Barrio Fiesta Dubai: Cianne Dominguez wows as Sinulog queen

Actress and It's Showtime host Cianne Dominguez performs at the Barrio Fiesta Dubai at Zabeel Park on February 8, 2026. TFC Middle East

The vibrant colours and rhythms of Sinulog filled Zabeel Park as Barrio Fiesta Dubai officially opened on Sunday (February 8) with a festive celebration led by It’s Showtime’s Cianne Dominguez. Now in its fifth year, Barrio Fiesta Dubai has grown into one of the most anticipated Filipino community events in the UAE. This year’s edition embraced the spirit of Sinulog, the Philippines’ largest religious and cultural festival that originates from Cebu, transforming the park into a lively showcase of Filipino heritage. Dominguez opened the event as the Sinulog queen, performing an elaborate dance on the main stage that captured the attention of the crowd. Wearing a colourful costume inspired by traditional Sinulog attire, she brought energy and pride to the performance. For Dominguez, the event carried special meaning as it marked her first visit to Dubai. Barrio Fiesta Dubai runs until 6pm and features a full-day programme of games, entertainment, bazaar, food and star performances from Kai Montinola, Kyle Echarri and It’s Showtime hosts Vhong Navarro and Jhong Hilario, while Viva artists Rabin Angeles and Angela Muji will also make appearances. Beyond the stage, visitors explored bazaars showcasing Filipino-owned businesses and beloved Filipino-focused enterprises, including Philippine Airlines, Lucky Charms Closet and Travelwings. Food lovers lined up at stalls offering familiar flavour, with Hong Gourmet Hypermarket, Chinese Star Restaurant, Naderang, Agemono Express, Jally's Kitchen, Affordacup, Dencio's among the participating vendors. The opening program was attended by Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, Philippine Consul General Ambrosio Brian Enciso, Dubai Police officials and ABS-CBN Middle East and TFC Middle East executives. Zabeel Park provided a spacious and family-friendly setting for the celebration. Many attendees arrived early to stroll through the grounds, take photos in festive Sinulog-themed decorations and enjoy traditional Filipino dishes before heading to the main stage for the performances. ICA/Expat Media