazz Age, the story follows Roxie Hart, a housewife and aspiring nightclub performer who murders her lover after he threatens to leave her. Facing a possible death sentence, she hires the city's most famous defence lawyer, Billy Flynn, to turn her trial into a media sensation.
Things become more complicated when Roxie crosses paths with Velma Kelly, a glamorous vaudeville star who is also behind bars for murder. Both women compete for public attention, newspaper headlines and ultimately freedom.
The story satirises celebrity culture, sensationalist media and society's obsession with fame. Despite being set in the 1920s, its themes feel remarkably relevant today.
The musical is based on a 1926 play by journalist Maurine Dallas Watkins, which itself was inspired by real murder cases she covered in Chicago.
The songs that made Chicago a global phenomenon
Even if you have never seen Chicago before, chances are you already know some of its songs. Chicago's score is packed with songs that have become musical theatre classics. You can expect to hear:
- All That Jazz
- Cell Block Tango
- Roxie
- Razzle Dazzle
- We Both Reached for the Gun
- Mister Cellophane
- When You're Good to Mama
- All I Care About
Among them, ‘Cell Block Tango’ remains one of Broadway's most recognisable musical numbers, while ‘All That Jazz’ has become synonymous with the show itself.
Why Chicago is one of Broadway's most successful musicals
The Broadway revival opened in New York in 1996 and has been running continuously ever since. It is widely recognised as the longest running musical revival in Broadway history and one of the longest running musicals ever staged.
Over the years, Chicago has accumulated an extraordinary collection of accolades including:
- Six Tony Awards
- Two Olivier Awards
- One Grammy Award
- Multiple Academy Awards through its film adaptation
- Multiple BAFTA Awards
The 2002 film version starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta Jones and Richard Gere introduced the musical to an entirely new generation and won the Academy Award for Best Picture.
Today, Chicago continues to tour globally and remains one of the most in demand productions in musical theatre.
What makes Chicago different from other musicals?
Unlike many modern productions that rely on giant sets and elaborate visual effects, Chicago takes a different approach.
The orchestra is positioned on stage. The set design is minimal. The focus remains firmly on the performers, music and choreography. This gives the production a raw energy that feels surprisingly contemporary despite its age.
A major part of the show's appeal is the choreography inspired by legendary director and choreographer Bob Fosse. His instantly recognisable style combines sharp movements, angled poses, bowler hats, fishnet stockings and jazz infused theatricality.
Many of the dance techniques seen in contemporary musical theatre today can be traced directly back to Fosse's influence.
Why is the 2026 Dubai run special?
The Dubai engagement forms part of Chicago's 30th anniversary celebrations. Producers Barry Weissler and Fran Weissler have described the Coca Cola Arena performances as an exciting milestone for the production's global journey.
Bringing a Broadway institution of this scale to a venue capable of hosting up to 17,000 people creates a rare opportunity for audiences in the region to experience one of theatre's greatest success stories without travelling abroad.
The timing also works perfectly. Taking place in the week before Christmas, the run lands during one of Dubai's busiest entertainment periods, when residents and visitors alike are looking for major live events.
Few things to know before you go
A few things worth knowing before show day:
- The age restriction is strictly enforced. Everyone attending must be at least 15 years old.
- Backpacks are not permitted inside Coca Cola Arena, regardless of size. Bring only essential items in a small bag.
- If you want the best value, weekday Bronze tickets (Dhs49) offer one of the most affordable ways to see a world class touring production.
- Evening performances generally provide the strongest atmosphere, while matinees are often more relaxed and easier to access.
- City Walk is packed with restaurants and cafés, making it easy to plan dinner before the show.
Key details
Dates: December 16 to December 20, 2026
Venue: Coca Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai
Number of performances: 8
Matinee shows: 3pm
Evening shows: 8pm
Price: Starts Dhs49 (Bronze) ranging up to Dhs799 (Royal Floor)
Age restriction: 15+ only
Tickets: Book your tickets via coca-cola-arena.com
With its timeless story, legendary songs, iconic choreography and record breaking Broadway legacy, Chicago remains one of the most influential musicals ever created.
Whether you are a lifelong musical theatre fan or simply looking for a world class live entertainment experience during the festive season, this is one of the biggest theatre events heading to Dubai this year!
Dubai
CHICAGO THE MUSICAL
AED 49
