Top Musician in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a vibrant hub for musical talent, showcasing an array of genres and styles. Over the past decade, the music scene in the UAE has evolved significantly, with a growing number of local artists gaining recognition both regionally and internationally. This development is marked by an increase in original music production, live performances, and collaborations across various genres, including rock, hip-hop, pop, and electronic music. Major events and festivals, such as the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Festival and the Dubai World Music Festival, provide platforms for both established and emerging musicians to showcase their work. This article highlights some of the top musicians in the UAE who are shaping the sound of this dynamic cultural environment.

* Arqam

Arqam is an Emirati neo-soul singer known for his ability to seamlessly blend traditional Arabic influences with modern R&B and soul. His tracks often explore themes of positivity, love, introspection, and purpose, resonating with diverse audiences. Arqam has performed on some of the most prestigious stages in the UAE, including the Expo 2020 Dubai, where his live rendition of Waves of Change earned widespread acclaim for its uplifting and soothing composition. He was also a prominent performer at the Abu Dhabi Games, where he promoted values like tolerance, peace, and environmental stewardship. Among his recognized works are singles such as All I've Been and Mr & Mrs Smith, as well as collaborations like Last Confessions featuring Noush Like Sploosh and Ghoshpop. Other tracks include New Dawn, part of Hekayat Symphonic Tales, Simmer Down, and Leaving. Arqam’s music aims to convey values of peace, understanding, and environmental stewardship, showcasing the essence of Emirati culture on a global stage.

* Saud Garima

Saud Garima, also known as Saud G is an Emirati hip-hop artist. His music blends traditional Arabic influences with modern hip-hop beats, addressing themes of youth culture, identity, and social issues. Saud's notable tracks include Blue, featuring MIAME, and Mawjood (موجود), a collaboration with Ahmedoo Biggie. He has performed at events like the Sikka Art Festival, Sole DXB, and Bred Abu Dhabi, establishing himself as a leading voice in the UAE's hip-hop scene.

* Hasan Malik

Hasan Malik, a 17-year-old American-born musician based in Dubai, has gained acclaim for his blend of soul and modern R&B. After winning the Yasalam AE Emerging Talent Competition in Abu Dhabi, he performed at Virgin Radio's RedFest DXB, sharing the stage with global acts like Coldplay and Rihanna. His five-track EP, We Are Young, recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London, showcases his heartfelt lyrics, memorable melodies, and growing influence in the UAE's music landscape. His debut EP We Are Young, recorded at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, showcases a fusion of pop and indie influences. Tracks like Youth Unchained and Skyline Dreams reflect themes of freedom, ambition, and the complexities of adolescence.

* Jamil Jabbour

Jamil Jabbour is a Lebanese singer, songwriter, and guitarist who was born and raised in Dubai. With over a decade of experience, he has built a reputation for his distinctive voice and engaging performances. Jabbour first gained widespread recognition as the runner-up in the 2016 Yasalam AE Emerging Talent Competition at Beats on the Beach, where he also opened for Coldplay with his band, Inition. He has performed at venues across the UAE, including The Food Truck Jam, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Stereo Arcade, and du Arena. Jabbour’s music blends various genres, resonating with a diverse audience, and he is known for his emotionally charged lyrics and rich melodies, as seen in tracks like Whispered Echoes and Journey’s End.

* Mustafa Ismail (FREEK)

Mustafa Ismail, professionally known as FREEK, is a Somali-born rapper who grew up in Abu Dhabi, UAE. FREEK has gained recognition for blending traditional Arabic influences with contemporary hip-hop elements. His breakout hit Wala Kilma, garnered over a million views on YouTube. FREEK has performed at major events, including the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix After-Race concert and Sole DXB, where his stage presence was evident, particularly during his performance of Hada Ana. He is committed to rapping in Arabic, aiming to represent his cultural roots and further popularize Arabic hip-hop. His upcoming album 150, set for release in January 2025, is anticipated to further solidify his place in the regional music landscape.

* Moh Flow

Moh Flow, born Molham Homsi, is a Syrian-born, Dubai-based rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer who has been active in the music industry since the mid-2000s. His music is inspired from 90s R&B to contemporary rap. His music often blends melodic rap with emotionally charged lyrics, reflecting personal experiences and growth. He released three mixtapes—Nothing Personal, Peace Love & Music, and Born Ready—before debuting his full-length album This Is Yo(u) in late 2022. The album marked a shift towards a more mature sound, with tracks like All the Way referencing his experiences in Dubai. Moh Flow is known for his collaborative efforts with his older brother, AY, a music producer. Moh Flow has performed at key events such as the Step Music Festival in Dubai and continues to gain recognition for his contributions to the UAE's dynamic music scene.

* Tayeb Santo

Tayeb Santo is an emerging artist in the Arab hip-hop scene, known for his innovative blend of various Arabic dialects and musical influences. Born in Algeria and raised in Sharjah, UAE, Santo's diverse musical identity is shaped by his experiences living in Malaysia, the USA, and the UK. He began his musical journey in 2016, recognizing the growing influence of hip-hop in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Santo's work showcases his ability to combine catchy hooks with pulsating beats. His single MajaNeeN, reflects global influences such as DJ Kaytranada. He stands out as a versatile lyricist, and is fluent in multiple Arabic dialects, including Arabic Fusha, Algerian Darija, Emirati, and Egyptian. Santo has performed at venues and festivals across Dubai, establishing himself as a dynamic and engaging artist. His collaboration with brands, such as creating a track for du, has further cemented his place in the UAE's evolving music landscape.

* Yaseen Adam (Adamillion)

Yaseen Adam, known by his stage name Adamillion, is a Somali-born rapper and songwriter based in Dubai, UAE. Beginning his musical journey at the age of 15 in 2006, Adamillion has developed a distinctive style marked by his ability to seamlessly blend Arabic, English, and Somali in his lyrics. This multilingual approach has enabled him to connect with a broad audience across the region, making him a notable figure in the underground Arabic hip-hop scene. His tracks, such as Add-A-Million, highlight his lyrical dexterity and unique sound. Adamillion has participated in various music events and collaborations, further establishing his presence in the local music landscape. His work often explores cultural themes and personal narratives, solidifying his role in the evolving hip-hop genre within the UAE.

* Nikhil Uzgare

Nikhil Uzgare is a Dubai-based singer-songwriter and musician known for his contributions to both the rock genre and Bollywood music. Born and raised in Mumbai, India, Uzgare began his musical career in 2005 and quickly established himself as a versatile artist. He is best known as the frontman of the award-winning rock band Point of View, which gained significant recognition after opening for major international acts such as Guns N' Roses and Foo Fighters. Uzgare also made his mark in Bollywood as the voice behind the title theme of the Hindi film Irada. He further expanded his musical footprint with his debut single Inteha, which blends modern rock influences and received positive acclaim. Uzgare is signed to Universal Music MENA, becoming the first Hindi artist to join the label.

* Jerome Deligero

Jerome Deligero is a Dubai-based Filipino multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and guitarist, known for his blend of pop and indie pop music. Born and raised in Dubai, Deligero's musical journey began at the age of 13, starting with piano lessons before transitioning to drums and guitar. His early experiences performing in church, where his father was the musical director, laid the foundation for his career. By the age of 16, Deligero had written and performed his first original song, marking the beginning of his professional journey. Over the years, he has honed his craft and gained recognition in the Dubai music scene, performing at various events and opening for notable artists, including British pop singer Jacob Collier at Dubai’s Expo. His set at the Dubai Jazz Festival, featuring a moving rendition of Reflections in the Rain, underscores his reputation as one of the UAE’s most promising musical talents.