Soft drinks manufacturer Coca-Cola has agreed a long-term deal to take on naming rights to the soon-to-open Dubai Arena.
Under the 10-year deal, the 17,000-seat facility will become the Coca-Cola Arena. The arena, which will be the largest indoor facility of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region, is due to open in June.
The Coca-Cola Arena will host a range of music gigs and indoor sporting events and has been billed a year-round destination for tourists. Coca-Cola has agreed the deal with arena operator AEG Ogden and Dubai-based landmark developer Meeras.
Meeras Group chairman, His Excellency Abdulla Al Habbai, said: “We are proud to have a company of such worldwide renown as Coca-Cola taking on the naming rights for the arena in the long-term. It is a testament to the unrivalled positioning of Dubai as a global tourism, leisure and entertainment hub.”
Guy Ngata, AEG Ogden’s chief executive of the Coca-Cola Arena, added: “This naming-rights agreement is hugely beneficial for Dubai and Coca-Cola, which are both internationally recognised brands in their own rights. We are excited to grow our partnership over the next decade and further establish Dubai as a major destination for world music tours, sporting competitions, family show and corporate events.
“In addition to major branding and exclusive beverage sales at the arena, the strategic partnership also means the new Coca-Cola Arena will be able to tap into Coca-Cola’s vast network of expertise in the worlds of business and entertainment, while the company will see huge gains from its close, long-term relationship with one of the best live entertainment arenas in the region.”
The Coca-Cola Arena has been designed with sustainability in mind, having been fitted with humidity capture air conditioning units, light and water sensors, LED lights and an organic composter.
Murat Ozgel, general manager of Coca-Cola Middle East and deputy president of Coca-Cola Middle East and North Africa, said: “We are proud to be a part of this highly anticipated entertainment destination which demonstrates our commitment to the region.
“The Coca-Cola Arena will build on Dubai’s thriving entertainment industry, positively contributing to the city’s ambitions to become a world-leading metropolis. The arena will create another iconic landmark in the city attracting visitors from across the world.
“In line with Dubai’s vision to create a smart and sustainable city, we are committed to making the Coca-Cola Arena a sustainable venue in line with our 2030 Environmental Goals.”
Image: AEG Ogden
