Dubai will come alive on August 9, 2025, as Kingdom Festival debuts at Dubai World Trade Centre. Headlined by Grammy-winner Zakes Bantwini and global Amapiano star Uncle Waffles, the event promises electrifying performances, African beats, immersive visuals, and a vibrant celebration of culture.
This summer, the UAE’s cultural melting pot will embrace the vibrant rhythms of Africa as Kingdom Festival makes its grand debut at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Friday, August 9, 2025. The event is being hailed as one of the most anticipated music festivals of the year, promising an exhilarating fusion of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and dance culture that will keep the city grooving all night long.
Dubai World Trade Centre
Headlining the star-studded lineup are two of South Africa’s most celebrated musical exports: Zakes Bantwini, the Grammy Award-winning artist famed for his soulful beats and genre-bending style, and Uncle Waffles, the DJ and producer whose Amapiano sets have taken the global music scene by storm. Their performances are expected to deliver a masterclass in live energy, blending infectious basslines, hypnotic rhythms, and show-stopping visuals.
But Kingdom Festival is more than just a concert—it’s a cultural experience. The organisers are pulling out all the stops to create a full-scale festival atmosphere inside one of Dubai’s most iconic venues. Expect state-of-the-art lighting displays, immersive stage design, and a sound system built to make every beat resonate. The event will also feature live dance troupes, roaming performers, and a curated selection of food stalls serving authentic African cuisine, giving attendees a taste of the continent’s culinary richness alongside its musical heritage.
“Kingdom Festival is about bringing the heartbeat of Africa to the heart of Dubai,” said the festival’s creative director. “Our goal is to create a space where cultures meet, music unites, and the spirit of celebration takes over.”
The timing couldn’t be better. Afrobeats, once a regional sound, has become a global music powerhouse, dominating charts from Lagos to London, while Amapiano’s smooth grooves have carved out a passionate international fan base. Dubai, known for its cosmopolitan energy and love for world-class entertainment, is the perfect stage for this fusion of genres.
Event Details at a Glance:
Date: Friday, August 9, 2025
Venue: Dubai World Trade Centre
Headliners: Zakes Bantwini, Uncle Waffles
With limited capacity and high demand, organisers are urging music lovers to secure their tickets early to avoid disappointment. For those seeking a night of electrifying performances, pulsating beats, and a celebration of African culture in the UAE, Kingdom Festival 2025 is not to be missed.
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