Lebanese-Canadian singer Maya Waked to thrill Dubai
- Last updated: October 1, 2025 | 13:21
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
Maya Waked, the Lebanese-Canadian singer, songwriter, and genre-defying artist, is set to bring her new show to Zabeel Theatre in Dubai this November. Known for her re-imaginative renditions of classic songs and emotionally profound original compositions, Maya aims to captivate her audience with a performance that challenges musical boundaries. Her eclectic setlist will feature a fusion of Lebanese songs alongside French and English lyrics, creating a distinctive genre that is entirely her own.
Maya Waked has earned a reputation for combining her rich Lebanese roots and modern sound with Bossa Nova and jazz improvisations.
She first rose to prominence as a backing vocalist for the legendary Lebanese singer Fairouz before collaborating with the late Ziad Rahbani, cementing her place in the contemporary music scene. Over the years, she has taken an unconventional approach to music, continuously challenging the traditional boundaries of genre and sound.
Maya’s performances are emotional journeys that connect listeners to her stories of identity, love, and longing. Her performances in iconic venues, such as Place des Arts in Montreal and Alexander Platz Rome, resonated with audiences from all backgrounds. Maya’s music is deeply intertwined with her multicultural experiences, and her upcoming concert promises to bring together Lebanese and western influences under one umbrella.
Having always felt a deep connection to her roots, Maya believes that music is a powerful tool to communicate complex emotions and stories. "My music speaks to those who find themselves between worlds, much like I have," she explains. "Whether I am celebrating my Lebanese identity or expressing my journey as an immigrant, I want my music to be a home for those who feel displaced, whether physically or emotionally."
Throughout her career, Maya has also focused on the theme of identity, especially for expatriates. "As someone who grew up outside Lebanon, I've always felt the need to provide a voice for those living away from home," she shares. "My songs explore themes of belonging, love, memories, and the complexities of home, trying to capture the experience of living in a multicultural environment."
Maya's unique approach to blending various musical traditions is not just about experimentation but is also deeply personal. "The fun part is when I allow myself to introduce an element of surprise into the music — it surprises both me and the audience," she says.
Her creative process often begins with taking global folk melodies and crafting new lyrics in Lebanese, which resonates with Arabic and non-Arabic speakers. Her modern approach appeals to a younger generation rediscovering classics, while the rebirth of these songs feed the collective memory of those who remember them well.
Maya Waked’s performance at Zabeel Theatre will be a unique celebration of multiculturalism and musical experimentation. The audience can expect timeless classics and powerful original compositions that showcase her ability to connect emotionally through music. The concert will also feature some of her most popular tracks, such as her own Bi Beirut, as well as Shou Ada Ma Bada by Ziad Rahbani.