Prepare for an entertainment spectacle as seasoned comedy legends and fresh faces come together to leave audiences in stitches
Abu Dhabi Comedy Week is set to serve up huge laughs and non-stop entertainment, as the capital’s first-ever comedy festival announces new additions to its star-studded lineup at Yas Island’s Etihad Arena from 18 to 26 May.
Award-winning comedy legend Dave Chappelle will headline the week-long event, delivering his legendary wit and unfiltered honesty. Hilarious household names Aziz Ansari, Tom Segura, and Jo Koy will join a stellar ensemble of comedic heavyweights including Tommy Tiernan & Kevin Bridges, Andrew Santino & Bobby Lee, Andrew Schulz, and Bassem Youssef & Maz Jobrani, guaranteeing a laugh riot amongst fans.
Adding to the excitement, Hollywood comedy superstar Chris Tucker will be making his return to Abu Dhabi after 10 years, with the Rush Hour star doing a late performance following Tom Segura on the same night.
Prepare for an entertainment spectacle as seasoned comedy legends and fresh faces come together to leave audiences in stitches, organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral in partnership with Live Nation Middle East, Blu Blood, Theory Eleven Entertainment, and GME Events.
Guests are invited to make the most of their time at Abu Dhabi Comedy Week and enjoy exclusive hotel and ticket packages offering accommodation, event tickets, complimentary access to Yas Beach, and convenient shuttle services, promising the perfect stay on Yas Island. Bookings for the ultimate staycation will be available from 19 April. For more information on Abu Dhabi Comedy Week packages, visit www.yasisland.com, and for event information and tickets, visit www.etihadarena.ae.
Here are the latest additions to the Abu Dhabi Comedy Week line-up:
Aziz Ansari (English)
Aziz Ansari is an award-winning actor, director, writer, and comedian. Known for his role as Tom Haverford on the NBC series Parks and Recreation, Aziz will bring his unique comedic style to the stage at Etihad Arena, Yas Island on 18 May. Starting his career in New York City in 2000 when he was a student, Aziz continued to grow and hone his skills over time, leading him to receive two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Comedy Writing as well as Emmy and DGA Award nominations for his Netflix series Master of None (2015–2021).
Aziz also co-created and starred in the MTV sketch comedy show Human Giant, after which he had acting roles in several feature films, including Get Him to the Greek, I Love You, Man, and 30 Minutes or Less. In 2019, he released his fifth show for Netflix, Right Now, which received critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination. His latest special, Nightclub Comedian, was filmed in December 2021 at The Comedy Cellar in New York and is now streaming on Netflix.
When: Saturday, 18 May
Tommy Tiernan and Kevin Bridges (English)
Embrace a night to remember with comedy sensations Tommy Tiernan and Kevin Bridges as they take the stage for an evening of laughter and entertainment like never before. Tiernan’s raw style has made him an Irish comedy icon, while Bridges is beloved in the UK for his sharp wit. Don’t miss this unique laughter-filled night.
When: Sunday, 19 May
Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee (English)
Get ready for a side-splitting evening with the hilarious duo Bad Friends, featuring Andrew Santino and Bobby Lee. Santino, known for his roles in “Dave” and “I’m Dying Up Here”, brings his amusing and versatile humor to the stage, while Bobby Lee, famous for “Mad TV”, brings his distinct comedic style and unforgettable characters.
When: Tuesday, 21 May
Andrew Schulz (English)
Be prepared for a night of laughter and thought-provoking comedy with Andrew Schulz, as he fearlessly tackles taboo subjects and delivers razor-sharp wit in his unique comedic style. Schulz gained widespread recognition for his viral YouTube series “Inside Jokes”, which explores various aspects of stand-up comedy. His bold and unapologetic approach to comedy has earned him a dedicated fanbase and made him a rising star in the comedy world.
When: Wednesday, 22 May
Dave Chappelle (English)
Renowned for his unmatched wit and fearless commentary on contemporary issues, Dave Chappelle has left a lasting mark on the comedy world. With numerous accolades and awards to his name, including multiple Grammy Awards and Emmy Awards, Chappelle remains one of the most influential and beloved comedians of our time. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness his extraordinary comedic talent live at Abu Dhabi Comedy Week.
When: Thursday, 23 May
Bassem Youssef and Maz Jobrani (English)
Join comedy legends Bassem Youssef and Maz Jobrani for a hilarious evening of laughter and wit. Youssef, dubbed the “Jon Stewart of the Middle East”, gained fame with “Al Bernameg”, the region’s first political satire show. He is recognised by Time magazine as one of the “100 most influential people in the world”. Meanwhile, Jobrani, known for his infectious energy and multicultural perspective, brings his unique brand of comedy to the stage, guaranteeing a relatable and uproarious experience that will leave the audience in stitches.
When: Friday, 24 May
Tom Segura (English)
A comedian, actor, and writer, Tom Segura is one of the biggest names in the comedy business, and he will be taking centre stage at Etihad Arena on Saturday 25 May. Tom is best known for his Netflix specials Ball Hog (2020), Disgraceful (2018), Mostly Stories (2016), and Completely Normal (2014).
In July 2022, he released his New York Times Bestselling book I’d Like To Play Alone, Please, which was described as “laugh out loud funny” by Forbes. His incredible storytelling abilities and clever humour drew millions of listeners to his hit podcasts such as Your Mom’s House and 2 Bears 1 Cave.
He recently toured the world with over 300 shows on his “I’m Coming Everywhere” world tour, spreading laughter and joy everywhere he goes.
When: Saturday, 25 May
Chris Tucker (English)
Get ready to laugh the night away with legendary comedian and actor Chris Tucker, known for his infectious energy and unforgettable performances in blockbuster films. Tucker gained fame for his role as Smokey in “Friday” and as Detective James Carter in the “Rush Hour” film series, showcasing his comedic talent and charismatic stage presence. With his larger-than-life personality and iconic catchphrases, Tucker has solidified himself as a comedic icon.
When: Saturday, 25 May
Jo Koy (English)
Jo Koy is on his way to Abu Dhabi on his World Tour! As one of today’s premiere stand-up comedians, Koy has come a long way from his modest beginnings performing in a Las Vegas coffee house.
Koy’s uniquely relatable comedy pulls inspiration from his colourful family that has reached all kinds of people and has translated into sold-out arenas around the world. He continues breaking sales records at some of the most prestigious venues around the world.
With four Netflix specials, an autobiography, and reaching number #1 on the Billboard Charts for his stand-up comedy album, Live From Seattle, it is no wonder Koy was given the prestigious “Stand-Up Comedian of the Year” award at the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal.
When: Sunday, 26 May