The 2026 FIFA World Cup final promises an unforgettable halftime show featuring Shakira, BTS, and more. Here's how to watch from the UAE.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Jul 19, 2026 ALN: And you thought the FIFA World Cup final is only about football? The event is set to be an extravagant celebration of sport and culture, showcasing a star-studded lineup that promises to captivate audiences around the globe. Before the 2026 champions lift the trophy, New York New Jersey Stadium will transform into a giant entertainment stage, featuring music stars, celebrity appearances, cultural performances, and the tournament’s first-ever halftime show.
The final is scheduled to kick off at 11 PM, but fans will not have to wait until then for the festivities to begin. The closing ceremony is set for around 9:30 PM, approximately 90 minutes before kickoff. This ceremony will celebrate the journey of 48 teams across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the 16 host cities involved in this monumental tournament.
Closing Ceremony: Around 9:30 PM UAE time
Kick-off: 11 PM UAE time
Halftime Show: Approximately 11:45 PM to midnight UAE time, with the 20-minute performance potentially running beyond midnight depending on first-half stoppage time.
Co-headliners: Shakira, Madonna, BTS, and Justin Bieber
Creative Curator: Chris Martin of Coldplay
Special Guests: Beloved characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets
The Cause: The concert benefits the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, a charitable drive aimed at raising $100 million to improve youth education and soccer access globally.
Fans have multiple options to catch the action, starting with the most traditional route: a beIN SPORTS satellite subscription, which provides dedicated World Cup channels straight to your television for a classic, big-screen viewing experience. For those who prefer watching on the go, beIN CONNECT streams live matches across mobile, laptop, and smart TV devices, allowing fans to stay in the game wherever they are. Additionally, for a more flexible, standalone option, TOD by beIN has quickly become a fan favorite, offering full coverage without the need for a satellite package.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is assembling a lineup so star-studded that the footballers may want to arrive early just to get a good view. The final weekend is shaping up to be a fever dream of entertainment, featuring Grammy-nominated rappers, EGOT winners, legendary performers, and even some familiar faces from Sesame Street.
Post Malone — Closing Ceremony Headliner
Leading the pre-match celebrations is Grammy-nominated rapper and singer Post Malone, who will headline the closing ceremony before the final gets underway. Known for his genre-blending music and engaging performances, Malone is expected to set the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable night.
EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson will lend her powerhouse vocals to the national anthem before kick-off. Known for her incredible vocal range and emotional performances, Hudson’s rendition is anticipated to resonate deeply with fans and players alike.
Pop superstar Justin Bieber is set to join FIFA’s first-ever World Cup final halftime show, bringing his global pop-star power to football’s biggest stage. His involvement highlights the intersection of sports and entertainment, appealing to a diverse audience and enhancing the global appeal of the event.
The Queen of Pop, Madonna, is also slated to perform at the World Cup final. Known for her iconic performances and dramatic entrances, Madonna’s participation promises to add a layer of spectacle and excitement to the halftime show.
Shakira is making a return to the FIFA World Cup stage, following her unforgettable performance of the anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” during the 2010 tournament. Her presence is expected to evoke nostalgia while introducing her latest hits to a new generation of fans.
Nigerian superstar Burna Boy will also take the stage after appearing at the tournament’s opening ceremony alongside the official FIFA World Cup song, “Dai Dai.” His participation emphasizes the growing influence of African artists on the global music scene.
The globally popular K-pop group BTS will bring its star power to the halftime lineup, giving football’s biggest stage a significant K-pop upgrade. Their involvement is likely to draw millions of ARMY fans to tune in, further enhancing the event's viewership.
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin will curate the historic halftime show, marking a significant milestone as the first-ever World Cup final halftime performance. Martin’s artistic vision is expected to elevate the show, turning it into a multi-sensory experience that combines music, visuals, and emotion.
Acclaimed Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel will add a classical twist to the star-packed lineup, showcasing that the halftime show is not confined to a single musical genre. His participation reflects FIFA's commitment to inclusivity and diversity in music.
The PS 22 choir from Staten Island, New York, will join Coldplay for a special performance, adding a local touch to the global event. Their youthful energy and enthusiasm are expected to resonate with audiences, bridging the gap between local and international talent.
Fans can also expect appearances from beloved Sesame Street characters during the celebrations. This inclusion highlights the family-friendly aspect of the World Cup, making it an event for viewers of all ages.
The final weekend will also feature appearances from several entertainment personalities, including:
Tom Cruise
IShowSpeed
Robbie Williams
Nicole Scherzinger
Laura Pausini
While FIFA has not confirmed the exact roles each celebrity will play, their presence underscores the event's significance as a cultural touchstone, blending sports with entertainment on a global scale.
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