Turkish icon Tarkan announces first-ever Abu Dhabi show

Abu Dhabi is set for a huge live music moment this spring as Turkish pop megastar Tarkan makes his Abu Dhabi debut on 17 April 2026, taking over Etihad Arena for one unforgettable night.

It marks the first time the global icon will perform in the UAE capital, bringing decades of chart-topping hits, magnetic stage presence and the kind of crowd energy he is famous for around the world. The show is presented by Live Nation Middle East, in partnership with Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral.

The announcement comes during a major high point in Tarkan’s career. His upcoming Istanbul residency in January sold out all eight nights at Volkswagen Arena, with the first four dates disappearing in just 45 minutes. That momentum has continued across Europe, where his most recent tour packed out arenas in Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, Austria and Switzerland, including headline venues such as The O2 in London.

Since bursting onto the scene in 1992, Tarkan has played a defining role in shaping contemporary Turkish pop, becoming one of Türkiye’s most influential global music ambassadors. With more than 15 million albums sold worldwide and a catalogue packed with iconic hits including Şımarık, Şıkıdım, Kuzu Kuzu, Dudu and Yolla, his impact stretches far beyond borders.

Fans have also embraced his more recent work, from the chart-topping album 10 to 2024’s Kuantum 51, alongside singles such as Geççek, Yap Bi Güzellik and Anılarla Yaşamak. Known for consistently selling out arenas weeks in advance, Tarkan’s live shows are celebrated for their connection with the audience and high-energy performances.

Now, Abu Dhabi fans finally get their chance to experience it live, as one of the region’s most anticipated concerts of 2026 lands on Yas Island.

Here's the details:

• Date: 17 April 2026

• Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

• Tickets:

  • General on sale: 9 January 2026 at 12pm GST

  • Available via livenation.me and ticketmaster.ae