Paul Smith at Etihad Arena

Paul Smith is bringing his stand-up show HAPPY to Abu Dhabi as part of Abu Dhabi Comedy Season. It is his first appearance at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, and the show has been billed as record-breaking. For audiences across the UAE, it is a first chance to see him perform live in the country. The evening is a seated stand-up night presented by Live Nation Middle East.

Paul's comedy rests on quick crowd work, sharp observations and stories drawn from real life. He has a knack for finding the funny side of situations most people recognise, from everyday chaos to small awkward moments. The audience plays a big part in HAPPY, so the room itself shapes the night and no two moments are quite the same. Expect unexpected exchanges, plenty of laughs and a pace that stays fast, spontaneous and hard to predict, as Paul turns whatever happens in front of him into material.

Etihad Arena sits on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi's entertainment district, which is also home to Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World and Yas Mall. The arena is a large indoor venue built for major concerts and live shows, and it hosts international touring acts throughout the year. Since the event takes place in Abu Dhabi rather than Dubai, Dubai residents should plan on a drive of roughly an hour to an hour and a half by car, depending on traffic and where they start.

The show suits anyone who enjoys interactive, conversational stand-up rather than a tightly scripted set. Because so much of it comes from the room, it works well for groups of friends or a night out with colleagues. As with most arena shows, it is worth arriving with some time to spare so you can find your seat and settle in before the laughs begin.