Tunisian singer Lamia Riahi brings women-only Tarab singalong to Abu Dhabi

Tunisian singer Lamia Riahi is bringing women together for an exclusive Tarab singalong in Abu Dhabi. The event, taking place on August 28 at the Cultural Foundation, challenges the traditional concert experience by encouraging active participation from the audience. Riahi, known for her focus on Arab Tarab and Gulf music, will blend Arabic and Gulf songs in a way she describes as "satisfying almost every taste."

This is Riahi's first performance in the Gulf, marking a significant step for her career. The concert is deeply personal for her, as it stems from her work in Tunisia, where she runs a private cultural center and women's singing group. Riahi believes women need spaces to relieve the pressures of work and family life, and the event aims to provide such an environment.

Sanaa Azzi, co-founder of Highways Arabia, the organizer behind the event, sees the women-only format as an opportunity to break away from exclusion and instead create a shared, fun activity for women. The concert will feature Chorale El Arab from Arab Choir Abu Dhabi and other local musicians, all under the musical direction of Dr Ahmed Abdel Sattar.

The Cultural Foundation was chosen for its intimate setting, ensuring attendees feel connected to the stage. Organizers have also created a wall for attendees to leave messages, with some expected to be shared during Abu Dhabi's Emirati Women's Day program. Highways Arabia hopes to build on this event, inspiring other women's initiatives in the UAE. The event starts at 8pm, with tickets priced from Dh350.