Dubai Debuts Its First Original Musical

The story unfolds in present-day Dubai and centres on Will, a London artist who relocates to the city driven by love and creative ambition. As he attempts to bring a musical to life alongside his partner Sophia, the narrative traces the emotional reality of starting over in a fast-moving, multicultural place. It is a familiar arc for many who arrive in Dubai with plans, pressure and possibility colliding at once.

What gives the production weight is the team behind it. Produced by Dubai-based music producer Stéphane Boukris and directed by Johan Nus, the show blends regional insight with international stage experience. Executive producer Gilles Papain brings a background in large-scale global productions, while the musical direction features Nazim Khaled alongside international artist Kendji Girac. Together, they have shaped a project designed to feel grounded in Dubai yet fluent in global theatre language.

The scale of ambition is clear. The production is expected to draw up to 150,000 attendees during its Dubai run through January 11, with ticket prices starting from AED 260. Beyond the local audience, plans are already in motion for an international tour, and a screen adaptation is also in development – signalling that this is a long-term creative investment rather than a one-off event.

More broadly, 'Once Upon a Time in Dubai' reflects a shift in how the city defines its cultural role. It suggests a move from importing entertainment to exporting original stories – narratives shaped by Dubai’s energy, diversity and contradictions. As the curtain rises, the musical stands as a statement of intent: Dubai is ready to tell its own stories, at scale, and on its own terms.