Etihad Arena, situated on the lively waterfront of Yas Bay in Abu Dhabi, is one of the largest indoor entertainment venues in the Middle East with a capacity to house 18,000 guests. From concerts to comedy shows, the venue is all set to host some big names this season.
Here’s what to expect at Etihad Arena this season.
1. NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024
NBA is back in Abu Dhabi! Get ready for a week-long basketball extravaganza featuring The NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 Presented by ADQ. After a history-making NBA debut in the Arabian Gulf in 2022 and a star-studded lineup of fan events in 2023, the action returns to the UAE capital. 2024 promises even more on-court action, city-wide celebrations, and fan excitement. Witness 17-time NBA champion Boston Celtics and the defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets on court. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of the excitement.
Date and timings: Friday, October 4, 2024 (Boston Celtics vs Denver Nuggets) - Doors Open 6.30pm; Sunday, October 6, 2024 (Denver Nuggets vs Boston Celtics) - Doors Open 4.30pm
2. NBA Fan Appreciation Day
The second 'NBA Fan Appreciation Day in Abu Dhabi' will take place on October 5 at Etihad Arena. The unique fan experience will feature appearances by Celtics and Nuggets players and NBA legends, musical performances, a skills challenge and three-point contest featuring Celtics and Nuggets players, performances by Celtics mascot Lucky the Leprechaun and Nuggets mascot Rocky the Mountain Lion, a slam dunk contest featuring professional dunkers, prize giveaways, and more.
Date and timings: Saturday, October 5 at Etihad Arena - Doors open 3.30pm.
3. Abdul Majeed Abdullah show
Live Nation, in association with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, and Abu Dhabi Media, are putting together a special musical celebration. One of Saudi Arabia’s most famous singers, composers, and actors, Abdul Majeed Abdullah, will be returning to the capital once again for an exclusive show at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi this coming October 11th. Known for his captivating performances and catchy music, Abdul Majeed Abdullah is one of the most well-known performers of popular music in the Middle East.
Date and timings: Friday, October 11, 2024 - Doors open 8pm
4. Disney on Ice - Let's Celebrate
Celebrate with Mickey and friends while reliving the adventures of favorite Disney stories at Disney On Ice presents Let’s Celebrate! See Mirabel and the stars of Encanto for the first time live on ice! Set sail with Moana, bring back summer with Anna and Elsa, and sing and dance with the Disney Princesses and the Toy Story gang. The magic of Disney is closer than ever when Disney On Ice comes to you!
Date and timings: Wednesday, October 16, 2024 - Doors open 6.30pm, Thursday, October 17, 2024 - Doors open 6.30pm; Friday, October 18, 2024 - Doors open 2.30pm; Friday October 18, 2024 - Doors open 6.30pm; Saturday, October 19, 2024 - Doors open 10.30am; Saturday, October 19, 2024 - Doors open 2.30pm; Saturday, October 19, 2024 - Doors open 6.30pm; Sunday, October 20, 2024 - Doors open 10.30am; Sunday, October 20, 2024 - Doors open 2.30pm
5. Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour
Following their record-breaking sell-out performance at the Etihad Arena in May 2023, the Backstreet Boys are back by popular demand and fans can expect an unforgettable night filled with their greatest hits, including the singalong songs 'Everybody' and 'I Want It That Way'. Promising concertgoers a full, dynamic show, despite Kevin Richardson’s absence due to scheduling conflicts, the remaining members, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, and Brian Littrell, will deliver the complete Backstreet Boys experience, showcasing their iconic harmonies and captivating performances.
Date and timings: Wednesday, October 23, 2024 - Doors open 7pm
6. Take that - This Life On Tour 2024 Middle East
Iconic British band, Take That, is coming to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Park for one night only on Friday, October 25, 2024.
Formed in 1990, the band has reached the top spot on the Official UK Albums Chart a total of nine times and topped the Official UK Singles Chart twelve times. With singles such as Pray, Sure, Back For Good, Never Forget, Patience, and Greatest Day reading like the soundtrack to our lives, Take That has become one of the most loved and enduring bands of their generation. They have solidified their status as global music icons and we love them.
Alongside the band's incredible chart success and sales of over 45 million records worldwide, Take That is renowned for its incredible live shows.
‘Take That’ currently holds the record for the most performances at London’s O2, with 34 headline shows. The band’s 2011’s Progress tour broke box office records by selling over 1.1 million tickets in less than 24 hours and in 2019, the band celebrated their 30th anniversary with the 38 date sell-out Odyssey tour which saw them play to 29 arenas and nine stadiums and selling over 650,000 tickets.
Date and timings: Friday, October 25, 2024 - Doors open 6pm
7. UFC 308
Held in partnership with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), UFC 308: Topuria versus Holloway marks the return of UFC to the capital for the second time this year on October 26 at Etihad Arena. UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria takes on Max Holloway, ranked number two. The co-main event features a clash of top middleweights, Robert Whittaker and Khamzat Chimaev in a five-round matchup. For UFC 308: Topuria versus Holloway, fan favourite Abu Dhabi Showdown Week is set to return for a seven-day series of city-wide events with dedicated fan events, live shows, and much more.
Date and timings: Saturday, October 26, 2024 - Doors open 5.30pm
8. Matt Rife: ProbleMATTic World Tour
American comedian Matt Rife will be performing for the first time in the Middle East at Etihad Arena.
Date and timings: Sunday, October 27, 2024 - Doors open 6pm
9. AR Rahman Live In Concert
Indian musical composer and record producer AR Rahman will be performing Live in Concert on November 2. Rahman's iconic melodies are known worldwide for their emotional depth and cultural richness.
Date and timings: Saturday, November 2, 2024 - Doors open 6.30pm
10. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live - Glow Party
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party is coming to the UAE for the very first time ever! Fans of all ages will experience the thrill of watching their favourite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks in the Dark! The show in Abu Dhabi will have four epic performances from November 8 to 10.
The Glow Party will bring fans’ favourite Hot Wheels Monster Trucks to life including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, Demo Derby, Bone Shaker, Bigfoot, and Gunkster, and will introduce the brand new HW 5-Alarm, the firetruck hero of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks! Event performances will also feature a dazzling dance party, spectacular light shows and Hot Wheels toy giveaways. Plus, you will see the fire and frost-breathing, transforming dragon Arcticgon, and the high-flyers of Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live, Freestyle Motocross, in action.
Date and timings: Friday, November 8, 2024 - Doors open 6.30pm, Saturday, November 9, 2024 - Doors open 11am; Saturday, November 9, 2024 - Doors open 6.30pm; Sunday, November 10, 2024 - Doors open 11am.
11. Life of Pi
Life of Pi is an epic tale of adventure, perseverance, and hope. The Tony and Olivier-award play is making its way to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena from November 15 to 17.
After a shipwreck in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, a sixteen-year-old boy named Pi survives on a lifeboat with four companions— a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal tiger. Told with jaw-dropping visuals, world class puppetry and exquisite stagecraft, Life of Pi creates a breathtaking journey that will leave you filled with awe and joy.
Date and timings: Friday, November 15, 2024 - Doors open 7pm; Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Doors open 1pm; Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Doors open 7pm; Sunday, November 17, 2024 - Doors open 12 noon, Sunday November 17, 2024 - Doors open 5.30pm.
12. Lang Lang Plays Disney
Internationally renowned pianist, Lang Lang, plays the iconic movie soundtracks from the magical world of Walt Disney in a newly reimagined show. Joined by a full orchestra and special guests, Lang Lang will showcase a musical and visual experience of Disney’s most popular songs. Lang Lang has been delighting audiences around the world with his take on the music of Disney movie soundtracks from the contemporary 'Let It Go' from ‘Frozen’ and 'You’ll Be in My Heart' from ‘Tarzan’ to the timeless favourites, 'Someday My Prince Will Come' from ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’, 'The Bare Necessities' from ‘The Jungle Book’ and 'Chim Chim Cheree' from ‘Mary Poppins’.
Date and timings: Friday, November 22, 2024 - Doors open 7pm
13. World Supercross Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2024
The FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) World Supercross Championship (WSX) is returning to Abu Dhabi this year with a full-throttle week of racing on Yas Island. In 2023, the WSX Abu Dhabi Grand Prix left audiences stunned as they witnessed the best talent on two wheels race into the night, dealing thrills and spills to deliver three different winners in three races – a first for the championship.
In 2024, Etihad Arena will host more of the same, but as the season finale of the 2024 FIM World Supercross Championship, there’s even more on the line. Two World Champions will be crowned in Abu Dhabi.
Every World Supercross Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticketholder will receive access on Thursday, 5 December to: Super Thursday of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit, and Yasalam After-Race Concert General Admission at Etihad Park.
Date and timings: Wednesday, December 4, 2024 - Doors Open: 5pm
14. Ben Elton - Authentic Stupidity
Following the huge success of Ben Elton’s critically acclaimed sold-out UK tour in 2019, which marked his return to stand-up after a 15-year hiatus, the undisputed godfather of modern stand-up is going back on the road with a brand new live show—Authentic Stupidity.
Date and timings: Saturday, December 7, 2024 - Doors Open: 5pm, event starts 6.30pm
15. Elf The Musical
Get ready for a hilarious holiday adventure with Elf The Musical! This festive production brings the beloved Christmas classic to life in a grand arena setting. Starring Jordan Conway as Buddy the Elf, this musical follows Buddy’s journey from the North Pole to New York City as he discovers his true identity and spreads holiday cheer.
Expect stunning sets, festive costumes, and larger-than-life holiday magic that will transport you to a winter wonderland. Whether you’re a fan of the original film or discovering this story for the first time, Elf The Musical Arena Spectacular is a must-see event.
Date and timings: Saturday, December 14, 2024 - Doors open 10.30am; Saturday, December 14, 2024 - Doors open 3pm; Sunday, December 15, 2024 - Doors open 10.30am; Sunday, December 15, 2024 - Doors open 3pm.
16. World Tennis League Presents The Greatest Show on Court
The World Tennis League is back with Season 3. Get ready to witness 16 of the world's top Tennis players, across four teams, live in action from December 19 to 22. It's the ultimate showdown of skill, determination, and raw talent. Head to Etihad Arena for live post-match entertainment concerts featuring world-class artists from various genres.
Date and timings: Thursday, December 19 to Sunday, December 22.
17. Bryan Adams Live
Bryan Adams, a Grammy award winning rock icon, who has sold over 100 million records is set to perform at Season 3 of the World Tennis League.
Date and timings: Thursday, December 19, 2024 - Doors open 9.15pm
18. Anastacia live!
Get ready to experience an electrifying night as global superstar Anastacia takes the stage for a live concert. Sing along to her biggest hits, including classics like ‘I'm Outta Love’, ‘Left Outside Alone’, ‘Sick and Tired’, and many more. With a career spanning over two decades, her set list is packed with fan favorites that have topped charts worldwide.
Date and timings: Friday, December 20, 2024 - Doors open 9.15pm
19. Akon
Five-time Grammy nominated artist and international R&B sensation, Akon, will heat up the dance floor with classics such as 'Right Now (Na Na Na), 'Lonely' and 'Don't Matter'.
Date and timings: Saturday, December 21, 2024
20. Frozen in concert
Walt Disney Animation Studios' beloved film, Frozen, comes to life with a live performance of Christophe Beck's Grammy-nominated score. The event showcases the enchanting music that made the children’s animation movie a global phenomenon, with the score performed live as the film plays on the big screen.
Frozen features a multi-Platinum soundtrack with eight unforgettable songs by Academy Award, Emmy, and Grammy-winning songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. The iconic ‘Let It Go’, performed by Idina Menzel, is among the highlights, earning both an Oscar and Grammy for its impact.
Date and timings: Friday, January 17, 2025 - Doors open 3pm
21. Jurassic Park in concert
Step back into the world of Jurassic Park as you've never seen or heard-it before. Witness the classic film on the big screen, accompanied by a live performance of John Williams' iconic score by the 21st Century Orchestra.
Audiences can experience the film with a full symphony orchestra performing the unforgettable music live, synced perfectly to the movie projected in stunning HD.
Date and timings: Friday, January 17, 2025 - Doors open 8pm
22. The Lion King in concert
Walt Disney Animation Studio's iconic feature, The Lion King, comes to life with Hans Zimmer's Oscar-winning score performed live alongside the film. This event will blend the magic of cinema with the power of a live orchestra.
The original 1994 animated masterpiece boasts a timeless soundtrack crafted by an illustrious team of Oscar and Grammy winners, including the legendary Elton John, lyricist Tim Rice, and composer Hans Zimmer. Enhancing the experience are the evocative African vocal and choir arrangements by Grammy-winning South African producer and composer Lebo M (Rhythm of the Pride Lands), making this a truly immersive celebration of one of Disney's most beloved films.
Don't miss the chance to relive the epic journey of Simba, Mufasa, and the Pride Lands in this unique concert experience that combines breathtaking visuals with an awe-inspiring live performance.
Date and timings: Saturday, January 18, 2025 - Doors open 1pm
23. Top Gun: Maverick in concert
Feel the adrenaline rush of Top Gun: Maverick as never before. Witness the high-flying action on the big screen while the 21st Century Orchestra performs the film's electrifying score live.
Dive into the danger zone with this sequel that continues the story of naval aviator Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell. Featuring heart-pounding aerial sequences and a gripping soundtrack by composers Lone Balfe, Harold Faltermeyer, Lady Gaga, and Hans Zimmer, Top Gun: Maverick captures the thrill of the flight like no other film.
Date and timings: Saturday, January 18, 2025 - Doors open 7pm
24. Ludovico Einaudi's live performance
Italian pianist and composer Ludovico Einaudi is set to perform for the first time in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Etihad Arena. The concert is presented in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, a company creating immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi.
Following three sold-out shows in Dubai earlier this year, Einaudi, who is one of the most-streamed classical artist of all time, will bring his musical talents to the UAE capital.
Having sold over 2.5 million albums globally, played shows in prestigious venues all around the world and composed for the big screen on shows such as 'This is England' and 'The Intouchables', and the award-winning 'Nomadland', fans can expect an unforgettable night of music and emotion to celebrate his Abu Dhabi debut.
Date and timings: Sunday, January 19, 2025 - Doors open 6pm
How to get there
International tourists
For those travelling from outside the UAE, reaching the Arena is simple. The most convenient option is to arrive at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), a mere seven-minute drive away. Once done you can explore Downtown Abu Dhabi and Dubai, which are also close by, taking 25 minutes and 45 minutes to drive to, respectively.
Taxi
Book a taxi by calling 600535353 or through the Abu Dhabi Taxi app, compatible with both iOS and Android phones.
Bus
Opt for the Bus Route number 190 to Yas Island, via the Abu Dhabi Bus Station near Al Wahda Mall, for convenient transportation from within the city. If heading to Abu Dhabi from another emirate, there are inter-city buses to reach the bus station, from where you can catch the Yas Island bus.
You can board buses to Abu Dhabi from Dubai at the Ibn Battuta Mall bus stop or at the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station. From Sharjah, 117 is the direct bus route number to Abu Dhabi.
