If you’ve been looking for a reason to head down to the water this January, here it is. Dubai is about to get a serious dose of “Hallyu” energy as two of South Korea’s most respected soloists, Chung Ha and Onew, prepare to take over the stage at Dubai Festival City Mall.
As part of the 31st season of the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), the “e& DSF Nights” series is bringing this high-octane performance to Festival Bay on Saturday, January 3, 2026. The best part for everyone’s wallet? It’s completely free to attend. Whether you’re a die-hard “Shawol” or you’ve had Chung Ha’s hits on repeat since her I.O.I days, this is the outdoor event of the winter season you simply can’t miss.
Meet the Headliners: Chung Ha and Onew
The lineup for this one-night-only spectacle features two artists who have been working incredibly hard throughout 2025.
Chung Ha is a literal powerhouse. If you haven’t seen her perform, you’re in for a treat; she is widely regarded as one of the best dancers in the industry. After making her mark in the project group I.O.I, she branched out to become a solo queen with hits like Gotta Go, Snapping, and Roller Coaster. Fans in Dubai will likely get to hear tracks from her 2025 mini-album, Alivio, which showed a much more mature and artistic side of the singer.
Joining her is the legendary Onew, the leader and main vocalist of the iconic boy band SHINee. While he’s a veteran in the K-pop world, his solo career has really hit a new stride recently. Fresh off the release of his second studio album, Percent, Onew has been winning hearts with songs like Animals and Beat Drum. Known for that uniquely soothing yet powerful voice, his performance under the Dubai stars is expected to be a real “vibey” highlight of the night.
Expectations from e& DSF Nights
The concert is set to kick off at 8:30 PM, but if you’ve spent any time at Festival Bay during a major event, you know the drill: arrive early. The venue is famous for its “IMAGINE” show—that record-breaking display of light, fire, and water—which will serve as the backdrop for the night’s festivities.
The atmosphere at Festival City during DSF is always a bit special. Between the massive sales happening inside the mall and the food trucks along the waterfront, it’s the ultimate spot for a weekend hangout. For anyone looking for things to do in Dubai that feel world-class but don’t cost a Dirham, this is it.
Pro Tip: Residents are also keeping a close eye on local news regarding the upcoming “K-City” project—a dedicated hub for Korean culture set to launch in the UAE soon. This concert feels like the perfect warm-up for what’s coming.
A Busy Season for Korean Culture in the UAE
This free show isn’t just a one-off; it’s part of a much bigger trend. The UAE has firmly established itself as a global tour stop, recently hosting massive events like the WATERBOMB festival and the DREAM Concert.
If you find yourself wanting more after the January 3 show, keep your calendars marked for the return of Hyperound K-Fest in Abu Dhabi this April. With a lineup featuring Enhypen, Ten (NCT/WayV), and Fifty Fifty, the momentum for Korean music in the Emirates is at an all-time high. It’s clear that the demand for these shows is helping shape the Travel and entertainment landscape of the city, attracting fans from all over the GCC.
Planning Your Visit: Parking and Logistics
Since this event falls on a Saturday during the peak of the shopping festival, the area is going to be packed. Here’s how to handle it like a local:
- Transport: While there is plenty of parking at Dubai Festival City Mall, it fills up fast. Using a taxi or Careem is a smart move to avoid the post-concert exit rush.
- The View: As a free public event, it is standing room only at Festival Bay. Wear your most comfortable sneakers because you’ll be on your feet.
- Dinner Plans: There are dozens of restaurants overlooking the bay—perfect for a quick bite or a lifestyle experience before the 8:30 PM start.
Don’t Miss the Beat
Dubai continues to prove that it is the entertainment capital of the region, blending retail therapy with world-class music. The combination of Chung Ha’s energy and Onew’s vocal prowess makes this one of the most anticipated events of the month. Whether you are a resident or just visiting for the winter, head down to Festival Bay for a night of music, fireworks, and community spirit.
Read More: What to Expect at the 2025 Festival This December
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