The Wireless Middle East festival is set to return to Abu Dhabi, bringing a star-studded lineup to Etihad Park on November 23. This year’s event promises an electrifying celebration of urban music and pop culture, featuring performances by Grammy-award winner Sza, British rapper 21 Savage, and American rapper Yeat, among others.

Key Takeaways

  • Event Date: November 23
  • Location: Etihad Park, Abu Dhabi
  • Headliners: Sza, 21 Savage, Yeat
  • Additional Performer: Indian rapper Karan Aujla
  • Previous Headliners: Travis Scott, Wegz
  • First Wireless Event: 2005 in London

Star-Studded Lineup

Sza, a Grammy-award-winning artist known for her collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, Doja Cat, and Rihanna, will be one of the main attractions. The American singer-songwriter gained widespread attention with her EPs before releasing her critically acclaimed debut album, Ctrl, in 2017.

Joining her on Yas Island will be British rapper 21 Savage, making his first appearance in the region. The London-born artist rose to fame with his debut mixtape The Slaughter Tape in 2015. His most recent album, American Dream, released in January, reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart. He is best known for his breakout track "X" featuring Future and the 2016 EP Savage Mode with producer Metro Boomin.

Newcomers to the Region

American rapper Yeat, known for his low-fi melodies and experimental sound, will also be making his Middle East debut in Abu Dhabi. He released his debut album Up 2 Me in 2021, which included tracks like "Money So Big" and "Get Busy."

Diverse Talent

Adding to the diverse lineup is Indian rapper Karan Aujla, known for songs like "Property of Punjab," "Don’t Look," and "Yaarian Ch Fikk." Aujla blends traditional Punjabi folk elements with contemporary rap and hip-hop, offering a unique musical experience.

A Growing Legacy

Last year’s Wireless Middle East event sold out, attracting more than 25,000 attendees with headliners Travis Scott and Wegz. The festival has evolved significantly since its inception in 2005 in London, where it initially focused on electronic indie-rock genres. Today, it has shifted its focus to hip-hop, grime, and Afrobeat, reflecting the changing tastes of its audience.

The Wireless Middle East festival continues to grow, promising an unforgettable experience for music lovers in the UAE capital.

Sources