Etihad Arena

Dominating the Yas Island skyline, the Etihad Arena stands as a colossal monument to entertainment and sporting spectacle in the heart of Abu Dhabi. More than just a venue, it is a meticulously engineered marvel designed to host the world's most electrifying live events, from blockbuster concerts and championship boxing matches to thrilling basketball tournaments and captivating family shows. Its sheer scale and cutting-edge design promise an unparalleled experience, cementing its status as a premier destination for unforgettable moments on a global stage.

The Etihad Arena, formerly known as Yas Island Arena, was conceived as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's ambition to become a global hub for tourism, culture, and entertainment. Construction began in the late 2010s, with the vision to create a world-class, multi-purpose venue capable of accommodating a diverse range of events. Its architectural design is a testament to modern engineering prowess, featuring a distinctive, futuristic aesthetic that complements the surrounding Yas Island landscape. The arena's shell is engineered for optimal acoustics and visual appeal, ensuring that whether it's hosting a symphony orchestra or a high-octane sporting event, the experience is immersive and impactful. A significant, often-overlooked aspect of its origin lies in the sophisticated modular design, allowing the arena's configuration to be adapted for vastly different event types. This flexibility, a key design principle, was crucial to its intended multi-purpose function, moving beyond the typical static design of many large venues.

Since its grand opening in January 2021, the Etihad Arena has rapidly carved out its identity. Its inauguration was marked by a series of high-profile events that immediately placed it on the international entertainment map. Beyond its initial sporting events and concerts, the arena has played a pivotal role in showcasing Emirati culture and talent on a grand stage, often featuring local artists and productions alongside international headliners. This dual focus—hosting global phenomena while championing local heritage—is central to its cultural impact. The arena has also become a vital component of Abu Dhabi's strategy to attract major international sporting championships, reinforcing the emirate's position as a significant player in global sports tourism. Its presence has undoubtedly elevated Abu Dhabi's profile, offering a world-class facility that can compete with any major venue internationally.

The Etihad Arena's impressive capacity of up to 18,000 spectators for concerts and 15,000 for sporting events has allowed it to attract a constellation of global superstars. The venue's unique selling proposition lies in its unparalleled adaptability and its ability to create an intimate yet grand atmosphere, regardless of the event's scale. This is achieved through its state-of-the-art retractable seating and configurable stage setups, ensuring optimal sightlines and sound for every single attendee.

Here are some of the iconic performances and legendary nights that have graced the Etihad Arena:

• Katy Perry (2022): The pop icon delivered a dazzling performance, showcasing the arena's ability to handle spectacular stage productions and vibrant crowd energy.
• Twenty One Pilots (2022): This alternative rock duo brought their dynamic stage presence, highlighting the arena's suitability for high-energy rock concerts and the impressive sound system.
• Westlife (2023): The Irish boy band captivated thousands with their beloved hits, demonstrating the arena's appeal for nostalgic and fan-driven musical events.
• Manchester City vs. Al-Ain (2023 - AFC Champions League): While not a concert, this high-stakes football match exemplified the arena's capacity for major sporting events and the electric atmosphere it can generate for competitive action.
• UFC 267 (2021): The arena hosted a landmark UFC event, showcasing its capabilities as a premier venue for professional mixed martial arts, drawing international attention to Abu Dhabi.

These events, among many others, underscore the Etihad Arena's position as a versatile and vital hub for world-class entertainment and sporting excellence in the Middle East.

The Etihad Arena is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all its guests, with comprehensive accessibility features designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

• Wheelchair Access: The arena features dedicated wheelchair spaces throughout the seating bowl, offering excellent sightlines. Accessible restrooms are also available on all levels.
• Accessible Seating: Patrons requiring accessible seating should book in advance through the official ticketing channels, specifying their needs. These seats are designed to be easily reachable and offer adjacent companion seating.
• Assistance Services: Trained staff are available to assist guests with disabilities upon arrival and throughout their visit. This can include guidance to their seats, use of facilities, and assistance with entry and exit.
• Sensory Considerations: Information regarding sensory rooms or specific accommodations for guests with sensory sensitivities can be obtained by contacting the venue's guest services team directly.
• Parking: Designated accessible parking bays are available in the closest car parks to the arena entrances.
• Ramps and Lifts: Ramps and elevators provide access to all public areas of the arena, ensuring seamless movement between different levels.

Guests with specific accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact the Etihad Arena's guest services team in advance of their visit to make necessary arrangements and ensure a comfortable experience.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Etihad Arena, please familiarise yourself with the following policies:

• Door Times: Doors typically open 60-90 minutes before the scheduled start time of an event. This can vary depending on the event, so it is advisable to check the specific event details on the Etihad Arena website or your ticket confirmation.
• Age Restrictions: Age restrictions can vary significantly by event. Concerts may have age restrictions for entry (e.g., 12+, 16+, or 18+), while family shows are generally open to all ages, though children may require a ticket regardless of age. Always check the specific event's terms and conditions.
• Bag Policy: Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are generally not permitted inside the arena. A strict bag policy is enforced, with a size limit for small bags (e.g., A4 size). All bags will be subject to search.
• Security: Enhanced security measures are in place, including bag checks and metal detector screening. Please cooperate with security personnel. Prohibited items include weapons, glass bottles, food and drink (unless specified for a particular event), professional cameras, and laser pointers.
• Photography: The use of professional cameras, video recorders, and selfie sticks is typically prohibited. Mobile phone photography may be permitted, but flash photography is usually discouraged. Always check the specific event's photography policy.