The stage is set for a spectacular start to the DP World ILT20 Season 4, and this year’s opening night is getting an extra dose of star power. Pakistani superstar singer Ali Zafar has been confirmed as the headline performer for the opening ceremony, promising a high-energy show to kick off one of the Gulf region’s biggest cricketing events.
The six-team, 34-match league begins on Tuesday, 2 December, which also marks the UAE National Day (Eid-Al-Etihad) — making the celebration even more special. The iconic Dubai International Stadium will play host to the festivities, with the opening ceremony scheduled to begin at 6:00pm local time.
A Blockbuster Start to ILT20 Season 4
Organisers are gearing up for a grand evening as fans pour in to witness a mix of world-class entertainment and top-tier cricket. The stadium gates will open from 4:00pm, giving spectators plenty of time to settle in before the celebrations ignite.
Following the opening ceremony, the season’s first match will officially launch the tournament at 6:45pm — a high-profile clash between defending champions Dubai Capitals and Desert Vipers, a repeat of last year’s dramatic final. Dubai snatched victory in the last over of that match, and both sides return hoping to make an early statement.
Tickets: Starting from Just AED 20
ILT20 continues its tradition of keeping the event accessible for fans across the region.
- Stand Tickets: Starting at AED 20
- Hospitality Packages: From AED 325
- Sixes Lounge Experience: AED 395 (includes unlimited food & beverages)
Tickets are available on:
- Virgin Megastore
- tickets.ilt20.ae
Given the popularity of the opening night and Ali Zafar’s performance, limited tickets remain across categories.
Ali Zafar: “An Honour to Perform on UAE National Day”
Ali Zafar, who has performed in Dubai countless times to packed venues, expressed excitement at returning to one of his favourite stages.
“I’m really excited to return to Dubai for my performance at the DP World International League T20’s opening ceremony. Dubai has always welcomed me wholeheartedly… It is a massive honour for me to perform on UAE National Day and be part of the festivities.”
He also revealed that he will debut songs from his upcoming album Roshni as a special gift to fans.
A Ceremony Fit for UAE National Day
In addition to Zafar’s headline act, the night will feature a grand fireworks display themed around UAE’s National Day. ILT20 CEO David White emphasized the significance of this year’s celebration:
“It is indeed an honour for the league and all stakeholders to join the UAE in the National Day celebrations. The fans will also enjoy riveting cricket immediately after the ceremony with a blockbuster rematch to start the season.”
With the UAE buzzing for the dual celebration — National Day and the launch of ILT20 Season 4 — expectations are sky-high.
A Month of Cricketing Entertainment Ahead
Season 4 promises another action-packed edition, with top international stars ready to light up stadiums across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The tournament will run from 2 December to 4 January, featuring gripping matches, big names, and one of the strongest line-ups the league has seen.
Ali Zafar’s electrifying performance on opening night will set the tone for a month-long cricketing extravaganza.
