The Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium (Arabic: ملعب زايد للكريكت) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates is one of the most iconic cricket grounds in the Middle East. Built at a cost of $23 million and opened in May 2004, the stadium has hosted numerous international matches, including Pakistan’s “home” fixtures after 2009, memorable India vs Pakistan charity matches, and several ICC tournaments.
With a seating capacity of 20,000, the Zayed Cricket Stadium Abu Dhabi is not only a cricketing hub but also a symbol of the UAE’s growing prominence in global sports. Whether you are a cricket fan planning to watch a match, or a stats lover curious about pitch conditions and scoring patterns, here’s everything you need to know about Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| Coordinates | 24°23′47″N 54°32′26″E |
| Established | 2004 |
| Capacity | 20,000 |
| Owner | Emirates Cricket Board |
| Tenants | UAE National Team, Afghanistan National Team, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, MI Emirates |
| End Names | North End & Pavilion End |
| First Test | 20–24 November 2010: Pakistan vs South Africa |
| First ODI | 18 April 2006: Pakistan vs India |
| First T20I | 10 February 2010: Afghanistan vs Scotland |
| Recent T20I | 11 September 2025: Bangladesh vs Hong Kong |
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi – International Fixtures
The stadium has witnessed many legendary matches. In April 2006, Pakistan and India played two charity matches here to raise funds for the survivors of the 2005 Pakistan earthquake. The series reportedly raised $10 million in relief aid.
After the 2009 Lahore attack on the Sri Lanka cricket team, Pakistan shifted many of its international home series to UAE grounds such as Dubai International Stadium and Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi. Top teams like Australia, England, South Africa, and Sri Lanka have all played here.
The ICC 2021 Men’s T20 World Cup also featured crucial matches at this venue, including group stage games and a semi-final. This further solidified the reputation of Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium Abu Dhabi as a world-class cricket venue.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Pitch Report – Batting or Bowling?
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch is considered balanced. It offers help to both pacers and spinners, making it a medium-scoring venue. Batting becomes easier once players settle in, but spinners often get grip under lights.
Main Points – Sheikh Zayed Stadium Pitch Report
- Nature: Balanced pitch
- Pace vs Spin: Pacers get early swing, spinners dominate middle overs
- Scoring trend: Moderate to high-scoring matches
- Sheikh Zayed Stadium average score in T20: Around 143 runs while batting first
For Hindi readers, here’s a quick line:
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi pitch report in Hindi – यह पिच संतुलित है जहाँ बल्लेबाज और गेंदबाज दोनों को मदद मिलती है, औसत स्कोर लगभग 140-160 रन रहता है।
So, whether you are looking for a Sheikh Zayed Stadium batting or bowling pitch, the answer is – both departments have equal opportunities depending on conditions.
ODI Statistics – Sheikh Zayed Stadium Records
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 53 |
| Batting First Won | 35 |
| Batting Second Won | 18 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 253 |
| Highest Score | South Africa 343/4 |
| Lowest Score | Afghanistan 63/10 |
Scoring Pattern
- Below 200: 3 times
- 200–249: 20 times
- 250–299: 26 times
- Above 300: 4 times
T20I Statistics – Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 67 |
| Batting First Won | 28 |
| Batting Second Won | 39 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 143 |
| Highest Score | Ireland 225/7 |
| Lowest Score | Nigeria 66/9 |
Scoring Pattern
- Below 150: 41 times
- 150–169: 14 times
- 170–189: 7 times
- Above 190: 5 times
T20 Domestic Records – Sheikh Zayed Stadium Stats
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 93 |
| Batting First Won | 43 |
| Batting Second Won | 50 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 163 |
| Highest Score | Islamabad United 247/2 |
| Lowest Score | Royal Challengers Bengaluru 70/10 |
Scoring Pattern
- Below 150: 27 times
- 150–169: 25 times
- 170–189: 25 times
- Above 190: 16 times
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Boundary Length
The boundary length at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium is around 65–70 meters, making it slightly bigger than many T20 grounds. This is why matches here often witness fewer sixes compared to smaller grounds.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Time Now
If you are planning to visit the stadium, always check the Sheikh Zayed Stadium time now according to UAE Standard Time (GST). The matches usually start late afternoon or evening due to weather conditions in Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Records & Memorable Matches
Some unforgettable moments at the Zayed Cricket Stadium Abu Dhabi include:
- India vs Pakistan charity series (2006)
- Pakistan vs Australia Test matches (2014 series whitewash)
- T20 World Cup 2021 semi-final thriller
- Recent Bangladesh vs Hong Kong T20I (September 2025)
These fixtures have made Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi an iconic destination for cricket fans worldwide.
Sheikh Zayed Stadium Location – Nearby Landmarks
The stadium is located close to Zayed International Airport (previously Abu Dhabi International Airport), making it easily accessible for international travelers.
If you’re coming from Dubai, you may pass by the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai, which connects major parts of the UAE. Popular landmarks near the stadium include Park Place Tower Sheikh Zayed Rd Trade Centre Trade Centre 1 Dubai United Arab Emirates and other business hubs.
FAQs on Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium
Q1. Where is Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium located?
It is located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, near Zayed International Airport.
Q2. What is the capacity of Sheikh Zayed Stadium Abu Dhabi?
The stadium can hold around 20,000 spectators.
Q3. Is Sheikh Zayed Stadium batting or bowling friendly?
It is a balanced pitch, helping both batters and bowlers depending on conditions.
Q4. What is the average score in T20 matches at Sheikh Zayed Stadium?
The average first innings score is around 143 runs.
Q5. Which teams use Zayed Cricket Stadium as their home ground?
UAE national team, Afghanistan national team, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, and MI Emirates.
Q6. What is the boundary length of Sheikh Zayed Stadium?
The boundary length is approximately 65–70 meters.
Q7. When was Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium established?
It was opened in 2004.
Q8. Which was the first ODI played at Sheikh Zayed Stadium?
The first ODI was played on 18 April 2006 between Pakistan and India.
Q9. Which recent T20I was played at Sheikh Zayed Stadium?
The latest was Bangladesh vs Hong Kong in September 2025.
Q10. How can I reach Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium Abu Dhabi?
It is easily accessible from Zayed International Airport and by road via Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai.
Conclusion
The Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium Abu Dhabi is more than just a cricket ground—it is a hub of international sports, history, and memories. From hosting charity matches to ICC tournaments, it has played a crucial role in UAE’s cricket journey.
Whether you’re analyzing Sheikh Zayed Stadium records, looking for a Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch report, or planning to attend a match near Zayed International Airport, this venue remains a top cricketing destination. With balanced pitches, thrilling contests, and world-class facilities, Zayed Cricket Stadium Abu Dhabi continues to be a jewel in the cricketing crown of the Middle East.
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