The destination combines sport and leisure, resulting in a fun and unique experience for all ages.
During a special VIP event, Manchester City Football Club and Aldar today officially opened City Challenge, the exciting, interactive experience at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi, marking a new chapter in fan experience and entertainment in the region.
Signifying another milestone in the strategic partnership between Manchester City and regional partners, Aldar, and Department of Culture – Abu Dhabi (DCT), the grand opening witnessed a star-studded event, with the club’s players and renowned figures in attendance.
Alongside Her Excellency Nouf Mohamed Al Boushelaibi, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing & Communications at DCT Abu Dhabi, Adel Albreiki, Chief Executive Officer at Aldar Projects, Saoud Khoory, Chief Retail Officer at Aldar, Ferran Soriano, Chief Executive Officer at City Football Group, and Nuria Tarré, Chief Marketing Officer at City Football Group, Manchester City midfielder and fan favourite, Kevin De Bruyne took part in a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the experience.
Promising an exhilarating adventure for people of all ages and interests, City Challenge offers a one-of-a-kind, thrilling journey into the heart of the iconic club’s storied legacy and electrifying gameplay. The immersive hub transcends the boundaries of a traditional fan experience, offering a unique blend of interactive challenges and cutting-edge technology.
City Challenge is not just about testing your footballing prowess, it’s about living the dream, replicating the on-field magic, and giving fans an opportunity to become the star player. From speed and agility drills to penalty shootouts against a robotic goalkeeper, the experience-based leisure destination is suitable for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned football enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and engaging experience.
While football is at the core of the experience, City Challenge extends its appeal beyond the pitch. The immersive journey celebrates the club’s legacy, showcasing iconic kits from 1884 to the present day and highlighting its impressive trophy haul.
No visit to City Challenge is complete without a trip to the official Manchester City Store, operated by PUMA. Here, fans can take home a piece of the magic, with the latest kits, shirts, official merchandise, and even personalized items.
Nuria Tarre, Chief Marketing and Fan Experience Officer at City Football Group, said at the official venue launch: “We are delighted to officially open our new interactive fan experience, City Challenge, today at Yas Mall. This unique venue offers a fantastic opportunity for adults and children across the UAE and the Middle East region to enjoy a truly exciting and engaging experience. Providing existing fans or those new to the club the chance to connect with Manchester City, we are proud to have collaborated on something fresh and distinct, and we hope everyone who visits will enjoy its incredible range of activities and experiences.”
Saoud Khoory, Chief Retail Officer at Aldar, echoed this sentiment stating: “Our retail vision at Aldar revolves around our customers, who visit our shopping destinations for far more than traditional retail only. This latest partnership with Manchester City at Yas Mall brings together leisure, entertainment, dining, and retail in one immersive space and will delight visitors of all ages. With Yas Island’s position as a global tourism hub, and Manchester City’s international fan base, we look forward to welcoming guests to experience City Challenge and the best of Yas Mall.”
Open daily from 10AM onwards, fans can visit City Challenge at Yas Mall and discover what it truly means to be a Cityzen. For more information, follow @mancitychallenge on social media.
