Liverpool crowd-work star Paul Smith to take the stage at Etihad Arena in January 2027.
Fair warning, Abu Dhabi: if you’re sitting near the front at Etihad Arena this January, you could find yourself becoming part of the show.
Liverpool comedian Paul Smith is joining the lineup for the third edition of Abu Dhabi Comedy Season. He will perform at Etihad Arena on January 31, 2027, bringing his quick-fire humour and trademark crowd work to the UAE.
If you’ve spent any time on comedy TikTok or Instagram in recent years, you’ve probably come across Paul Smith’s viral crowd-work clips. Known for turning casual conversations with audience members into hilarious, unpredictable exchanges, the Liverpool comedian has built a strong following through his appearances at Hot Water Comedy Club.
Smith’s style relies heavily on quick thinking and spontaneous interaction rather than scripted material. That unpredictability is part of his appeal — no two shows are quite the same because every audience brings something different. Etihad Arena will get to experience that trademark crowd work live in January.
He joins a lineup that is shaping up to be one of the strongest yet, with previously announced comedians including Morgan Jay, Maz Jobrani, Mo Amer and Russell Peters. The show is part of the third edition of Abu Dhabi Comedy Season, produced by Live Nation Middle East in partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism and Miral.
Following two editions featuring sold-out performances and major international comedy acts, the latest season is bringing another mix of global talent to the capital, with Smith’s unpredictable crowd work adding a different energy to the programme.
The details
Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Date: January 31, 2027
Getting tickets
Mastercard holders get early access, with the general presale running from Tuesday, August 25, at 12pm until Thursday, August 27, at 12pm.
Holders of World, World Elite and World Legend Mastercard cards received earlier access from July 27 at 12pm.
