Ethara, Oak View Group assume operations of Zayed Sports City

Oak View Group (OVG) and Ethara, recently appointed as the new operators, have officially assumed management of the iconic Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi.

With Zayed Sports City established as one of the UAE’s premier venues, OVG Middle East is focusing on boosting growth at all its facilities – Zayed Sports City Stadium, International Tennis Centre, Khalifa International Bowling Centre, Zayed Sports City Ice Rink, and Pavilion – as part of a broader strategy to transform the venue and hospitality industry in the region.

OVG and Ethara appointed Danny Klima as general manager and other management roles, including Mohamed Bu Debs as corporate services executive director and Christoff Cronje as operations director.

“We aim to infuse Zayed Sports City with new energy, crafting a vibrant space that celebrates its heritage, deepens its ties with the community, and offers new programs and opportunities that inspire active lifestyles, foster grassroots talent, and create experiences that are inclusive and accessible for all ages and backgrounds,” Klima said in a statement.

“We will be focused on making it a destination that not only hosts world-class events but continues to play a vital role in shaping the sports culture of the UAE, inspiring future generations to carry its torch forward.”

Since its opening in 1980, Zayed Sports City has established itself as a pillar of community sports in the UAE, hosting major events like the Mubadala World Tennis Championships, the WTA-sanctioned Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open, five FIFA Club World Cup editions, the AFC Asian Cup, UAE National Day celebrations, the President’s Cup for Ice Hockey, World Bowling Championships, WWE Live, Special Olympics World Games, Monster Jam, and significant visits from dignitaries, including Pope Francis and India’s Prime Minister Modi.

Meanwhile, Coldplay will perform at Zayed Sports City on January 9, 11, 12, and 14, 2025, as part of their global ‘Music of the Spheres’ World Tour. The four sold-out shows will be the UAE’s largest ticketed music event to date.

Each evening at the iconic venue will feature a carefully curated lineup of performances, beginning with the opening of the Fanzones at 3 p.m., where attendees can enjoy entertainment and activities. General entry into the stadium starts at 5 p.m., giving fans ample time to settle in before the music begins.

The evening will kick off with a performance by Shone, a modern French hip-hop artist known for his energetic stage presence. Following Shone at 6:30 p.m. is Elyanna, a Palestinian-Chilean singer-songwriter acclaimed for her unique fusion of Arabic and pop music.

Coldplay will take the stage for a spectacular set at 7:45 p.m., featuring the group’s greatest hits and immersive visuals that have become a hallmark of their global tour.

Read: Coldplay fever grips UAE as band announces fourth Abu Dhabi gig