Popular British comedian Jimmy Carr is set to grace the stand-up stage in the UAE for the very first time. The comic and TV show host will headline two shows in Dubai next month as part of the Dubai Summer Surprises Festival. The <em>8 out of 10 Cats </em>star will perform at Dubai World Trade Centre on Thursday, August 13, and Friday, August 14. "I can’t wait to visit Dubai next month," said Carr in a statement. "This will be the first time I perform for my UAE followers and hope that everyone is ready for a laugh during these strange times." Carr, 47, is known for his biting wit and close-to-the-bone gags. He has performed sold-out shows across the UK after first taking to the comedy stage in 2000, and was nominated for the prestigious Perrier Award in 2002. He hosts British comedy panel show <em>8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown</em> and Channel 4's annual <em>Big Fat Quiz of the Year.</em> Tickets for Carr's Dubai shows will go on sale next week; prices have not yet been announced. According to organiser Done Events, the shows will follow health and safety guidelines, which will be detailed when tickets are released. Carr's performances form part of this year's <a href="https://www.thenational.ae/lifestyle/family/a-12-hour-sale-fireworks-and-classes-a-guide-to-dubai-summer-surprises-2020-1.1046153" target="_blank">DSS festival</a>, which kicked off on July 9 and runs until Saturday, August 29. The seven-week event comprises flash sales, discounts and masterclasses, as well as performances and firework shows. Carr's Dubai gigs are among the first to be held in the UAE by a major name since restrictions surrounding travel and gatherings eased. <a href="https://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/on-stage/this-is-the-perfect-time-for-stand-up-comedy-laughter-factory-s-gail-clough-on-bringing-jokes-back-to-dubai-1.1048608">The Laughter Factory</a> also began a new run of comedy shows last week featuring Ireland's Danny O'Brien and Peter Flanagan, and the UK's Nick Page.