Dubai: Anxiety over the spread of the coronavirus has already disrupted nurseries, travel, and some trade events in the UAE.
A World Health Organization official said Friday, “We are on the highest level of alert or highest level of risk assessment in terms of spread and in terms of impact …. Wake up. Get ready. This virus may be on its way and you need to be ready.”
Find out which ones are still on.
What’s been postponed so far?
ATM
Arabian Travel Market, the leading global event for the Middle East inbound and outbound travel industry for the last 27 years, has postponed their event amid concerns about the ongoing health crisis. The updated dates are June 29 to July 1, 2020.
Their Statement:
"Reed Travel Exhibitions has announced that it has postponed Arabian Travel Market (ATM) to 28th June – 1st July 2020, at the Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai, U.A.E.
We at Arabian Travel Market want to express our concern for everyone impacted by coronavirus. Like all of you, we have carefully monitored the global health crisis related to COVID-19 coronavirus. Our top priority is the health and safety of everyone involved in Arabian Travel Market; employees, partners, customers and exhibitors.
Due to the escalation of the COVID-19 epidemic around the world, after consultation with all our stakeholders, the venue management, supporting associations, and in alignment with the advice from the UAE public health authorities regarding travel to and from impacted countries, we have taken the decision to postpone our event which was due to take place on 19 – 22 April 2020 in Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
Whilst the UAE is following the strictest medical and hygiene protocols in line with international standards, we have made this decision in the best interest of the industry to enable us to organise an event which provides effective participation and experience for all. The announcement has been made at the earliest opportunity to give as much notice as possible to all stakeholders enabling them to make the necessary arrangements to reschedule their plans, and ensure even stronger attendance in June.
We are fully aware of the important role that ATM 2020 plays for industry professionals across the Middle East region and beyond, we are grateful for the full endorsement that we have received from our customers and partners.
Moving forward, we are continuing to liaise directly with all relevant United Arab Emirates and Dubai authorities on a regular basis, whilst monitoring and complying with the World Health Organisation guidance, and rest assured we will keep you informed of any new developments as we receive them
Our thoughts are with all those affected in these difficult times."
Holi Masti 2020
Holi Masti 2020, which featured Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor and DJ Nucleya in concert has been cancelled. Organisers have confirmed the event, celebrating the Hindu festival of colours, has been cancelled over the Covid-19 restrictions.
Their Statement:
“Holi Masti 2020 featuring Bollywood singer Kanika Kapoor and DJ Nucleya has been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Giorgio Armani show
The Giorgio Armani Cruise Show 2021, which was scheduled to take place on April 19 and 20 in Dubai has now been postponed to November.
Art Dubai
The annual global art fair scheduled to take place on March 25 to 28, 2020 has been postponed. They have announced plans for new Dubai-focused programme in its place.
Their Statement:
In consideration of the on-going global health implications of the Coronavirus and having consulted with our partners and stakeholders, Art Dubai today announces that the 14th edition of the international art fair, scheduled for 25 – 28th March 2020, will be postponed.
Given the essential role the fair plays in promoting local and regional artists, we have made the decision to stage a programme tailored to the local cultural community instead, including existing fair programme contributors and thought-leaders.
Should the situation allow, the new format to run on the same dates, will present events, exhibitions, talks and strands of the existing Art Dubai programme. These will include local and regional gallery presentations, Global Art Forum, Residents and Campus Art Dubai. The goals and ambitions for this re-configured programme maintain our objective to deliver commercial, institutional and critical engagement with Dubai’s art ecosystem – a commitment of support to our local community that we felt an imperative to uphold.
Further details of the programme will be announced in due course. With Dubai deploying the strictest medical and hygiene protocols, we will welcome international visitors in March, recommending that individuals follow advice from the authorities of their resident countries.
Lastly, we would also like to express our sincere thanks for all the support and understanding we have received from our partners and friends over the past week. Our thoughts are with everyone globally who has been affected by the virus.
Taste of Dubai
One of the city’s favourite food, drink and music festival, has been postponed. It was meant to be held from March 12 to 14, 2020. The three day food event has been moved to December.
Their Statement:
“Due to the continued global developments regarding the COVID-19 (coronavirus) and following precautionary measures being implemented by the UAE government, this year’s Taste of Dubai 2020 at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre has been postponed from March 12-14, and will be extended for an additional day and take place December 9–12, 2020. This decision was made after much consideration and consultation with our key partners and clients, and with the health and safety of our attendees, exhibitors and staff as our top priority,” the statement continues, adding: “We believe this postponement is in the best interest of all participants to ensure we most effectively meet the needs of our clients, and thousands of local and international people of all ages who attend the largest food, music and entertainment event in the city.”
Club Social 2020
The Club Social 2020 Music Festival, which was meant to take place at Yas Island, with headliners Liam Gallagher, Kaiser Chiefs and Clean Bandit, on March 12 to 14, has been postponed to later in the year.
Their Statement:
"Out of concern for the health and well-being of our attendees, Club Social 2020 has been postponed until further notice. Club Social 2020, which was scheduled to take place from March 12 to 14 at Yas Links, Yas Island, with headliners Liam Gallagher, Kaiser Chiefs and Clean Bandit will now take place at a later date this year. This decision is the result of careful assessment and consultation with leading entities in Abu Dhabi. Ticket-holders who purchased their tickets from TicketMaster will be reimbursed. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and reassure fans that a new date for the festival will be announced soon. Stay tuned and connected through Facebook and Instagram to be the first one to know Club Social’s new date."
K-POP Music Bank Concert
Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena was gearing up to host a K-Pop extravaganza on the weekend of March 20 - 21, however the concert on March 21 has been indefinitely postponed. The Saturday concert ‘Music Bank in Dubai’ will be moved, however the event on the 20th will remain as is.
Statement from the event organisers:
“In light of the global developments around the COVID-19 virus, and the increasing number of infections confirmed in South Korea, MAKESTAR and the Korea Broadcasting System (KBS), have taken the prudent decision to postpone ‘Music Bank in Dubai’ scheduled for March 21 at the Coca-Cola Arena. This is to ensure an uncompromisingly high standard of experience for all and to secure the best talents to perform for the large fan base across the region.”
Ultra Abu Dhabi 2020
The event, which was set to take place on March 5 and 6 has been postponed to a later date. Organisers issued a statement on Monday night.
Their Statement:
"In line with our commitment to deliver the ultimate Ultra experience to our festival goers and as part of the local and international measures taken to ensure the health and safety of the public, Ultra Abu Dhabi 2020 will be postponed. The decision has been taken due to the travel restrictions imposed by some countries and airlines for individuals and groups. We look forward to sharing the new dates in the near future."
Dubai Lynx
The event, which was set to take place on March 8 to 11. Dubai Lynx is an event that brings together top creatives, international brands to learn, network and celebrate creativity in communications.
Their Statement:
“In light of recent developments in respect to COVID-19 we have taken the difficult decision to postpone the Dubai Lynx Festival. As a festival, our priority is absolutely the safety of our attendees, delegates and team. We are going to reschedule the festival to 6-9 September 2020.
Please note that all entries will be valid for the new festival dates along with passes and awards seats purchased. We will keep you updated with further information.”
Dubai International Boat Show
The year’s most prestigious marine events, which was meant to take place on March 10 to March 14, has been postponed to November 24-28.
Their Statement:
In light of the evolving global developments around the COVID-19 virus, Dubai World Trade Centre has been closely monitoring the situation, particularly as it pertains to our key stakeholders and participating delegations from around the world across all our upcoming shows. Whilst the UAE remains completely safe for travel, and has deployed the strictest medical and hygiene protocols, we fully recognise that for some specific shows, we have a high majority of key participants significant to the event’s programme that are unable to travel due to restrictions in their home country. As such, we have been working closely to assure that our clients’ needs are most effectively addressed, and the delivery of strong international participation considered, in these extraordinary times.
Bearing this context, the Dubai International Boat Show, the MENA’s largest leisure boating event and one of the world’s most influential gatherings for the global yachting community, is being postponed from 10-14 March to 24-28 November 2020 and will be located at its new home - Dubai Harbour, the region’s largest luxury marina and most advanced cruise terminal.
DJ Mag Conference
DJ Mag Conference was supposed to take place on March 3 to 4. They had to cancel their event, mainly because the event location, The W Hotel Yas Island was placed under quarantine and temporary lockdown, when two staff members were tested positive for the coronavirus.
Their Statement:
Following the decision by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi to place the W hotel – Yas Island on temporary lockdown, we regret to inform you that the DJMag Conference due to take place on Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th March 2020 will be cancelled. We will contact all ticket holders for refunds. If you have any queries, please email us.”
International Triathlon Union Abu Dhabi 2020
The International Triathlon Union was due to take place from March 5 to March 7 on Yas Island, in Abu Dhabi, where some cases were reported in the last few days. However the event was postponed.
Their Statement:
“The International Triathlon Union, in consultation with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, has taken the decision to postpone the 2020 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Paratriathlon World Cup and Abu Dhabi Mixed Relay event as a precautionary measure to reduce the spread of 2019-nCoV Coronavirus. The event was Although the Abu Dhabi authorities are working on measures so that the safety of all the athletes, coaches and officials participating in the event is the main concern, due to the new World Health Organization recommendations and the spread of the virus, ITU and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council have jointly agreed to postpone the event.
ITU, the local organizing committee and Abu Dhabi Sports Council are looking at possible dates for relocating the event later on in March or April.
Around 300 elite athletes and more than 2500 age group athletes and scholars were planned to toe the start line in all the different WTS Abu Dhabi events next week. All participants will be immediately informed of the postponement, and will be advised of the new dates as soon as agreed.
Travel restrictions and quarantines imposed by some countries and airlines for individuals and groups travelling from or to areas affected by the outbreak make it impossible to go ahead with the event in the planned dates, but all stakeholders are working tirelessly against the clock to find a new date to host the event. The whole World Triathlon Family, including our athletes, coaches, officials, staff and volunteers, consider the WTS Abu Dhabi one of the most outstanding events in the calendar and we all want to continue to work together to provide an excellent event for all athletes to shine and for Abu Dhabi to show their excellency organizing sport events.”
Big Ticket Draw
The Big Ticket draw held every third day of a month in Abu Dhabi will be closed to public viewing — but will still be held as a live streaming event on Tuesday, March 3. This is a precautionary measure, organisers said, considering events surrounding public health and safety amid coronavirus fears.
Dubai Chess Open 2020
The Dubai Open 2020 chess tournament has been postponed indefinitely.
Their Statement:
"With due regards to the safe and healthy environment worldwide and Dubai, we regret to inform you that we have cancelled Dubai Open 2020 because of the global concern regarding the coronavirus outbreak, travel concern and other circumstances, makes it impossible for us to hold the event. Our sympathies at this time are with those affected all around the world."
Global Forum in Innovations in Agriculture
The event which was taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from the March 9-10, has been postponed to the end of summer.
Their Statement:
"In consultation with our strategic partners the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) and Apimondia, we have been closely monitoring the global developments surrounding the COVID-19 virus and how it pertains to key industry stakeholders and participating delegations from around the world for GFIA, Cold Chain Expo, Api-Arab and the Apimondia Symposium (the Events).
Whilst the UAE remains completely safe for travel, and has deployed the strictest medical and hygiene protocols, the series of Events has a high majority of international participants and large international delegations. In order to ensure we most effectively meet the needs of our clients, and ensure the delivery of strong international participation, it has been decided that the Events are to be postponed and they will now take place from the 31st August to the 2nd September at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi.
We look forward to welcoming visitors to Abu Dhabi and the Global Forum for Innovations in Agriculture, Cold Chain Expo, Api-Arab and the Apimondia Symposium from the 31st August to the 2nd September 2020."
Events still on:
This list will be updated regularly as and when we receive news of postponement or cancellation.
AGRA Middle East Exhibition 2020, Dubai World Trade Centre from 03-05 March 2020
So far still on.
Their Statement:
AgraME is closely monitoring developments of the Novel Coronavirus, which first emerged from Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The health and safety of our customers and colleagues is always our top priority. As such, we are following all safety advice and precautions as recommended by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Middle East Energy Exhibition 2020, Dubai World Trade Centre from 03-05 March 2020
So far still on.
Their Statement:
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to MEE 2020 which is going ahead as scheduled from 3 – 5 March at Dubai World Trade Centre. As always, the health and safety of our customers and teams is our top priority, as well as providing a great experience. In light of developments with the Covid-19 coronavirus, with our partners at DWTC, we’re staying up-to-date and closely following all the official advice and guidance of the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).”
Based on their current guidance, you will see a range of additional safety measures at MEE 2020, including:
• Thermal cameras at all entry points to capture the temperature of every visitor entering the venue
• Dedicated screening rooms
• Deployment of hand sanitisers in public areas, registration points, conference rooms, cafes, offices and on exhibitors stands. Sanitising hand gel will also be distributed to visitors at the registration areas
• Regular deep cleaning and sanitation throughout the venue
• Air extraction every 4 hours throughout the venue
Expo Culinaire, Sharjah Expo Centre, 03-05 March 2020
So far still on.
They are even hosting a live case study. Hospitality Hygiene Protocols during a Health Crisis: Safety with continuity for Guests and Businesses in the Hospitality Sector during Virus outbreaks (using COVID-19 as a Live case study) An International expert presentation followed by a panel discussion and Q&A for Senior Hospitality Delegates.
Katherine Jenkins live, Dubai Opera, 04 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
WAN-IFRA Middle East Conference 2020, Dubai Knowledge Park, 04 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
International Government Communication Forum, Sharjah Expo Centre, 04-05 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Lea Salonga, Dubai Opera, 05-06 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Middle East Film & Comic Con, Dubai World Trade Centre, 05-07 March 2020
So far still on.
Their Statement:
“We genuinely care about the health and safety of our visitors, would like to assure you that the UAE, Dubai World Trade Centre and us as the organisers of Middle East Film & Comic Con have taken all the precautionary measures for your safety. We have various hand sanitisers at your disposal around DWTC and MEFCC along with thermal cameras, the area will be cleaned regularly and we have paramedics onsite as well. Airports are taking precautionary measures too and screening international visitors as they enter the country.”
Our visitors are advised to:
• Wash your hands frequently
• Practice respiratory hygiene
• Cover mouth & nose when coughing or sneezing with a tissue & immediately throw into a bin
• Seek medical assistance if you develop any of the known symptoms
Acres Real Estate Investment Exhibition, Sharjah Expo Centre, 05-07 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Holi, IMG Worlds of Adventure, 06 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Dubai World Cup Carnival, Meydan Racecourse, 07 March 2020
Definitely on
No statement received.
Official Abu Dhabi Music Week Pool Party, Saadiyat Beach Club , Saadiyat Island 07 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Global Women Leaders Conference, Roda Al Murooj Downtown Dubai, 08-09 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
VIV MEA 2020, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, 09-11 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Middle East Coatings Show 2020, Dubai World Trade Centre, 09-11 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Paperworld Middle East & Playworld Middle East 2020, Dubai World Trade Centre, 09-11 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Leatherworld Middle East 2020 Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre 09-11 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Hamdan International Photography Award Ceremony, Dubai Opera, 10 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Gipsy Kings live Dubai Opera, 12 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Dubai Coffee Festival, Dubai World Trade Centre, 12-14 March 2020
Definitely on.
Club Social 2020, Yas Links, Yas Island, 12-14 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Dubai International Horse Fair, Dubai World Trade Centre, 12-14 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Al Ain Run Race Al Ain Cycling Track, 13 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Holi Hai, Al Mamzar Beach Park, 13 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Holi Masti in Dubai, The Track, Meydan Golf, 13 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Clorox Holi Beach Party, JA The Resort, 13 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Dubai International Wood & Wood Machinery Show 2020, Dubai World Trade Centre, 16-18 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Arab Lab Exhibition 2020, Dubai World Trade Centre, 16-18 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Global Aerospace Summit 2020, St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, 17-19 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
International Exhibition of National Security & Resilience, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, 17-19 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Sharjah Children`s Reading Festival, Sharjah Expo Centre , 18-28 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Emirates Haematology Congress 2020, InterContinental Dubai, Festival City, 19-21 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
SIKKA Art Festival Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, 19-29 March 2020 So far still on.
No statement received.
Abu Dhabi Terry Fox Run 40th Anniversary, Corniche Beach, 20 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Junoon live, Global Village, 20 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
K-Pop Super Concert, Coca-Cola Arena, 20 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Annual Investment Meeting 2020, Dubai World Trade Centre, 24-26 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Dubai International Property Show, Dubai World Trade Centre, 24-26 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show, Sharjah Expo Centre, 25-29 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Chris De Burgh, Dubai Opera, 26 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Isai Rajangam 2020 Live Sharjah Cricket Stadium 27 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Russ live, Coca-Cola Arena, 27 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Abida Parveen Live, Dubai World Trade Centre, 27 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Horse Racing: Dubai World Cup 2020, Meydan Racecourse, 28 March 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Gulf Tents Expo 2020, Sharjah Expo Centre, 30 March to 01 April 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Interscaff Arabia, Sharjah Expo Centre, 30 March to 01 April 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
Cabsat Middle East, Dubai World Trade Centre, 31 March to 02 April 2020
So far still on.
No statement received.
