Turkish pop icon Tarkan announces first-ever Abu Dhabi concert
Fans promised iconic hits, new music and high-energy production
ABU DHABI – Turkish pop megastar Tarkan is set to headline a major live concert in Abu Dhabi this April, adding another high-profile event to the capital’s rapidly growing entertainment calendar.
The globally celebrated singer will take to the stage at Etihad Arena on Yas Island on Friday, 17 April 2026, marking his first-ever performance in Abu Dhabi. The show is expected to draw fans from across the UAE and the wider region, reflecting his enduring popularity across generations.
Scheduled to begin at 8.30pm, with doors opening at 7pm, the concert promises an evening packed with some of the most recognisable songs in contemporary Turkish pop. Organisers say audiences can expect a carefully curated setlist blending classic anthems with material from Tarkan’s more recent releases, supported by large-scale visuals, dynamic choreography and full live production.
Who is Tarkan?
Tarkan is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists in Turkish music history. He rose to prominence in the early 1990s after the release of his debut album Yine Sensiz in 1992, which quickly established him as a defining voice in modern Turkish pop. Subsequent albums including Aacayipsin and Olurum Sana cemented his reputation, pushing Turkish pop music onto international charts.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, Tarkan has sold over 15 million albums worldwide. His catalogue includes globally recognised hits such as Simarik, Sikidum, Kuzu Kuzu, Dudu and Yolla, tracks that helped introduce Turkish-language pop to audiences far beyond Türkiye. His music continues to enjoy strong streaming figures and consistent radio play across Europe and the Middle East.
Major live shows
Known for his powerful vocals and commanding stage presence, Tarkan has built a reputation for high-energy live performances. He has sold out some of the most prominent arenas in Europe, including Volkswagen Arena in Türkiye, Barclays Arena in Hamburg and The O2 in London. Each tour has reinforced his standing as a performer capable of blending mass appeal with polished, arena-scale production.
The upcoming Abu Dhabi concert is being positioned as a full-scale live experience rather than a pared-back appearance. Promoters have confirmed that the show will feature a mix of emotional ballads and upbeat dance tracks, designed to reflect the breadth of his musical career while appealing to both long-time followers and new listeners.
UAE connection
While the April 2026 concert will be Tarkan’s first performance in Abu Dhabi, he is no stranger to audiences in the UAE. He previously performed in Dubai in 2006 at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, now known as The Agenda. More recently, he was seen in Dubai again in 2025 and was also spotted at Atlantis, The Palm during the same year, sparking renewed interest among regional fans.
Tickets and concert details
Tickets for the concert will go on sale on 9 January, with sales opening at 12pm. A range of options will be available, including reserved seating, Golden Circle standing and general admission floor standing. Entry to the standing floor is restricted, with no under-16s permitted, while floor standing is limited to those aged 14 and above, with under-16s required to be accompanied by an adult.
Ticket prices exclude per-ticket and per-order charges. Mobile entry will be in place, meaning tickets must be accessed via a smartphone and cannot be printed or emailed. A ticket purchase limit of eight tickets per person and per credit card applies, with organisers warning that orders exceeding published limits may be cancelled.
All guests will require a valid ticket for entry, with strict no re-admission policies in force. Bags larger than 30 x 30 x 15 cm will not be permitted inside the venue, and no storage or cloakroom facilities will be available. Accessible seating options will be offered, with dedicated tickets required for guests of determination.