December 2024 Cultural Digest

by Dara Morgan

December 2024 Cultural Digest

10 Dec 2024

As 2024 takes its final bow, let us bid farewell in style. Still putting off gift shopping? No judgement here (our guide will save the day soon). Meanwhile, why not venture out and soak up some culture? From art exhibitions to stadium-filling superstars and festivals that redefine cool, December in Dubai has something for everyone.

Thirty Seconds To Mars

December 12, Coca-Cola Arena

Nearly sold out — though rumour has it a few VIP tickets are still available. Yes, Jared is the talk of the town, but do not forget the music. Fans are in for an electrifying performance, featuring hits from their latest album, including “Stuck,” the soaring anthem “Life Is Beautiful,” and “Midnight Prayer,” with a rare lead vocal by Shannon Leto. Expect a night of pure, high-octane magic.

Source: coca-cola-arena.com

Ricky Martin Live

December 14, Coca-Cola Arena

With Ricky Martin onstage, hips don't lie — nor does his ability to get an entire arena dancing. This Latin pop icon’s setlist will be a dynamic mix of global hits like "Livin' La Vida Loca," "She Bangs," and "Vente Pa' Ca," alongside fresh tracks from his latest album. Prepare yourself for charisma, high-energy, and an unforgettable evening of music and movement.

Source: coca-cola-arena.com

Sole DXB

December 13–15, Dubai Design District

Sneakerheads, music lovers, and fashion aficionados unite — Sole DXB is back! This three-day festival is a vibrant celebration of street culture, with everything from exclusive fashion pop-ups to live performances. Expect an eclectic mix of global and regional artists, including James Blake, Tems, and The Roots. Add art installations, cultural showcases, and mouth-watering food, and you have the recipe for a not-to-be-missed weekend.

Source: dubai.platinumlist.net

Hatta Cultural Nights

December 22 to January 1, Hatta Heritage Village

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the UAE with this enchanting programme. Traditional Emirati performances, Nabati poetry, and folk art come together in a celebration of Hatta’s cultural vibrancy. Browse unique artisanal goods from local businesses, enjoy family-friendly entertainment, and soak in the beauty of this historic village.

Source: dubaiculture.gov.ae

Elvan Alpay: Game Over. Let’s Stop Now!

Until January 1, Sevil Dolmaci Gallery

Elvan Alpay’s first solo exhibition in Dubai, Game Over. Let’s Stop Now!, confronts humanity’s failure to act on climate change. Through 33 striking pieces, Alpay explores the urgency of living sustainably, blending form and colour to deliver both a warning and a plea.

“I did not choose the title Game Over. Let’s Stop Now! for Dubai only,” Alpay explains. “My previous exhibition was called Game Over. Let’s Play! I tried to emphasise the urgency of changes needed to slow down the climate change. We are already undergoing terrible weather conditions which we all feel and see. What as human species are we willing to compromise now? How can we live more sustainably? It is mind-blowing to me how we still believe in growth in human societies… Calling it urgent has not had much of an effect on how we live, so let’s face it, it is over! We will struggle very hard in the coming years. Consequences may not yet be fully known but looking through the projections of climate scientists, the future is nothing but hell. No one can stop unless we all stop.”

Alpay’s art challenges us to rethink modern life’s unsustainable trajectory. Her message is clear: act now, or face dire consequences.

Source: sevildolmaci.com

Marwan Sahmarani: Dirty Mirror Selfie

Until January 15, Leila Heller Gallery

Rooted in his Lebanese heritage and shaped by the region’s political turmoil, Marwan Sahmarani’s Dirty Mirror Selfie offers a raw, visceral reflection on humanity’s beauty and brutality. His works explore the fragility of existence, using flesh as a metaphor for vulnerability and resilience.

Through bold colours and chaotic compositions, Sahmarani captures life’s ecstatic vibrancy alongside the inevitability of death. The “mirror” compels viewers to confront their polished facades and grapple with the unsettling truths within. Both deeply personal and universally resonant, Dirty Mirror Selfie is a stark commentary on civilisation’s fragility, urging us to face the chaos that defines us.

Source: leilahellergallery.com

by Dara Morgan