Four shows at Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi are almost here — here’s what you need to know.
With New Year’s festivities firmly behind us and the realities of 2025 kicking in — Coldplay is now on the brain. After months of anticipation and queuing online for hours, the British rock band’s four shows in Abu Dhabi are finally on the horizon. Here’s everything you need to know.
When and where?
Coldplay will perform at Zayed Sports City Stadium on January 9, 11, 12, and 14, 2025.
Fanzones open: 3:00pm
General entry to stadium: 5:00pm
Last entry: 8:30pm
The Fanzones, which open at 3:00pm, offer an immersive pre-show experience, featuring food stalls, beverage stands, merchandise counters, and interactive activities for fans to enjoy before heading into the main stadium. With a range of options catering to all tastes and ages, the Fanzones are the perfect way to gear up for the main event.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to make the most of the Fanzones and ensure a smooth entry into the stadium before the 8:30pm cutoff.
Travel and access
Getting to Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi is straightforward, but planning your journey in advance is essential to ensure a stress-free experience.
Shuttle buses: Free park-and-ride shuttle buses are available for attendees and are the most convenient way to reach the venue. For fans traveling from Dubai, buses will depart from Expo City Dubai starting at 12:50 pm. In Abu Dhabi, shuttle services will operate from multiple locations, including Al Shahama, Sas Al Nakhl, Al Raha, and Nation Towers, with departures beginning at 1:57 pm.
Seats on shuttle buses departing from Expo City Dubai and Al Shahama are available on a first-come, first-served basis via Ticketmaster, so early booking is recommended. Return shuttles will operate post-concert, ensuring a hassle-free journey back to your departure point. Details on bus schedules and departure times will be updated on Live Nation Middle East.
Driving: For those driving from Dubai, the fastest route is E11, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes during non-peak hours. Alternatively, you can use E311 to avoid tolls, though this route takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, note that there is no parking at the venue or surrounding roads to accommodate the large number of attendees, so the shuttle service is strongly advised.
Taxis and ride-sharing: Hailing a taxi or using ride-sharing apps like Careem or Yango is another convenient option. A one-way trip from Dubai will cost at least AED 220, with prices potentially increasing during peak hours. If using a ride-share service, confirm your pickup and drop-off locations in advance to avoid delays in high-traffic areas near the stadium.
Public transportation: Budget-conscious fans can take the RTA bus #94, which operates from Wahat Al Karamah station in Dubai and stops at Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi. From there, it’s a short walk to the venue entrance. Check the latest bus schedules online for timing and frequency.
Food & beverage
From food trucks serving gourmet burgers, shawarma, and artisanal pizzas to pop-up stands offering lighter bites like salads and sushi, the food options are plentiful. Fans with dietary restrictions will also be catered to, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available throughout the venue.
For those looking to enjoy a drink, a selection of non-alcoholic beverages, mocktails, and coffee will be available alongside alcoholic options, including beer, wine, and cocktails. Note that alcohol sales will only be available to attendees aged 21 and over, and a valid ID may be required for purchase.
As the event is cashless, all food and beverage purchases must be made using credit/debit cards or mobile payment options. Guests are encouraged to travel light, as only small bags (no larger than A4 size) are permitted inside the venue.
Additionally, eco-conscious fans can bring a refillable water bottle (up to 750ml, no metal or glass) to take advantage of free water stations throughout the venue, minimising waste and staying hydrated for what promises to be an energetic show.
Who else is performing?
French hip-hop artist Shone will kick off the evenings, followed by Elyanna, the Palestinian-Chilean singer-songwriter known for blending Arabic and pop music. Her performance will include “We Pray,” her recent collaboration with Coldplay.
Shone: 6:00 pm – 6:15 pm
Elyanna: 6:30 pm – 7:15 pm
Coldplay: 7:45 pm
Are tickets still available?
Sadly, all dates for the Abu Dhabi shows are sold out. Fans can sign up for updates on future ticket releases via the Live Nation Middle East website. Avoid unauthorised resellers to steer clear of counterfeit tickets.
Other essential information
Cashless Event: Payments at the venue will be cashless. Bring your credit/debit cards or use mobile payment options.
Children: Kids under 5 aren’t permitted, and under-14s must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or older. Pitch standing is restricted to those aged 14 and above.
Prohibited Items: Check www.livenation.me/coldplay for the list of restricted items to avoid any surprises.
For more details, visit Live Nation Middle East.
DSCVR: Coldplay. Zayed Sports City Stadium, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi. @coldplay @livenationme
