Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium: The Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi is one of the most important cricket venues in the Middle East, known for hosting international Tests, ODIs, T20Is, and major franchise tournaments. Located inside the Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub, Khalifa City, the stadium has become a neutral home for global cricket, especially during ICC tournaments and Asian events.
Opened in 2004, the stadium blends modern infrastructure with world-class playing conditions, making it a preferred venue for both players and fans.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium |
| Known As | President His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan |
| Location | Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, UAE |
| Address | Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub, UAE |
| Opened | May 2004 |
| Capacity | 20,000 spectators |
| Owner | Emirates Cricket Board |
| Ends | North End, Pavilion End |
| Floodlights | Yes |
| Time Zone | UTC +04:00 |
| Home Team | United Arab Emirates |
| Phone | +971 2 558 8331 |
Stadium History & Background
Built at a cost of $23 million by Concor, the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium was designed to elevate cricket in the UAE. The venue hosted its first first-class match in November 2004, featuring Scotland vs Kenya in the Intercontinental Cup.
Over the years, the stadium has hosted:
- ICC Test matches
- Asia Cup fixtures
- T20 World Cup games
- Franchise leagues like DP World ILT20
Its neutral conditions and excellent facilities make it a preferred venue for touring teams.
Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary depending on the tournament, match popularity, and seating category.
General Ticket Pricing
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | From AED 20 |
| Children (6–16 yrs) | From AED 10 |
| Average Ticket Price | $50 – $150 |
| High-Demand Matches | AED 40+ (basic seating) |
Ticket site
Visit official website.
Venue
Pitch Report & Playing Conditions
The pitch at Sheikh Zayed Stadium is generally balanced, offering something for both batters and bowlers depending on the format.
- Tests: Batting-friendly early, slower as the match progresses
- ODIs: High first-innings advantage
- T20s: Bowlers benefit slightly, especially under lights
Dew can play a role in night matches, often influencing captains to bowl first.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium – Test Match Records
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Total Test Matches | 15 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 9 |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 2 |
| Avg 1st Innings Score | 360 |
| Avg 4th Innings Score | 136 |
| Highest Total | 598/9 – ENG vs PAK |
| Lowest Total | 72 – ENG vs PAK |
| Highest Chase | 108/4 – AFG vs ZIM |
| Lowest Defended | 114 – PAK vs SL |
ODI Records at Sheikh Zayed Stadium
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Total ODI Matches | 57 |
| Avg 1st Innings Score | 251 |
| Highest Total | 343/4 – RSA vs IRE |
| Lowest Total | 63 – AFG vs SCO |
| Highest Chase | 295/6 – PAK vs WI |
| Lowest Defended | 180 – UAE vs PNG |
T20 & T20I Records
| Statistic | Record |
|---|---|
| Total T20 Matches | 98 |
| Avg 1st Innings Score | 138 |
| Highest Total | 225/7 – IRE vs AFG |
| Lowest Total | 54 – USAW vs THAIW |
| Highest Chase | 174/2 – RSA vs IRE |
| Lowest Defended | 93/8 – THAIW vs PNGW |
FAQs
What is Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium?
Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium is an international cricket venue located in Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It hosts Test matches, ODIs, T20Is, and major franchise tournaments.
When was Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium opened?
The stadium was officially opened in May 2004 and hosted its first first-class match later that year.
What is the seating capacity of the stadium?
The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 20,000 spectators.
Who owns Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium?
The stadium is owned and managed by the Emirates Cricket Board.
Does the stadium have floodlights?
Yes, Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium is fully equipped with floodlights for day-night matches.
Which teams play at Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium?
The UAE national team uses the stadium as its home ground, and it also hosts international teams as a neutral venue.
How can I buy tickets for matches?
Tickets can be purchased through official platforms such as the Abu Dhabi Cricket website, Platinumlist, Virgin Megastore Tickets, and other authorized sellers.
What is the starting price for match tickets?
Ticket prices can start from as low as AED 20 for select matches, with prices varying based on the event and seating category.
Are premium or VIP tickets available?
Yes, premium seating and hospitality packages are available for major matches and tournaments.
What are the two ends of the stadium called?
The two ends are known as the North End and the Pavilion End.
How do I reach Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium?
The stadium is easily accessible by car or taxi and is located about 30 minutes from Abu Dhabi city center.
What type of pitch does the stadium have?
The pitch generally offers balanced conditions, supporting both batters and bowlers depending on the format and match conditions.
Is parking available at the stadium?
Yes, on-site parking is usually available on match days, though arriving early is recommended for high-profile games.
Are food and refreshments available inside the stadium?
Yes, food and beverage stalls operate during match days for spectators.
Does the stadium host tournaments like ILT20 or Asia Cup matches?
Yes, Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium regularly hosts major tournaments, including franchise leagues and ICC events.
About The Author
