Etihad Airways has signed an exclusive naming rights deal of the venue and the facility has been renamed the Etihad Arena for an undisclosed fee.
ABU DHABI - A new mega entertainment venue on Abu Dhabi's iconic Yas Island - Yas Bay Arena - has been given a fresh name.
Yas Island developer Miral announced on Jan 8 that Etihad Airways has signed an exclusive naming rights deal of the venue and the facility has been renamed the Etihad Arena for an undisclosed fee.
With a capacity of up to 18,000 people, the new multi-purpose indoor venue will be able to host large-scale and private events including sporting competitions, corporate events, cultural performances and concerts.
The Etihad Arena, to be opened sometime this year, will be operated by Flash Entertainment, Gulf Business reported.
Etihad Arena is part of Yas Bay, a mixed-use development located on the southern end of Yas Island.
Yas Bay encompasses three areas: Yas Bay Waterfront, the Residences at Yas Bay and twofour54. The Etihad Arena will be part of the Yas Bay Waterfront, which will also include the Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, a beach club and a pier with 12 licensed cafes and restaurants, and 19 retail outlets.
John Lickrish, CEO of Flash Entertainment in Abu Dhabi, said the company's local and regional experience will ensure that it is able to attract events to the venue.
"This will be a major driver of growth for the entertainment and cultural sector in Abu Dhabi," he said.