HOK has been selected to design the first-ever multi-purpose arena on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island – an 18,000-capacity sport and entertainment venue.

The flexible Yas Arena can be transformed from an 18,000-capacity venue to an intimate 500-seat theatre depending on the nature of the event it is hosting.

Sporting events, concerts, conventions and community gatherings are expected to take place at the arena.

As well as standard seating, the arena holds premium spaces, hospitality boxes and a VIP lounge that can be transformed into a grand ballroom.

HOK is working alongside Pascall+Watson on the project. The studio is also designing a retail park and dining destination adjacent to the arena.

“Our goal is to create an exceptional entertainment experience for fans and spectators,” said John Rhodes, a director of HOK’s sporting arm.

“Our team knew the building needed to be smart, adaptable and technologically-advanced in order to efficiently transform for the wide variety of events the client wished to host. This transformability will make Yas Arena one of the most sophisticated arenas in the world.”