Know your artist: John Cena, Pom Klementieff, Mackenyu and Amr Diab — 5 artists coming to the UAE

Dubai: A weekly spotlight on the artists, comedians and performers arriving in the UAE. Their backgrounds, what makes them notable, and why attending their shows before they become sold out is essential. This week's lineup includes a wrestling legend-turned-Hollywood star, a Marvel actress, a One Piece star, one of the Arabic pop world's most beloved voices, and a comic-con newcomer straight out of Star Wars.

1. John Cena - MEFCC, Abu Dhabi

Former WWE champion and wrestler-turned-actor John Cena will appear at the MEFCC in Abu Dhabi from September 11 to 13. Tickets start at Dh160 on mefcc.com. Cena's transition from in-ring competition to Hollywood was gradual, but his subsequent roles in The Suicide Squad, F9: The Fast Saga, Fast X, Bumblebee and Peacemaker show his continued relevance.

He's also one of the most prolific Make-A-Wish volunteers, granting over 650 wishes. Cena's appearance at MEFCC offers a unique experience through photo opportunities and autograph sessions, which are more intimate than arena concerts.

2. Pom Klementieff - MEFCC, Abu Dhabi

Canadian actress Pom Klementieff, better known as Mantis from the Guardians of the Galaxy series, will return to the UAE for her role at the MEFCC from September 11 to 13. Tickets start at Dh160 on mefcc.com. Before her MCU debut, Klementieff appeared in Park Chan-wook's Oldboy, Mission: Impossible and a Black Mirror episode. Known for her warm personality and memorable fan interactions, Klementieff adds another layer to the Guardians franchise.

3. Mackenyu - MEFCC, Abu Dhabi

Mackenyu, who voices Roronoa Zoro in the live-action One Piece series on Netflix, will appear at the MEFCC in Abu Dhabi from September 11 to 13. Tickets start at Dh160 on mefcc.com. The casting of Mackenyu as Zoro was highly scrutinized, with much of the praise going to his portrayal of the stoic, chaotic swordsman. Known for his work in Fullmetal Alchemist: The Revenge of Scar and Knights of the Zodiac, Mackenyu's versatility is evident. His global appeal is bolstered by his Japanese martial arts background.

4. Tamer Hosny - Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi

Egyptian pop sensation Tamer Hosny will take the stage at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October 17, co-headlining with Tamer Ashour. Tickets start at Dh137 on platinumlist.net. Hosny's career spans over two decades, with romantic ballads that resonate across generations of Arabic music listeners. His film career in Egypt and active social media presence make him a familiar face. Sharing the stage with Ashour, who shares a similar fanbase, promises a night of sing-alongs and emotionally engaging music.

5. Amr Diab - Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai

Egyptian music icon Amr Diab, known as the "King of Arabic Pop" and "Father of Mediterranean Music," will perform at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on November 7. Tickets start at Dh345 on platinumlist.net. With a career spanning three decades, Diab has released numerous chart-topping hits and remains relevant to this day. Known as the "King of Arabic Pop," his performances at Coca-Cola Arena are expected to be a hit, featuring fan favorites such as Ya Ana Ya La, Amarain, Leily Nahary, Enta El Hazz, and Nour El Ein.