Etihad Airways has secured the exclusive naming rights for a new 18,000-capacity venue at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.
Called the Etihad Arena, the multi-purpose indoor entertainment facility is being developed by Abu Dhabi-based Miral and according to reports will open this year.
Operated by Flash Entertainment, the Etihad Arena has been designed to accommodate large-scale and private events, offering a capacity ranging from 200 to 18,000 people. Once open, the venue will host a variety of events including sporting competitions, corporate events, cultural performances and concerts.
The Etihad Arena will be a major addition to Yas Bay Waterfront, which will also include the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, a beach club as well as a pier that boasts 12 licensed cafes and restaurants, and 19 retail outlets.
Tony Douglas, group CEO of Etihad Aviation Group, said: “It’s an honour to partner with an Abu Dhabi institution such as Miral on this joint venture, that will further promote Abu Dhabi and Yas Island as a hub for entertainment, tourism and culture.
The new venue will be a significant addition to the unique offerings on Yas Island
“Etihad Arena complements our global presence at a number of sporting and entertainment venues, most notably Etihad Stadium in Manchester, home of Manchester City Football Club. This new arena will bring an abundance of talent to our capital, providing a diverse range of entertainment options for guests visiting our beautiful city, or for those who call the UAE home.”
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, added: “As our national airline with international reach, Etihad Airways is the ideal partner to help position the newly named Etihad Arena competitively on the local and regional map of live entertainment destinations.
“The new venue will be a significant addition to the unique offerings on Yas Island and in Abu Dhabi, creating unforgettable experiences, and helping us deliver on our vision to position Yas Island as a top global destination for entertainment, leisure and business.”
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