Hey there, music lover! If you’re anywhere near Abu Dhabi arena area this October, you’re in for a treat. The city’s biggest indoor venue, Etihad Arena on Yas Island is with full of energy, lights and world-class acts that are going to make this month unforgettable.
We checked the official event listings, ticket sites, and a few trusted local guides like Bayut Events Guide, Tixs.ae, and Abu Dhabi Travel Planner and, well, you won’t believe how stacked October is.
So, grab your planner (and maybe your concert buddies), because we’re breaking down the top October concerts at Abu Dhabi Arena that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
Top October Concerts at Abu Dhabi Arena Area: Must-See Performances This Month
| Date | Artist / Event | Genre / Style | Tickets From (AED) | Source |
| 9 Oct 2025 | The Smashing Pumpkins – Rock Invasion 2025 Tour | Alternative Rock | 325 | Bayut Events Abu Dhabi |
| 11 Oct 2025 | Abdul Majeed Abdallah – Live in Abu Dhabi | Arabic / Khaleeji | 435 | Tixs.ae |
| 18 Oct 2025 | André Rieu & His Johann Strauss Orchestra | Classical / Waltz | 225 | Bayut Events |
| 21 Oct 2025 (TBC) | Scorpions – Live in Abu Dhabi | Hard Rock | 200 | Ticketle.ae |
The Smashing Pumpkins – Rock Invasion 2025 Tour
Date: 9 October 2025
Tickets from: AED 325
Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Source: Bayut Events Abu Dhabi
You heard that right, The Smashing Pumpkins are coming to Abu Dhabi. The alternative rock legends are bringing their Rock Invasion 2025 Tour to Etihad Arena, and it’s going to be loud, nostalgic, and full of those ‘90s alt-rock vibes we all secretly (or not-so-secretly) love.
Expect to hear classics like 1979, Tonight, Tonight, and Bullet with Butterfly Wings, plus a few surprises from their newer albums. If you’ve ever wanted to see Billy Corgan’s haunting vocals echo through a world-class arena, this is your moment.
The sound system at Etihad Arena is top-notch, and with its capacity of over 18,000 people, you’ll be surrounded by energy. Pro tip: grab your seats early, floor sections usually sell out fast.
Abdul Majeed Abdallah – Live in Abu Dhabi
Date: 11 October 2025
Tickets from: AED 435
Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Source: Tixs.ae
Now, for something closer to home, the legendary Abdul Majeed Abdallah is performing live. If you’ve grown up with Arabic or Khaleeji music, you already know this man’s voice is pure gold. His concerts are known for their emotional atmosphere, elegant stage setups, and timeless hits that everyone sings along to.
This event will pull a massive crowd, so if you’re planning to go, aim to reach early (doors open around 7 PM). The arena’s seating ensures everyone gets a good view, but for this one, the mid-tier seats (around AED 500–600) offer a great balance between sound and comfort.
Honestly, it’s one of those shows where you’ll leave feeling proud of the region’s rich musical culture.
André Rieu & His Johann Strauss Orchestra
Date: 18 October 2025
Tickets from: AED 225
Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island
Source: Bayut Events
Here’s one for the classy crowd or anyone who just wants a magical night out. Dutch violinist and conductor André Rieu, often called the “King of Waltz,” will bring his Johann Strauss Orchestra to Abu Dhabi.
His concerts are famous for their joy, elegance, and light-hearted humor. It’s the kind of event you could take your parents to, or enjoy with someone special.
If you’re new to orchestral music, don’t worry. Rieu’s shows are lively, not stiff. You’ll laugh, maybe tear up a little, and definitely leave humming a tune or two.
Scorpions – Live in Abu Dhabi (TBC)
Date: 21 October 2025
Tickets from: AED 200
Venue: Etihad Arena
Source: Ticketle.ae
Classic rock fans, this one’s for you! The Scorpions, one of the most iconic German rock bands ever, are set to light up Abu Dhabi with a night of anthems like Wind of Change, Rock You Like a Hurricane, and Still Loving You.
But, heads-up: according to some fans on Reddit Abu Dhabi, there’s chatter that the show might be postponed or canceled. So double-check the status before booking. If it’s confirmed, though, you can bet the atmosphere will be electric.
Quick Notes About the Venue
- Etihad Arena is located on Yas Island, just 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 50 minutes from Dubai Marina.
- It’s part of the Yas Bay Waterfront, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and attractions like Ferrari World and Yas Mall, so you can easily make a full evening of it.
- Capacity: up to 18,000 seats, making it the largest indoor entertainment venue in the Middle East (Source: EtihadArena.ae).
- The acoustics? Fantastic. The arena was designed for concerts, with retractable seating and top-grade sound engineering.
Parking is easy if you drive, and taxis or Careem rides are always available. You can also grab a shuttle if you’re staying on Yas Island.
Pro Tips Before You Go
- Buy early — prices tend to jump closer to the date.
- Arrive at least an hour before the show starts; security checks and lines can take a while.
- Bring a light jacket — the arena air-conditioning can get chilly during long shows.
- And if you’re visiting from abroad, check out nearby hotels like W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island or Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island — both are walking distance from the arena.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, October at Etihad Arena looks like a mini music festival in itself. From the raw power of The Smashing Pumpkins to the soul of Abdul Majeed Abdallah and the elegance of André Rieu, there’s a little something for everyone.
Honestly, we love that Abu Dhabi is becoming such a major music hub, the kind of place where global legends and regional icons share the same stage in one month.
So, what do you think which concert would you pick? The rock anthems, the waltzes, or the Arabic soul? Either way, grab your tickets, round up your crew, and get ready for a month of unforgettable nights under the Yas Island lights.
Where are the October concerts in Abu Dhabi taking place?
All concerts are happening at Etihad Arena, located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
How can I buy tickets for these concerts?
You can purchase tickets from trusted sites like Tixs.ae, Ticketle.ae, or check Bayut Events and the Etihad Arena official website for verified links.
What time should I arrive at the venue?
It’s best to arrive at least one hour before showtime to allow time for parking, security checks, and finding your seat.
Is parking available at Etihad Arena?
Yes, ample parking is available, and you can also reach the arena easily via taxi, Careem, or Yas Island shuttles.
What should I bring to the concert?
Bring your ticket (digital or printed), a valid ID, and a light jacket—the air-conditioning inside can get chilly.
