Etihad Park is one of the most important live event venues in Abu Dhabi. Located on Yas Island, it is best known for hosting massive outdoor concerts, international artists, and the famous Formula 1 after-race shows. If you’re planning to attend a concert or event here, this guide covers everything you actually need to know — without overcomplication.
What Is Etihad Park?
Etihad Park is a large open-air entertainment venue on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. It is considered the largest outdoor event venue in the Middle East, with the capacity to host tens of thousands of people at once.
Unlike indoor arenas, Etihad Park is designed for big concerts, festivals, and large-scale live shows, especially during the UAE’s cooler months. The venue becomes most active during major events like the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Entry Fees & Timings
Location: Yas Island Abu Dhabi (30 min city center, 1hr Dubai)
Entry Fee Table (AED):
| Access Type | Adult | Child | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Admission | 200+ | 100+ | Standing concert zone |
| Yasalam F1 Concert | 500+ | 300+ | After-race artist + VIP access |
| VIP Hospitality | 1500+ | 1000+ | Premium viewing + private lounge |
Open only during events. Peak: Nov-Mar F1 weekend.
Best Time: Nov F1 after-race (global artists/mild weather).
Where Is Etihad Park Located?
Etihad Park is located on Yas Island, one of Abu Dhabi’s main entertainment districts. It sits close to:
- Yas Marina Circuit
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
- Yas Mall
- Yas Beach
From Abu Dhabi city center, it usually takes around 30 minutes by car. From Dubai, the drive is about 1 hour, depending on traffic.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber are the easiest way to reach the venue during events.
What Kind of Events Happen at Etihad Park?
Etihad Park is mainly used for live music and entertainment events. Over the years, it has hosted world-famous international artists, large music festivals, and cultural shows.
The most famous events held here are the Yasalam After-Race Concerts, which take place during the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. These concerts usually happen at night and feature global music stars.
Besides F1 concerts, Etihad Park also hosts:
- International music concerts
- Seasonal festivals
- Special entertainment events
- Large public celebrations
Events are not held daily, so it’s best to check the official schedule before planning your visit.
Etihad Park Capacity and Layout
Etihad Park is an open-air venue with a flexible layout. Depending on the event, the capacity can reach around 40,000 people.
The venue usually includes:
- Standing areas near the stage
- General admission zones
- VIP and hospitality sections
Since it is outdoors, there are no fixed seats like an indoor arena. Most concerts are standing events, especially closer to the stage.
Tickets and Entry Information
Tickets for Etihad Park events are sold online through official ticketing partners. Prices depend on the artist, event type, and seating or standing category.
Important things to know:
- Tickets are usually digital
- ID checks may be required
- Security checks are strict
- Re-entry is often not allowed
For F1 week concerts, access may be included with certain Grand Prix tickets.
Is Etihad Park Family-Friendly?
It depends on the event.
Some concerts and festivals are suitable for families, while others may have age restrictions. Loud music, large crowds, and late-night timings are common.
If you are visiting with children:
- Check age rules before booking
- Consider standing time and noise levels
- VIP areas are usually more comfortable
Best Time to Visit Etihad Park
The best time to attend events at Etihad Park is between November and March. During this period, the weather in Abu Dhabi is cooler and ideal for outdoor concerts.
Summer events are rare due to high temperatures. Most major events are scheduled in the evening or at night.
Facilities at Etihad Park
Facilities may vary by event, but generally include:
- Food and beverage stalls
- Restrooms
- Medical support
- Security staff
- Accessible entry for people with disabilities
Since events attract large crowds, arriving early helps avoid long queues.
Nearby Attractions to Combine Your Visit
One of the biggest advantages of Etihad Park is its location. You can easily plan a full day on Yas Island by visiting nearby attractions like:
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi
- Yas Waterworld
- Yas Mall for shopping and dining
- Yas Marina for waterfront views
Many visitors combine a concert night with theme parks or shopping during the day.
Etihad Park vs Etihad Arena
Many travelers confuse Etihad Park with Etihad Arena, but they are different venues.
- Etihad Park: Outdoor, very large, used for massive concerts and festivals
- Etihad Arena: Indoor, smaller, used for sports events, comedy shows, and concerts
Knowing the difference helps avoid confusion when booking tickets.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes (standing is common)
- Arrive early to avoid traffic
- Bring minimal items due to security checks
- Check weather forecasts
- Follow official event guidelines
FAQs About Etihad Park
Is Etihad Park open every day?
No, Etihad Park only opens during scheduled events.
How many people can Etihad Park hold?
The venue can host around 40,000 people, depending on the event setup.
Is parking available at Etihad Park?
Yes, parking is available on Yas Island, but during big events, parking areas can be busy. Taxis are often easier.
Can you bring food inside Etihad Park?
Outside food and drinks are usually not allowed. Food stalls are available inside during events.
Is Etihad Park good for tourists?
Yes. Many tourists plan their Abu Dhabi trip around major concerts or F1 events held at Etihad Park.
Final Thoughts
Etihad Park is not just a concert venue; it’s a key part of Abu Dhabi’s entertainment scene. If you enjoy live music, large-scale events, and vibrant atmospheres, attending an event here is a memorable experience. With the right planning, your visit to Etihad Park can easily become a highlight of your trip to Yas Island.
Hi, I’m Haseeb Ahmed, the founder of KhaleejBlog.com — a premier travel platform dedicated to providing practical and up-to-date travel tips across Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. My mission is to help travelers explore the Gulf region with ease, discover hidden gems, and make the most of every journey.
