Industry News

Abu Dhabi’s Yas Arena design unveiled

The proposed design for Yas Arena, set to be the first multipurpose arena in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, has been unveiled.

Hok, the stadium’s designer, revealed its illuminated lantern façade on the waterfront promenade.

The arena is designed to expand from a 500-seat theatre into an 18,000-capacity venue.

Along with partners Pascall+Watson, Hok also designed the adjacent arena retail and dining building along the boardwalk.

The proposed stadium is designed to host a variety of events, including community gatherings, concerts, performances, sporting events, and meetings and conventions. Premium spaces include a VIP lounge that can be transformed into a grand ballroom for events, hospitality boxes and unique terrace bars for receptions and parties.

“Our goal is to create an exceptional entertainment experience for fans and spectators,” said John Rhodes, a director of Hok’s Sports, Recreation and Entertainment practice.

“Yas Arena will be the centrepiece of the development and serve as a destination on Yas Island.

“Our team knew the building needed to be smart, adaptable and technologically-advanced in order to efficiently transform for the wide variety of events the client wished to host.

“This transformability will make Yas Arena one of the most sophisticated arenas in the world.”

Jonathan Brown, development director of Miral Asset Management, the entity responsible for the development of the broad southern part of Yas Island, said: “The development of the UAE’s first 18,000 capacity-arena will place Yas Island among the leaders for performance and events venues.

“We’re proud to set a new benchmark in the industry as we provide visitors with even bigger and better events to enjoy—all of which will perfectly showcase Yas Island’s excellence and energy.”