Fingers crossed for a lot more A-list world tours come 2018…

Dubai’s no stranger to mega-structures – and some of this year’s latest have already provided a space for the performing arts (think Dubai Opera).

However a new announcement looks set to shake up the region’s entertainment scene with a venue to rival the world’s best.

Plans have been revealed for Dubai Arena – a 500,000 square foot, all-purpose, indoor stadium that will seat 20,000 when finished.

The best part? The air-conditioned hub is going to be situated in right in the centre of town at City Walk.

The stadium is being built by developers Meraas, and will be used for international music concerts, sporting and entertainment events and more.

dubai arena

The seating can be moved, allowing the stadium to be transformed depending on the size or scale of the event taking place.

Construction on Dubai Arena is already under way, with an expected completion date in the last quarter of 2018.

dubai arena

A large space inside City Walk has already been cleared for the arena’s construction

Speaking about the stadium, Meraas’ Group Chairman, Abdulla Al Habbai, said: “Dubai Arena will host famous and world-renowned athletes, artists and performers and attract tourists to Dubai all year round.

“It will also host large global events and performances that have not visited the region as yet, due to the lack of a suitable platform for holding similar events.”

The venue will be managed by AEG Ogden, who also work with London’s O2 arena and the Staples Centre in Los Angeles.

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Dubai Arena isn’t the only stadium coming, though…

While impressive, it’s not the only massive venue that’s been announced this year.

Plans for the 60,000 capacity Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid football stadium were revealed back in May.

The coolest part about it? The stadium’s unique design, which features a permeable skin to allow for natural ventilation.

Dubai Sports Stadium

The Dhs3 billion stadium will be located in Al Aweer and will be fully air-conditioned with facilities including exercise pitches, a sports training hall as well as a 5,000 capacity car park, a sports museum, a multi-purpose hall and conference and exhibition auditoriums.

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Images: Supplied