Nine Rising DJs in the Middle East

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The Middle East is emerging as a powerhouse in the global electronic music scene, with a new wave of DJs blending local sounds with international beats.

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These rising DJs from the Middle East are making waves with their unique styles, electrifying performances, and contributions to shaping regional nightlife and music culture. Here are 9 rising DJs you need to watch.

1. Sama’ Abdulhadi

Widely recognized as the queen of techno in the Arab world, Sama’ Abdulhadi is a Palestinian DJ and producer who’s breaking barriers on global stages. Her hypnotic techno sets have earned her a loyal following from Ramallah to Europe, while advocating for Palestinian representation in the global music scene.

2. Nouf Sufyani (Cosmicat)

Saudi Arabia’s Nouf Sufyani, known as Cosmicat, is one of the Kingdom’s first female DJs, making international headlines. She is known for her unique electro beats and has performed at massive events like the MDLBeast Music Festival.

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3. Tala Mortada

Lebanese DJ and creative Tala Mortada brings vibrant energy to every set. Known for her genre-blending style that mixes disco, house, and techno, Mortada is the resident DJ at The Grand Factory and Ahm Club.

4. Marva Alshamry (DJ Maww)

UAE's DJ Marva Alshamry, performing under the name DJ Maww, is gaining recognition for her vibrant mix of Afrobeats, R&B, and hip hop.

5. Nooriyah

UK-based Saudi DJ and radio host Nooriyah is known for her electrifying sets blending Middle Eastern and North African sounds with electronic music. Through her radio shows and live performances, Nooriyah is spotlighting SWANA (South West Asia and North Africa) music, bridging cultural gaps on the dance floor.

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6. Ali Youssef

Cairo-born Ali Youssef is a rising name in the Middle East’s electronic music scene. His sets include deep and minimal beats with elements of techno, redefining EDM. 

7. Jaafar Al Tayar

Saudi Arabia's DJ Jaafar Al Tayar is carving his niche with dynamic sets that blend deep house beats and minimal grooves. He won the MDLBEAST’s Storm Shaker DJ Competition in 2023 and has been touring regional and international venues since. 

8. K-Laff

K-Laff, a Jeddah-based DJ and producer, is rising fast with his experimental electronic soundscapes. His sets weave together house, disco, club and traditional Middle Eastern elements, creating immersive musical journeys that challenge and captivate audiences.

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9. Khalil

Egyptian DJ Ahmed Khalil is making his mark with sets which feature a mixture of tech-house, afro-house, and funk. The DJ has been dominating dancefloors in Barcelona, and his tracks have featured in sets by world-renowned selectors Mochakk, Nicholas Gazitua, Jessica Trbst, and Gabo Oliviera.

A New Era for Middle Eastern Electronic Music

These rising DJs in the Middle East are redefining the region’s soundscape, blending local influences with global trends, and breaking new ground for artists across genres. Whether performing at international festivals or intimate underground events, they are shaping the future of Middle Eastern electronic music.