According to information compiled by FEW.ae editor, legendary singer Sir Rod Stewart will take the stage at Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on 17 December 2025 in a concert produced by Live Nation Middle East in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral.
Venue Profile: Etihad Arena and Its Features
Etihad Arena, perched on the waterfront of Yas Bay in Yas Island, is one of the Middle East’s most advanced indoor entertainment venues. The venue’s official media literature states that it can host up to 18,000 standing guests and is built around a 3,565 m² main bowl that houses the region’s largest rigging grid. It also features flexible configurations, bowl-reduction curtains, and a rolling stage system to adapt to different event formats.
Architecturally, the arena was designed by HOK and awarded for sustainable design, with features such as sun-shade louvers, optimized facade geometry, and solar energy components to reduce heat gain and balance internal climate control. The structural footprint spans roughly 409,030 ft² (≈38,000 m²). The arena includes 17 luxury suites and a club lounge, as well as extensive digital signage: more than 250 screens managed by Cisco Vision across the venue.
In terms of location and access, Etihad Arena sits just 7 minutes by road from Abu Dhabi International Airport and approximately 45 minutes from Dubai. The venue is part of Yas Island’s entertainment precinct, which includes theme parks, waterfront promenades, and hospitality zones. Parking is ample and neighborhood roads are optimized for event traffic; accessibility features for guests with reduced mobility are also in place.
Timing, Tickets, and Event Policies
Doors are slated to open at 20:00 (8:00 PM local time) with the concert commencing at 20:00 or shortly thereafter. (Some sources mention “doors open 18:00” but the majority indicate 20:00 start)
Ticket categories cover a wide range: from Floor Diamond (AED 995) to Lower Tier Standard (AED 195), with intermediate tiers such as Floor Gold and Lower Tier Silver, Bronze, etc. Accessible seating is available via the venue concierge.
A number of rules are communicated to attendees:
- No re-entry into the venue once you leave.
- Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable; reselling outside authorized channels, such as via Viagogo, may result in invalidation.
- Large bags (over 30×30×15 cm), strollers (though stroller parking is provided), professional cameras, and flags are prohibited.
- A digital ticket system is used: your phone becomes your QR code ticket, scanned at turnstiles.
- Under-16 attendees must be accompanied by someone aged 21 or above.
Artist in Focus: Sir Rod Stewart
Sir Rod Stewart, often described as a living music legend, has sold over 250 million records worldwide. His work spans rock, folk, soul, R&B, and the Great American Songbook, making him one of the few artists to achieve chart success in multiple genres across many decades. He holds two inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, has been knighted (hence “Sir”), and has been honored with major awards in songwriting and lifetime achievement categories.
This concert is part of his global touring schedule under the “One More Time” tour banner, and will feature a mix of his enduring classics like Maggie May, Forever Young, The First Cut Is the Deepest, and possibly selections from his latest album Swing Fever.
What to Expect on the Night
Attendees will be treated to a top-tier audio-visual production—the arena’s design and infrastructure support high fidelity sound, large-scale rigging, and configurable staging for dynamic presentation. VIP and hospitality boxes offer premium viewing, often with dedicated service.
Given the December climate in Abu Dhabi, outdoor pre- and post-event environments are expected to be mild and pleasant. December weather averages show daytime highs around 25–26 °C and evening lows near 16–19 °C, with very low rainfall likelihood (≈2–3 rainy days per month) and nominal humidity. The cooling design of the arena’s structure and internal climate control should ensure comfortable indoor conditions.
Logistics & Arrival Tips
Travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (if applicable) is about 45 minutes by car; those arriving by air land just minutes from the arena via Abu Dhabi International Airport. Traffic should be managed with event signage, and parking is ample at the venue. Public transport options include bus route 190 linking parts of Abu Dhabi to Yas Island, though many attendees choose taxis or ride-share. Etihad Arena
Walk to the arena along Yas Bay’s waterfront boardwalk is possible from nearby zones, adding to the experience. Attendees should review prohibited items and access guidelines ahead of time, arrive early to avoid delays, and ensure digital tickets are accessible and ready to scan.
With full respect to the cultural sensitivities of the UAE, event attendees are advised to dress modestly and respectfully, and behave in accordance with local traditions.
then "Add to Home Screen"