Playboi Carti cancels Wireless Abu Dhabi — the Atlanta rapper who was booked to headline the November 23rd show at Etihad Park on Yas Island — pulled out at the last minute on the day of the event, plunging the festival into chaos and leaving thousands of ticket holders blindsided.
Playboi Carti Cancels Wireless Abu Dhabi Hours Before Showtime
Event promoters Live Nation broke the news on Instagram, confirming that Carti had made an "unfortunate and last-minute decision" not to perform. In their statement the company expressed shared frustration, writing that they had "put our best effort to ensure that everyone had the time of their lives." The announcement sent shockwaves through the Abu Dhabi entertainment scene, given that the Wireless Festival had already undergone one headline change earlier in the year.
The Show Will Go On: Replacement Lineup Announced
Wireless Abu Dhabi quickly assured fans that the festival would continue with a reshuffled bill. UK rapper 21 Savage stepped up to lead the event, joined by fast-rising Atlanta artist Yeat, whose track Money So Big went viral earlier in 2024. American rap acts A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Saweetie rounded out the replacement lineup, giving the Etihad Park crowd a strong night of live music despite the headline disappointment.
30% Refund for Ticket Holders
For fans who felt the loss of the headline act too keenly, Live Nation offered a 30% refund on all tickets purchased. The refunds were set to be processed automatically, with funds expected to arrive within 5 to 10 working days.
A History of Last-Minute Changes at Wireless Abu Dhabi
Carti's withdrawal marked the second consecutive year that the Wireless Festival in Abu Dhabi had lost its headline act. Earlier in 2024, SZA cancelled her scheduled appearance — and it was that cancellation that led to Playboi Carti being booked as her replacement. His own last-minute exit leaves Live Nation facing renewed questions about the reliability of the festival's booking pipeline for the UAE market.
Despite the turbulence, Live Nation reaffirmed its commitment to delivering world-class entertainment in the UAE, and the Wireless Abu Dhabi 2024 crowd ultimately got a full night of live performances at Etihad Park.
