K-Pop Concert Dubai’s K-pop community is buzzing with excitement. On Saturday, January 3, 2026, two of Asia’s biggest music stars — Chung Ha and Onew — are taking the stage for a completely free concert at Dubai Festival City Mall. If you’re planning to attend, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your evening.
Who’s Performing?
The anticipation of the k-pop concert has fans buzzing with excitement in the lead-up to the event.
Chung Ha: The Solo Sensation
Chung Ha started her career as part of the girl group I.O.I before launching a wildly successful solo career. With over 80 million streams on Spotify, she’s known for massive hits like “Gotta Go,” “Snapping,” and “Roller Coaster.” Recent releases from her mini-album Alivio showcase her evolved artistry and will likely feature in her Festival City setlist.
Onew: The Vocal Powerhouse
Best known as one of the main vocalists for legendary boy band SHINee, Onew has carved out an impressive solo career since 2022. Fans can expect to hear tracks from his latest album Percent alongside his popular solo hits “Animals,” “O (Circle),” and “Beat Drum.”
Concert Details You Need to Know
Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026
Time: 8:30 PM
Location: Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall
Admission: Completely FREE
Pro Tip: Arrive early for the best views
Being part of a k-pop concert is a thrilling experience that fans cherish for a lifetime.
This is a rare opportunity to see both international K-pop artists perform outside of South Korea. Given it’s part of Dubai’s ongoing e& DSF Nights series during the Dubai Shopping Festival, expect good crowds — but the free admission makes it unmissable for K-pop fans in the UAE.
This free k-pop concert is a can’t-miss event for fans across the UAE who love live music.
Expect an electrifying atmosphere at the k-pop concert as fans gather to enjoy the music.
The energy at a k-pop concert is unmatched, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.
What to Expect
After the k-pop concert, continue the fun with dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Chung Ha is known for electrifying, dance-heavy performances that showcase her background in choreography. Onew brings vocal brilliance and emotional connection to his sets. Together, they’ll deliver a night of pure K-pop energy with a mix of chart-toppers and newer releases.
As a bonus, if you’ve been waiting to hear their latest music live, both artists recently released new albums — you’ll likely catch fresh material alongside fan favorites.
Festival City is Packed This Season
If you’re making a full evening of it, Festival City Mall has plenty to explore. Beyond the concert, the Dubai Shopping Festival (running through January 11) is in its 31st season and features shopping, dining, and entertainment throughout the mall.
Where to Eat Before or After the Concert
Arriving early to the k-pop concert will help you secure the best spot to enjoy the show.
Here’s what many K-pop fans don’t realize: some of the best Korean BBQ in Dubai is just a short drive from Festival City. Mukbang Shows Korean BBQ & Seafood in Deira — one of the city’s premier Korean dining destinations — is perfectly positioned for concert-goers wanting authentic Korean food.
Why Mukbang Shows?
Located on Muroor Road in Deira, Mukbang Shows offers an immersive Korean dining experience. Rather than rushing through mall food, grab your group and head to the restaurant for:
- Authentic Korean BBQ: Table-top grilling with premium cuts of beef, chicken, and seafood
- All the Sides: Traditional banchan (Korean side dishes) that complement every meal
- Seafood Specialties: Fresh options that go beyond typical BBQ
- Casual Vibe: Perfect for groups of friends excited about the concert
Distance from Festival City: Less than 10 minutes by car to Deira, making it convenient whether you want to eat before heading to the mall or grab late-night food after the show winds down.
Plan your evening around the k-pop concert for a full night of entertainment.
The Mukbang Experience
Mukbang Shows has become a favorite among Dubai’s Korean food enthusiasts and K-pop fans. The restaurant’s approach to Korean BBQ is straightforward: quality ingredients, proper technique, and the social experience of cooking together at your table. It’s the kind of place where you can have real conversations while grilling, making it ideal for groups of concert buddies.
Be ready for a night filled with amazing performances at the k-pop concert on January 3.
Pro Tips for Concert Day
Make the most of your k-pop concert experience by sharing it with friends.
1. Plan Your Timing
- If eating before: Head to Mukbang Shows in Deira an hour or two before the 8:30 PM showtime, then drive to Festival City
- If eating after: Enjoy the concert, then head to Deira for late-night Korean BBQ (the restaurant accommodates evening crowds)
2. Book in Advance Given the popularity of the concert, reservations are smart, especially if you’re bringing a larger group. Mukbang Shows can handle party sizes, so call ahead to secure your table.
3. Bring Friends Korean BBQ is a social experience — it’s meant for groups. The more people at your table, the more fun the meal becomes.
The excitement of the k-pop concert will leave fans wanting more live performances.
The k-pop concert promises to be a celebration of talent and creativity by Chung Ha and Onew.
4. Bring Cash While most Dubai restaurants accept cards, having cash on hand is always helpful for tips and smaller purchases.
The vibrant atmosphere at a k-pop concert is something every fan should experience.
What Else is Happening in Dubai’s K-Pop Scene?
This January 3 concert is just the beginning. The UAE has become a genuine hotspot for K-pop culture:
- DREAM Concert (Abu Dhabi): Later in the year, Abu Dhabi will host DREAM Concert — one of K-pop’s most iconic festivals — at Yas Island, featuring groups like SEVENTEEN and (G)i-dle
- Hyperound K-Fest (Abu Dhabi): April 2026 brings K-pop artists including ENHYPEN, Ten, and Fifty Fifty to Abu Dhabi
Dubai’s K-pop community is growing rapidly, and events like this free concert reflect the region’s commitment to bringing world-class entertainment to fans.
Final Thoughts
The Chung Ha and Onew concert on January 3 is a gift to Dubai’s K-pop community. It’s free, it features two incredible artists, and it’s happening right here in the Emirates. Whether you’re a longtime K-pop enthusiast or just discovering the genre, this is worth your Saturday evening.
And if you want to turn your concert night into a complete experience, add some authentic Korean BBQ at Mukbang Shows in Deira. It’s the perfect way to extend the K-pop vibe beyond the 8:30 PM curtain call.
Don’t miss the chance to participate in this exciting k-pop concert experience.
Mukbang Shows Korean BBQ & Seafood
📍 Muroor Road, Deira, Abu Dhabi (additional locations in Dubai)
🎤 Perfect for pre-concert or post-concert dining
👥 Great for groups and larger parties
See you at Festival City on January 3 — and maybe at Mukbang Shows before or after!
This k-pop concert will bring fans together for an unforgettable night of music.
