Dubai is preparing to host the first edition of Dubai K-Fest 2026, which will begin on September 25 under the theme “Discover Korea in Dubai” and offer 10 days of experiences and activities inspired by Korean culture.
The festival will bring together K-pop concerts, Korean movie screenings, beauty, fashion, food, and shopping experiences, as well as cultural performances and a range of activities taking place across Dubai, turning the city into a destination for fans of Korean culture throughout the event.
A Spectacular Opening at Dubai Festival City Mall
The festival will kick off at Dubai Festival City Mall, where a free concert will take place at Festival Bay in a lively atmosphere combining music and entertainment.
The evening will begin with the popular IMAGINE show, followed by a live concert featuring South Korean artist Kwon Eun-bi, before ONEUS takes the stage for a performance in front of the audience.
The opening celebration will conclude with a fireworks display lighting up the Dubai skyline, setting the tone for the festive atmosphere of the inaugural edition.
Kwon Eun-bi and ONEUS Take the Opening Stage
The opening concert will bring together two well-known names from the world of K-pop. Kwon Eun-bi, who has built a strong presence in South Korea and internationally, will perform after first gaining global recognition as a member of IZ*ONE.
The event will also feature ONEUS, known for its powerful performances and distinctive artistic concepts, bringing the energy of K-pop directly to Festival Bay in a free live show for Dubai audiences.
ONEUS’ appearance in Dubai will be especially significant, as it marks the group’s first global appearance following the release of its 12th album, FIRST LIGHT, giving fans the opportunity to enjoy some of its latest music in a live setting.
Special Dance Performances on Day Two
Dubai K-Fest will continue on September 26, starting at 7:30 p.m., with another evening at Dubai Festival City Mall featuring well-known names from the Korean dance scene.
Artist and choreographer Aiki, known for appearing on Street Woman Fighter and leading dance crew HOOK, will take part alongside choreographer Choi Young-joon.
Choi Young-joon is associated with a number of major K-pop performances, with his choreography helping shape shows by several prominent artists in the genre.
The second-day activities will also be free to attend, giving audiences another opportunity to enjoy Korean dance and entertainment in Dubai.
10 Days of Korean Culture and Entertainment in Dubai
Dubai K-Fest 2026 will continue across the city from September 25 through October 4, offering a wide range of experiences celebrating Korean culture over 10 days.
The festival is built around four main pillars: Celebrate, Shop, Win, and Taste, with a program combining music, movies, culture, shopping, and food in one experience.
The program will include free live performances by K-pop stars, Korean movie nights, and experiences focused on beauty, fashion, and food, along with cultural shows and other activities.
The festival will also feature shopping promotions across different parts of Dubai, in addition to special prizes that will add to the excitement throughout the event.
Dubai Brings Together Fans of Korean Culture
The launch of Dubai K-Fest reflects the growing global reach of Korean culture, alongside Dubai’s position as a city where different cultures, communities, and global trends come together.
The first edition of the festival will give Korean artists, brands, creators, and companies a new platform to connect with Dubai’s diverse audience through an experience that brings together culture, entertainment, and modern lifestyle trends.
The festival will also give families and visitors the chance to discover different aspects of Korea without leaving Dubai, whether through music, dance, movies, fashion, beauty, or food.
Organizing Dubai K-Fest 2026
Dubai K-Fest 2026 is organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, one of the entities under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
The festival is also supported by the UAE business center of the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), along with the KOREA 360 initiative.
