Dancehall artist Sean Paul was set to headline the Coca Cola Arena in Dubai on Saturday (October 21), however the 20,000 capacity venue has postponed all events until further notice in light of the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinians. He was set to be joined by American rapper T.I., at the Meraas property, an Arab conglomerate owned by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
“Over the coming days we will work closely with the authorities, promoters and artist management to secure new dates,” stated an Instagram post from Coca-Cola Arena.
“Tickets purchased for the original dates will remain valid and further information on ticket transfer policy and refund options will be shared imminently.
“We sincerely thank you for your understanding and patience in this matter and look forward to welcoming you.”
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While organisers did not yet give a reason for the postponement, several fans have responded with applause for the move to cancel the shows in solidarity with Palestine. One person posted, “Thanks a lot for understanding. Its not a good time for concerts and shows🥺🙏.”
“DJ Rodge also said according to National News that he has pulled out of the series of gigs as a gesture of respect for lives lost in the Israel-Gaza conflict. “This Friday’s concert (yesterday ) in Dubai has been postponed, and as you know by now, I have cancelled all my others scheduled shows (Riyadh, Egypt and Beirut),” he wrote. “The music takes a pause, as we remember the lives lost and pray for a better future. Stay safe this weekend, wish for peace and a swift recovery to the injured. Let’s unite in our hopes for an end to this inhuman war.”
Likewise in response to what has been referred to as “the current global situation,” Emaar, Dubai largest developer, has also made the decision to cancel its upcoming community events and festivities within its property developments. This announcement from the company which owns the world’s tallest building The Burj Khalifa was relayed to residents through a letter from Emaar’s Community Management team.
Acknowledging the cherished nature of these ‘community events,’ particularly for younger residents, Emaar expressed solidarity with those affected by ‘recent events’ and extended apologies for any inconvenience caused. The message read:
“Please be informed that we are writing to inform you about an important decision that has been made regarding the upcoming community events and festivities. Due to the current global situation and the ongoing challenges faced by our global community, we have decided to cancel the upcoming community events until further announcement. We understand that our community events are cherished occasions for many, especially our younger residents, and this decision was not taken lightly. Our thoughts are with those who are affected by the recent events, and we stand with them during these difficult times. We apologize for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause and appreciate your understanding and cooperation during these extraordinary circumstances.”
US rock band Kiss also cancelled their concert last-minute at Coca-Cola Arena and is not yet known if other upcoming performances or events will also be postponed. Grammy-winning rapper Macklemore is scheduled to perform on October 28 at Coca-Cola Arena while rock band Bastille is set to play on November 1. In Abu Dhabi, UFC 294 is still scheduled to take place at Etihad Arena this weekend.
