Saaniya Abbas is making history as the first comedian from the UAE to debut a solo show at the Edinburgh Fringe, and her arrival is a breath of fresh, irreverent air.
In Hellarious, Abbas traces her journey from a sheltered Muslim upbringing in New Delhi to her current life in Dubai, carving out her own path. It’s a show about culture, identity, and the deliciously irreverent take on what it means to be destined for hell.
Charming the Crowd
Saaniya Abbas comes on stage looking adorable, complete with cat ears and a demeanour that suggests she’s far too sweet for the show’s title. But don’t be fooled. Hellarious is a show about her adult life, and in her own words, her enjoyment of certain adult pleasures. This contrast between her charming presence and her risqué material is part of the appeal.
A huge part of the show’s success is Abbas’s genuine fascination with her audience. Her performance feels like three-quarters polished routine and one-quarter heartfelt crowd work. She seems genuinely interested in the stories she uncovers, engaging with mixed-race couples and discussing faith with an Indian woman in the crowd. It’s not a crutch; it’s a conversation, and it makes the entire room feel connected.
Not an Ex-Muslim
The core of the show is about cultural identity. Abbas makes it clear that her lifestyle might make her a “bad Muslim,” but she refuses the label “ex-Muslim.” It’s a nuanced and relatable position; she compares it to a lapsed Christian who still celebrates Christmas and enjoys a chocolate egg at Easter. It’s about being true to your heritage without being defined by its strictest rules.
Her comedy touches on everything from growing up and taking risks to the frustrations of relationships, family, and her day job in advertising. The material is a solid example of what makes Fringe comedy so special: hearing a unique perspective from someone in a different part of the world. Be warned, though, you’ll need a thick skin. She lands a Donald Trump joke on an American in the front row within the first five seconds. Like we said, she’s adorable, but she’s also fearless.
Overall
Hellarious is a wonderfully solid Fringe debut. Saaniya Abbas is a warm, engaging, and funny new voice who offers a fantastic hour of comedy about cross-cultural experiences, personal freedom, and finding your own way. You get to meet someone new and hear their story, which is the very essence of the Fringe. A bold, unfiltered, and truly funny celebration of resilience and self-discovery. Recommended.
Review: Saaniya Abbas – Hellarious
Summary
In her landmark debut, the first from a UAE-based comic, Saaniya Abbas is a delight. Hellarious is a well-crafted set about being true to yourself, even if it makes you a “bad Muslim.” Her interactions with the audience feel as vital and interesting as her prepared material, creating a wonderfully complete and recommended comedy experience.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!
Amazing. This little pocket rocket is one to watch. I was completely captivated by her charm and wit, and did not disappoint. A must see at the Fringe 2025. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Saaniya really is charismatic, isn’t she? I think in part it is because she’s interested in other people.
Saniya is very funny and cute and she delivers her jokes in nice order, at the end my face hurt from smiling 😁 I hope one day she has her Netflix special 🫰
I think she’s purrfect for Netflix!