Mary J. Blige’s long-awaited return to Dubai has been called off, leaving fans disappointed and searching for answers.
The R&B legend and Grammy-winning star was due to perform at Coca-Cola Arena on Tuesday, 24 June, in what would have been her first full concert in the UAE in more than a decade. But in a last-minute change, the event has been officially cancelled.
Both Coca-Cola Arena and Live Nation Middle East—the show’s promoter—have quietly removed the listing from their websites. Ticket holders received email confirmation of the cancellation, with organisers citing only “unforeseen circumstances” and promising full refunds.
No further explanation has been offered.
A missed milestone for Dubai’s music scene
Blige’s return was being hailed as a major moment for the region’s growing live music scene. With over 100 million records sold, nine Grammy Awards, and two Oscar nominations, Mary J. Blige is a towering figure in modern music—and a hero to R&B fans worldwide.
Her 2024 Dubai show was set to mark a triumphant comeback, 11 years after her last full performance in the city. Excitement had been building for weeks across fan pages and local media, with many calling it one of the most anticipated gigs of the summer.
Will the gig be rescheduled?
So far, there’s been no word on whether the show will be rescheduled. Fans remain hopeful that Mary J. Blige will return to the UAE sooner rather than later.
In the meantime, those who bought tickets will automatically be refunded via their original point of purchase.
