{
  "id": 1923901,
  "title": "After Shakira and Christina Aguilera cancellations, how UAE live events are adapting",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/19/after-shakira-and-christina-aguilera-cancellations-how-uae-live",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-19T11:14:55.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National Business",
    "slug": "the-national-business",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/arts-culture/music-stage/2026/08/19/after-shakira-and-christina-aguilera-cancellations-how-uae-live-events-are-adapting/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The cancellation of Abu Dhabi's Offlimits Festival, headlined by Shakira, has shed light on the challenges confronting the Middle East live events sector amid regional instability, shifting audience preferences, and financial pressures. Set to take place on November 21 at Etihad Park on Yas Island, the event, which was also to feature the Jonas Brothers, Ne-Yo, and other performers, was abruptly called off by organizers on the same day Christina Aguilera's September 25 concert at Etihad Arena was called off. Ticketmaster informed attendees that the event would no longer occur, without specifying a reason or proposing an alternative date. This announcement emerged as industry leaders gathered at the opening day of the Middle East Event Show at Dubai World Trade Centre to discuss the numerous pressures affecting major productions.\n\nCosmin Ivan, chief executive of UAE ticketing platform Platinumlist, which sold tickets to Offlimits, attributed the cancellation to logistical uncertainty, stating that the sales on their platform were robust, but the primary concern was transportation and tight artist deadlines. He noted that artists, like Shakira, are unwilling to risk being stranded anywhere in the world, and require clear visibility and assurance regarding their schedules. Consequently, promoters are compelled to price tickets accordingly, catering to a more local audience, as over 80% of Platinumlist ticket buyers reside in the UAE. Ivan highlighted that ticket prices for EDM concerts have decreased by 50% this year, with festivals following suit. While acknowledging that the situation is not entirely bleak, he pointed out that Arabic concerts have seen a 30% surge in ticket prices due to increased demand, as have Indian-focused events, which have grown nearly tenfold in popularity since 2021.\n\nSports and family activities have also demonstrated resilience, with local competitions such as football and basketball maintaining a strong presence throughout the year. Ticket prices for these categories have seen substantial increases, with sports-related events witnessing a 200% rise in ticket prices and family activities experiencing an 85% increase. Despite these challenges, the industry continues to navigate a difficult year, with balancing budgets while retaining key personnel posing significant obstacles. According to James Payne, acting chief executive and chief financial officer of production company Electra, summer traditionally presents financial difficulties for event businesses, with relatively little cash flow between June and August. The recent disruption has effectively doubled this period, highlighting the need for meticulous purchasing and cost control measures. Shoba Hari, chief executive of Eventlab, emphasized that resilience in the industry is defined by the speed at which businesses can adapt to their environment. She noted that while economic strains, recessions, and supply-chain issues are inevitable, the ability to adapt swiftly to these challenges is crucial for long-term success.",
  "summary": "The cancellation of Abu Dhabi’s Offlimits Festival, headlined by Shakira, has highlighted the risks facing the Middle East live events sector as it contends with regional uncertainty, changing audience behaviour and pressure on cash flow. The Colombian star had been due to headline the event at Etihad Park on Yas Island on November 21, alongside the Jonas Brothers, Ne-Yo and other acts.…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The National UAE",
        "title": "After Shakira and Christina Aguilera cancellations, how UAE live events are adapting",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/19/after-shakira-and-christina-aguilera-cancellations-how-uae-live-1924177",
        "published": "2026-08-19T11:14:55.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}