All about the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi
When fans come together in hundreds or even thousands, the energy is simply electric. Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi stands as one of the UAE’s most impressive sporting venues, having staged many unforgettable matches. It has proudly hosted major tournaments including the ICC T20 World Cup, Pakistan Super League (PSL), Indian Premier League (IPL), T10 League and the International League T20. But what’s the story behind this iconic stadium? Keep reading to find out.
SHEIKH ZAYED STADIUM ABU DHABI – AN OVERVIEW
There can be little debate that Sharjah Cricket Stadium laid the foundation for cricket in the UAE. The historical clashes between India and Pakistan at the stadium throughout the 80s and 90s shaped cricket in the country in many ways. However, since the mid-2000s, Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi has created its own legacy, and it’s a rich one!
Named after the Founding Father of the UAE, His Highness (Late) Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may he forever rest in peace), the stadium was established in 2004. Almost $22 million was spent on installing modern facilities in the cricket stadium, including floodlights. Presently, Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium’s capacity is 20,000.
THE LAYOUT
As a world-class cricket facility in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Stadium is designed with a unique layout that sets it apart. The ground features two main stands at either end, known as the North End and Pavilion End. These banks give the venue a feel similar to stadiums in New Zealand and South Africa. However, spectators often come prepared with umbrellas or sunglasses since the area offers little shade.
Unlike many other stadiums, there is no separate pavilion here. Instead, players benefit from modern, air-conditioned dressing rooms and changing areas located beneath one of the stands. Teams and officials can also use temperature-controlled glass rooms, part of the wider Abu Dhabi cricket and sports hub facilities, to ensure comfort and convenience.
With state-of-the-art floodlights, the venue easily accommodates day-night fixtures. When it comes to cricket pitch conditions in Abu Dhabi, the surface at Sheikh Zayed Stadium is typically firm, providing good bounce for bowlers while still offering batsmen the chance to play long innings and even rack up centuries on slightly slower tracks.
CRICKETING HISTORY
Sheikh Zayed Stadium quickly carved a niche in international cricket, starting with its first ODI match in 2006, featuring a highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan game as part of the Friendship Cup. This venue has since hosted numerous significant matches and tournaments, including:
- Test matches starting in 2010 with Pakistan vs. South Africa.
- T20 Internationals beginning in 2010, including Afghanistan vs. Scotland during the World Twenty20 Qualifier.
- Serving as a home base for the Pakistan cricket team from 2010 onward, hosting series against top cricketing nations like Australia, England, West Indies, New Zealand, South Africa and Sri Lanka.
- Hosting matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) starting in 2019 and notable fixtures therein.
- Being a dedicated venue for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2021, including the Super 12 stage and a semi-final.
- Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in 2014 and the tournament’s later seasons, including 2020 and 2021.
The ground has witnessed some remarkable batting feats, including four double centuries across seven Test matches played here. It is also known for good bounce that aids bowlers but maintains a batting-friendly nature. Notably, Ireland’s Paul Stirling scored the most T20I runs at the venue, while Oman’s Bilal Khan leads in wickets taken.
MEMORABLE MOMENTS
One of the standout moments at the stadium came in April 2006, when India and Pakistan faced off in two charity matches. These games were organised to support survivors of the 2005 Pakistan earthquake and aimed to raise $10 million for relief efforts. Years later, in 2021, Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz lit up the shorter format with a blistering T20 innings that announced him as a rising star on the global stage.
SHEIKH ZAYED CRICKET STADIUM ABU DHABI’S CURATOR
In 2004, Mohan Singh took on the role of curator at Zayed Cricket Stadium Abu Dhabi, a decision that proved to be a true masterstroke. For 16 years, he dedicated himself to the game with passion and precision. Sadly, his journey came to an end in 2021 when he passed away at just 45.
Thanks to the exceptional work of Mohan and his team, the stadium became a stage for unforgettable cricketing brilliance. Fans have witnessed world-class performances from legends like AB de Villiers, Alastair Cook, Shane Watson, Saeed Ajmal, Younus Khan, Kumar Sangakkara, Chris Gayle, Dale Steyn, Kevin Pietersen and many more.
SHEIKH ZAYED CRICKET STADIUM LOCATION
Located about a 30-minute drive from Abu Dhabi’s city centre, the stadium is set in a relatively remote area, which helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere during matches.
You can follow the map below to reach the Sheikh Zayed Stadium cricket venue.
FAQS
HOW MANY SPECTATORS CAN THE SHEIKH ZAYED CRICKET STADIUM ACCOMMODATE?
Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi can accommodate around 20,000 spectators.
WHICH MAJOR CRICKET TOURNAMENTS HAVE BEEN HOSTED AT SHEIKH ZAYED STADIUM?
The stadium has hosted several high-profile events, including the ICC T20 World Cup, Pakistan Super League (PSL), Indian Premier League (IPL), T10 League and International League T20 (ILT20).
WHAT SPORTING EVENTS WILL BE HOSTED IN ABU DHABI THIS YEAR?
Loads of exciting tournaments are scheduled, but the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, happening in September, will remain one of the top events of the year!
WHICH ARE THE TOP SPORTS BARS IN ABU DHABI?
Want to watch your favourite teams compete with your friends? Here’s a list of top sports bars in Abu Dhabi you can check out.
This concludes our look at one of the most popular stadiums in the region. With exciting tournaments in the country often, it’s a great time to be a cricket fan in the UAE. Who knows, the authorities might work to increase the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium’s capacity.
Along with this cricket arena, there are other stadiums in Abu Dhabi catering to different sports. Similarly, there are some top-class stadiums in Dubai.
Visit MyBayut to learn more about the top sporting facilities in the UAE.
Featured Image Credit: Zayed Sports City Facebook Page
