Everything You Need to Know About BRED Abu Dhabi 2026
BRED Abu Dhabi brings together regional and international music, visual art, independent fashion labels, food pop-ups and creative experiences at Etihad Live this November.
Image courtesy of BRED Abu Dhabi
Ready for a burst of culture in Abu Dhabi? BRED Abu Dhabi returns to Yas Island on 13 and 14 November, bringing two days of music, art, fashion, food, sport and creative experiences to Etihad Live.
This special edition of BRED Abu Dhabi truly caters to everyone, with international music acts, regional artists, a new gallery space, a photography book celebrating the region’s visual culture, over 30 local and regional brands, food collaborations, and interactive installations.
What's new at BRED Abu Dhabi 2026?
Visual art also takes centre stage, with a strong line-up of artists and creative installations to discover.
One of this year's highlights is the BRED Neo Gallery, which will host the launch of Forward, Forward, Forward, a limited-edition photography book created in collaboration with Middle East Archive. Featuring regional photographers and image-makers, the publication explores the people, perspectives, and visual culture shaping the region today.
Film and interactive art also feature in the program. Image Nation Studios presents Step Into the Story, an installation made up of stacked retro televisions combining film visuals with live camera feeds. Visitors become part of the experience, appearing on screen from different angles and stepping into their own cinematic moment.
Who's playing at BRED Abu Dhabi 2026?
Music is at the heart of BRED Abu Dhabi, with a lineup that brings together homegrown talent, regional favourites, and international names.
Friday 13 November puts the spotlight on the regional music scene. Bu Kolthoum and Zaid Khaled are joined by Lege-Cy, Shkoon, Nooriyah, and AYA System, alongside UAE artists Saud G, Bu Saleh, and Tayeb Santo, with DJ Hussob also taking to the stage. Expect a mix of hip-hop, alternative sounds, and electronic music, with influences stretching across the Arab region and beyond.
Saturday 14 November welcomes international headliners Bryson Tiller and British rapper Central Cee. Egyptian pop artist Nasser and R&B and neo-soul singer Nadine El Roubi complete the programme on the AMP Stage. Abu Dhabi-born DJ Nuff Said will also bring his NXT LVL brand and collective to the afterparty.
Fashion, design and independent brands
Beyond the music, the BRED Abu Dhabi Concept Store is worth setting aside some time for. Bringing together more than 30 local and regional brands, the retail space spans streetwear, vintage, beauty, accessories and homeware, offering a closer look at the independent labels and designers shaping the region's creative landscape.
Among the names to look out for are Emirati streetwear brand Freej, vintage specialists Efaar Vintage, print-led fashion studio PRNTCODE and heritage-inspired Argoub Club. New additions include Nasnusa, which brings together sculptural art and functional accessories, and THEFUTUREISBRIGHT, a Dubai-born eyewear concept giving vintage and pre-owned sunglasses a new lease of life.
Palestinian streetwear label FOVERO will present Mazaj Arabi (Arabic Mood), a collection inspired by Arab streets, cafés, music, and everyday memories. Meanwhile, Ajdadi brings the centuries-old tradition of Tatreez hand-embroidery into contemporary design, keeping traditional motifs and stories alive through its work.
Food, collaborations, and more
There will be plenty to discover between performances, with a selection of food collaborations and homegrown favourites joining the festival. Highlights include Marmellata x Barbassi Slice Shop, Why Not's signature mini burgers in a cup, and an exclusive Bayna x Seven Dawgs collaboration.
Holy Smokes and Dalia Bagel Bar will also be there, alongside Cowabunga, a Made in Abu Dhabi experience bringing together Burnt Butter, Mina Creamery and El Botik. Visitors can also try Barjis and Fowli, both making their Abu Dhabi debuts, while Ugly Noodles introduces its first-ever BBQ concept.
Sport is part of the programme, too, with the Red Bull Half Court National Championship Finals taking place on Friday 13 November.
When and where is BRED Abu Dhabi 2026?
BRED Abu Dhabi takes place at Etihad Live on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 November 2026. Tickets are now on sale, with prices starting from AED 195.
A special edition ahead of the festival's return in April 2027, BRED Abu Dhabi brings together music, art, fashion, food, and sport for two days celebrating the people and creative communities shaping the region.
Visit: bredabudhabi.com