Abu Dhabi: Global music icon Ricky Martin has been confirmed as one of the headline acts for the 2025–2026 edition of Saadiyat Nights, Abu Dhabi’s premier open-air concert series held on Saadiyat Island.

The multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning superstar will perform in the UAE capital for the first time on 31 January 2026, bringing his signature Latin pop sound and dynamic stage presence to Abu Dhabi. The concert marks a major milestone in Martin’s career, more than three decades after his breakthrough with his self-titled debut album released in 1991.

Widely celebrated as the “King of Latin Pop,” Ricky Martin has played a pivotal role in introducing Latin music and culture to audiences worldwide. In 2025, he was honoured with the inaugural Latin Icon Award at the MTV Video Music Awards, where his performance of classic hits—including the enduring Livin’ la Vida Loca—captured global attention and went viral. Demonstrating the lasting impact of his music, Livin’ la Vida Loca returned to the top of Billboard’s Latin Digital Song Sales chart in September 2025, more than 25 years after its original release.

Over the course of his career, Martin has received more than 180 awards and built a catalogue of globally recognised anthems such as The Cup of Life, María, Vente Pa’Ca, La Mordidita and Vuelve. His unforgettable performance of The Cup of Life at the 1999 Grammy Awards is widely credited with ushering in a new era for Latin artists on the international stage. Renowned for his high-energy performances and sold-out world tours, Martin continues to captivate audiences around the world.

Ricky Martin joins an impressive Saadiyat Nights line-up that already features Italian pianist Ludovico Einaudi on 10 January and Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi on 17 January. Additional artists are set to be announced in the coming weeks, promising an exciting season of live music on Saadiyat Island.

Tickets for Saadiyat Nights 2025–2026 are now available via Ticketmaster.ae.

The Saadiyat Nights team expressed its appreciation to Presenting Partner Emirates NBD for its continued support in delivering world-class entertainment experiences in Abu Dhabi. Thanks were also extended to Aldar, CFI.Trade, Al Masaood Equipment Rental, and Miral for their valued partnerships.