Ed Sheeran to Headline Off Limits Festival in Abu Dhabi with 20+ Artists

Ed Sheeran is set to headline the inaugural Off Limits music festival in Abu Dhabi on April 26, 2025, at Etihad Park. The Shape of You singer will lead a lineup of over 20 artists across two stages, with additional acts to be revealed closer to the event.

Ticket registration opens Wednesday on Platinumlist, followed by pre-sale on Thursday and general sale on Friday at 11 a.m.

In an exclusive interview with The National, Sia Farr, founder of Theory Eleven Entertainment, revealed that the festival will follow an "open format," blending genres like pop, electronic, and hip-hop, alongside regional talent. "It will be the type of festival where mainstream pop transitions into rock and electronic music," said Farr, emphasizing the festival's appeal to Abu Dhabi's diverse audience.

The 12-hour festival will kick off at 2 p.m., with Sheeran performing a full-length set—an unusual feature for festivals, where headliners typically perform shorter sets. Sheeran will bring a new stage design for the festival, departing from his bespoke circular stage used in his previous Dubai shows. The two-stage design, crafted by German designer Florian Wieder (known for Adele's Munich residency), will provide a modern and cohesive experience.

Partnered with DCT Abu Dhabi, the festival adds to the city's growing reputation as a cultural and entertainment hub. Farr also highlighted the economic benefits of festivals, noting that Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a prime destination for tourism and large-scale events