But a combination of easing restrictions and sensible promoters has enabled live comedy to return to the UAE after months of pandemic-induced inactivity.
It has imported three well-travelled mirth merchants to spread japery across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including fierce humour honcho Stephen Carlin (pictured above).
Asia and Europe are increasingly warming to Carlin, whose art lies in his ability to quarry wildly original material from the most conventional of starting points.
He grabs run-of-the-mill observations and applies relentless but warped logic, distributed via an exceptional use of language, opinionated broadsides and deadpan Scottish brogue.
Laconic, thoughtful and inventive, Carlin’s talents have also been called upon to help script some BBC shows.
Also putting his pen to good work - as well as his passport - is a comedian one critic said should be the “mayor of small village”.
And as a former street entertainer, this joyful wit has knack for keeping audiences engaged - although calling more upon a cunning blend of pathos, cheek and a microphone than the unicycle he once employed as a comedy acrobat.
Hollins also used to wash dishes in the House of Commons, but has since filled his CV as a comedy circuit regular with headline slots in the UK, Europe, Middle East and Asia under his belt.
He has also published his debut novel, The Karma Farmers, out on Unbound.
Finally, Sarah Millican, Russell Howard and Russell Kane can vouch for Sally Anne-Hayward (below), who has toured with all three of the established UK names.
It’s an unusual mix she has taken on air as an accomplished radio presenter with stage and TV acting credentials, including the Beeb’s Absolutely Fabulous.
Sally’s quick wit have ensured a regular compere slot at Glastonbury Festival, and as a sought-after corporate performer along with numerous Edinburgh Fringe shows.
Expect a "bubbly stream of comedy anecdotes" and "butter wouldn't melt in her mouth" style that has seen her administer stand up comedy on all five continents.
SO, where to see said funny folk?
The dates are as follows:
MOVENPICK JBR - Thursday, September 17 & Friday, 18 (AED50 minimum spend on food required)
ZABEEL House, by Jumeriah The Greens - Saturday 19 September
GRAND Millennium Barsha Heights - Thursday 24 September
HILTON Dubai Jumeirah – Friday 25 September (AED50 minimum spend on food)
TICKETS, priced at AED160 (including VAT), must be purchased in advance via www.thelaughterfactory.com
SHOWS start at 8.30pm. Call 0508786728 for more details.