Abu Dhabi is an emirate city home to some of the most beautiful and magnificent cultural landmarks and buildings. The capital emirate has strived hard to preserve the culture and heritage of the UAE. While the city still upholds its cultural image, it has also introduced several new aspects to boost tourism. Over a decade ago, Abu Dhabi began to open world-class amusement parks and entertainment avenues that became popular with tourists quickly. One such attraction is gaming arenas. The gaming and e-sports scene in Abu Dhabi has become quite popular, not just with the locals and residents but also with the tourists. Here you will get to know all about the gaming arenas and e-sports clubs in Abu Dhabi.
Why is Abu Dhabi a Paradise for Gamers?
Growth in Abu Dhabi is not limited to the construction of luxurious and unique buildings. While the architecture of the emirate city is amazing, the government has given equal importance and focus on entertainment and fun as well. This is the reason why you will find islands dedicated to entertainment and a whole lot of avenues for gaming and e-sports as well. Moreover, these avenues are a blend of superior innovation, technology, and infrastructure, providing you with a gaming experience like no other. While some of these avenues are where you can participate in the games, there are some where you can watch players/athletes competing against each other, some of them being world-renowned champions. Another thing that makes these gaming zones attractive is that most of them are indoor attractions. So, although the best time to visit Abu Dhabi  is between October and April, you can visit these places anytime during the year.
Top Gaming Arenas in Abu Dhabi
Here are some of the top gaming arenas, including e-sports events, simulators, karting zones, and play areas that you can visit in Abu Dhabi.
UFC 321 at Etihad Arena
If combat sports and entertainment is your cup of tea, UFC 321 is an event that you must not miss. October 2025 marks the 22nd entry of UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) 321 to Abu Dhabi. The event held at Etihad Arena will give you the chance to see world-class fighters combating each other in an adrenaline-rushing match like no other. While the main event lasts just one day, activities related to it will begin a week ago. You can be a part of meet-and-greet with participants, open workouts, entertainment popups, fitness activations, and so much more in Abu Dhabi. With an Abu Dhabi tour package, you can be a part of this amazing event.
NBA
Another world-popular sporting event that happens at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi is the NBA. Since October 2022, Abu Dhabi has been hosting the NBA preseason games at the Etihad Arena. Every year, basketball champions come to Abu Dhabi to compete in an action-packed game. The teams that have played here over the years include the Milwaukee Bucks, Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, and more. This basketball extravaganza involves several fun and interactive fan events like meeting up with current and former NBA players, VIP experiences, concerts, merchandising, and so much more.
Yas KartZone
If you want to experience an adrenaline rush not just by watching a game but by rather being a part of it, Yas KartZone is a place you must visit. Located on Yas Island, Yas KartZone is located at Yas Marina Circuit and is one of the best places for go-karting in Abu Dhabi. Yas KartZone has a 1-km long track with three configurations to ensure that people of all levels of skills can have a fun time here. The best part is that here you will find karts for different age groups, including 5–7-year-olds, 8–12-year-olds, and 13+ as well. In short, this is one of the best places to enjoy with family and friends. Yas KartZone accepts individual bookings as well as group bookings, including corporate events.
Ferrari World E-Sports Arena
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an F1 inspired theme park loved by locals and tourists alike. The theme park has more than 40 thrilling rides, including the fastest rollercoaster, the Formula Rossa. In 2024, Ferrari World opened its Esports Arena, one of the best racing simulator facilities in the world. Here, you will get to experience the Formula One experience while trying out the GT simulators and F1 simulators. The best part is that there are accessible-friendly simulators as well for people of determination. While the simulators are the star attractions of the arena, the design and aesthetics of the place are also to die for. The black and red palette, the LED wall installations, the lighting, and the audio-visual technology, everything adds to your F1 experience.
Zero Latency
Want to immerse yourself in the world of virtual reality while having a fun time with family and friends? Zero Latency is a place you must check out. Spread around an area of 225 square meters, Zero Latency is located in The Galleria at Al Maryah Island. A state-of-the-art play space, what makes Zero Latency stand apart is that it is a wireless and open area where you can move, run, and dodge without restraints. All the games here require 8 participants, and the games can be competitive and cooperative. This means you either play against each other or together against a common enemy. A whole list of virtual games is available for you, including Undead Arena (a zombie game, which is also the most popular), Far Cry VR, Engineerium, Sol Raiders, Outbreak Origins, and more. Each session can be anywhere between 15-30 minutes, depending on the game you have chosen.
Adrenark Adventure
Adrenark Adventure is an indoor adventure park where you can enjoy physical activities and rides that will give you an adrenaline rush. Spread around an area of 54,000 square feet, Adrenark Adventure is where you will get to enjoy different kinds of experiences, including thrilling, family-friendly, and creative ones. The place has something for everyone, right from kids to adults. Adrenark Adventure has Multiplex Karting, a multi-level e-karting track, a Drop Tower, Bungee Blast, Cave Explorer, Dune Safari, Climbing Wall, Rappeling Wall, Toddler Playland, Fun Walls Stunt Bags, Net Maze, Speed Glider, Valo Jump, and so much more. There is also a creative zone here, named Graffiti Art House, where you can try canvas art, fluid art, face art, and more. Adrenak Adventure also has a soft play area for the little ones.
Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi’s Gaming Arenas
- Always book the tickets to the gaming arenas in advance. Almost all these places and events are popular, and not booking in advance may cause you to lose the opportunity.
- Most of these attractions are crowded during the weekends and holidays. Try to plan your visit during the weekdays if you want to avoid the crowds.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing while visiting these places. You must also ensure that your clothing is modest. Make sure that your arms and shoulders remain covered.
- If you wear glasses, make sure to wear contact lenses while visiting these places, especially if you are visiting a place where you need to wear VR headsets.
- Arrive 15-20 minutes early, so you can gear up and listen to the safety instructions before you start your adventure.
- Always listen to the safety instructions and follow them carefully.
- Store your belongings in the lockers that are usually available at these locations.
Conclusion
Gaming arenas in Abu Dhabi have become quite trendy in recent years, and visiting them is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi. The reason is the unlimited fun and exciting challenges they offer. So, if you are into gaming, do try out some of the attractions mentioned here when you visit Abu Dhabi.
Frequently Asked Questions
