• “Once Upon a Time in Dubai” musical premieres December 2025 in Dubai.
  • Produced by Stéphane Boukris with support from Universal Music MENA.
  • Stellar creative team includes Nazim Khaled and Johan Nus.
  • Open casting call invites global talent to join this historic production.

Dubai is set to make history with the launch of “Once Upon a Time in Dubai,” a groundbreaking musical set to premiere in December 2025. Produced by renowned French music producer Stéphane Boukris, in partnership with Universal Music MENA, this ambitious project promises to captivate audiences with its blend of music, storytelling, and the essence of Dubai’s vibrant spirit.

“This is more than just a musical—it’s a celebration of Dubai’s incredible energy and global status,” said Boukris, known for his work on the Robin Hood musical. “We are creating something truly unique that blends music, storytelling, and the spirit of this extraordinary city, exclusively made in Dubai, by the people of Dubai, for the world.”

The production is expected to draw over 150,000 spectators during its Dubai run before embarking on a global tour, with plans already underway for a screen adaptation. The musical’s scale and ambition mark a significant milestone in Dubai’s cultural landscape, elevating its status as a global hub for entertainment and innovation.

The show’s stellar lineup includes composer Nazim Khaled, known for his globally successful hits, and director Johan Nus, whose experience includes work on popular shows like Arabs Got Talent and The Masked Singer. Executive producer Gilles Papain, who has worked on iconic productions like Celine in Las Vegas, is also on board, ensuring a world-class experience for the audience.

Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s dynamic energy, “Once Upon a Time in Dubai” tells the story of Will, a young artist from London who comes to Dubai to reunite with his partner, Sophia, and pursue his dream of producing a musical spectacle. The narrative is a powerful mix of love, ambition, and the vibrant culture of Dubai.

In a bid to make the production even more inclusive, an open casting call was announced for seven singers and 20 dancers of all nationalities. “We’re not just looking for talent; we’re looking for passion and diversity to help us bring this vibrant story to life,” said Boukris.

The collaboration with Accor’s ALL loyalty programme and McDonald’s further highlights the scale of this production, offering audiences exclusive VIP experiences, behind-the-scenes access, and unique opportunities to engage with the show.

Recording for the musical’s album is expected to be completed by the end of 2024, with the first single set for release before the year’s end.

For more details, visit www.universalmusic.com.