Bukele hails Shakira sellout as singer adds two concerts in El Salvador

Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Shakira confirmed she will add two additional concerts in El Salvador, bringing the total number of performances scheduled for February to five. Tickets for the initial three dates sold out in less than 24 hours.

The announcement followed a public exchange on social media platform X with President Nayib Bukele, who highlighted the strong ticket sales and said producers were working to extend the residency.

Hours later, the singer responded by thanking Central American fans and officially confirming the expanded schedule.

The first three concerts are scheduled for Feb. 12, 14 and 15 at the Jorge "Mágico" González National Stadium in San Salvador. The artist's production company confirmed the additional dates in an Instagram post.

"What fans were waiting for. Two new dates added. The Central American residency of the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour: Feb. 7 and 8," the post said.

Bukele said the rapid sellout reflects the country's positioning as a venue for major regional events. "Shakira sold out all tickets for her three dates in less than 24 hours," the president wrote, also referring to the logistical efforts required to extend the residency.

The expansion cements El Salvador as the sole host of the so-called Central American residency of the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour, a format the singer has previously used in Mexico, where she performed 19 concerts in Mexico City and other cities amid strong demand.

The tour accompanies the release of Shakira's 12th studio album and ranks among the most successful in the global music industry. According to Billboard, the tour has generated more than $327 million in revenue and sold over 2.5 million tickets worldwide, with more than 80 shows confirmed through 2026.

Salvadoran authorities estimate the concerts will generate an economic impact of about $25 million, boosting sectors such as hotels, transportation, retail and services.

The Ministry of Tourism expects hotel occupancy to approach 100% on concert nights, driven by visitors from Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

Fans have expressed excitement across social media, sharing their plans to attend the concerts and highlighting the significance of Shakira performing in the region. Many are also praising the addition of the new dates, as tickets for the initial shows sold out almost instantly.

Local businesses are already preparing for the influx of visitors, with restaurants, cafes and transportation services announcing special offers and extended hours to accommodate concert-goers. Event organizers are also coordinating with local authorities to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety measures for the high-attendance events.

Shakira's management team indicated that the artist is personally involved in the planning and production of the concerts, ensuring a high-quality experience for fans. Stage design, lighting, and sound systems are being tailored to the stadium environment, promising an unforgettable live performance.

The singer's presence in El Salvador is expected to leave a cultural impact beyond the concerts, with local media covering her visit extensively and fans celebrating through various community events. Schools and music programs have expressed interest in using her performances as inspiration for young musicians in the region.

Tickets for the newly added dates are now available online and at official outlets, with organizers encouraging fans to act quickly due to anticipated high demand. Shakira's team has emphasized that these five concerts mark a special chapter in her world tour, highlighting the significance of Central America in her career trajectory.

International visitors attending the concerts are also likely to explore the country's cultural and historical attractions, which may further enhance El Salvador's reputation as a destination for tourism and major entertainment events. Travel agencies are promoting packages that combine concert tickets with tours of the region’s key landmarks.

Overall, the addition of the two extra concerts not only underscores Shakira's popularity but also strengthens El Salvador’s position as a hub for major international events. The combination of high ticket demand, economic benefits, and cultural excitement points to a landmark moment for both the artist and the country.