Cultural Entertainment Manager – Events & Festivals

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Cultural Entertainment Manager to lead the planning, booking, coordination and delivery of cultural and entertainment programmes across a portfolio of events, festivals and destination experiences. The role combines heritage‑focused performances such as Al Ayala, Al Razfa and traditional folk arts with contemporary concerts and headline acts, ensuring authenticity while enhancing the visitor experience.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and curate cultural entertainment programmes that reflect local traditions, heritage and destination objectives.
• Source, recommend and manage traditional performance groups, cultural practitioners, musicians, storytellers and heritage entertainers.
• Coordinate cultural activations including Al Ayala, Al Razfa, Jalsat, traditional music ensembles, poetry performances and other heritage experiences.
• Manage booking, contracting and coordination of local performers and oversee concert programming and live music performances.
• Coordinate artist requirements, hospitality, transportation, accommodation and operational needs as the primary liaison between artists, talent agencies, promoters and event stakeholders.
• Develop and manage show running orders, stage schedules, cue sheets and performance timelines; coordinate rehearsals, sound checks and stage movements.
• Review and manage technical riders, stage plots, input lists and backline equipment specifications.
• Oversee backstage and talent operations, including artist accreditation, dressing rooms, green rooms, hospitality lounges and transportation schedules.

Required profile

• Proven experience in cultural or entertainment programming and event management.
• Strong knowledge of local traditions, heritage practices and cultural protocols.
• Ability to work closely with artists, talent agencies and multiple event stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational, logistical and multitasking abilities.
• Attention to detail to ensure authentic and high‑quality delivery of performances.

Required skills