Coldplay live in Abu Dhabi: Your ultimate guide to tonight’s concert
Everything you need to know about timings, transport, and making the most of the night
Tonight, Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres world tour lights up Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Sports City Stadium for its second of four spectacular shows.
The British band’s stop in the UAE capital is part of their globe-trotting journey, with concerts scheduled between January 9-14, promising fans an unforgettable musical experience.
For those lucky enough to have tickets, here’s your complete guide to making the most of this much-anticipated event.
Getting to the venue
To ease congestion and support sustainability, there is no parking at the venue. Fans can opt for free park-and-ride shuttle buses to reach the stadium.
- From Dubai: Buses will depart Expo City Dubai starting at 12:50pm, and pre-booking is required.
- Within Abu Dhabi: Shuttles will run from Al Shahama, Sas Al Nakhl, Al Raha, and Nation Towers from 1:57pm. Tickets are not required for these services, but seats are on a first-come, first-served basis.
For those arriving by private car or taxi, signage will direct you to designated pick-up and drop-off areas. Be prepared for heavy traffic, especially after the concert.
What to expect at Coldplay concert
Fanzones: Open from 3pm, featuring exclusive merchandise and food stalls.
Stadium Entry: Doors open at 5pm, and last entry is at 8:30pm.
Performances:
- 6:00pm – French hip-hop artist Shone kicks things off.
- 6:30pm – Palestinian singer-songwriter Elyanna takes the stage.
- 7:45pm – Coldplay begins their show-stopping performance.
What to bring (and leave behind)
Permitted:
- Credit/debit cards or mobile payment (the event is cashless).
- Small bags (no larger than A4 size).
- Refillable water bottles (non-metal, non-glass, and up to 750ml).
Prohibited: Items such as glass containers, professional cameras, selfie sticks, alcohol, strollers, and umbrellas are not allowed. A full list is available on Live Nation’s website.
Good News: Power banks are now permitted after being previously banned.
Tips for a memorable night
- Arrive Early: Aim to get there by 4:30pm to beat the rush.
- Don’t Miss Elyanna: Her 6:15pm set is a must-see, featuring intricate choreography and soulful melodies.
- Secure Your Spot: General admission ticket holders should arrive early to find the best location, especially as the band will perform on a central stage during part of the show.
- Comfort is Key: Wear comfortable shoes, as the venue is vast, and you’ll likely walk a lot.
- Collect Your Wristband and Glasses: These enhance the concert experience with light-up effects and hidden animations.
Food and merchandise
Food Options: From Costa Coffee to West to West Kitchen, offering Caribbean and West African flavours. The jerk chicken is a fan favourite.
Merchandise: Look for exclusive Abu Dhabi-themed T-shirts and tour posters.
After the concert
Leaving the venue can be challenging due to crowds. Consider relaxing at nearby spots like the Millennium Al Rawdah hotel to avoid traffic. For those driving back to Dubai, plan for potential delays.
What’s next for Coldplay?
After Abu Dhabi, the band heads to India for concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, marking their return to the country after eight years.