What size bag can I take into Etihad Arena?

Up to 30 × 30 × 15 cm. Larger bags are refused at the door and there is no cloakroom, so anything bigger has to stay in your car.

Can I bring my own food and drink?

No. Outside food, drinks, alcohol and glass containers are not allowed. There are bars, restaurants and concessions inside the arena.

Can I take photos at the show?

Personal photos and short videos on a phone are generally fine. Professional cameras and recording equipment are not allowed without authorisation, and a few tours run as phone-free shows with sealed pouches.

Can children attend events at Etihad Arena?

Guests under 16 must be with an adult aged 21 or over, and individual events can set their own age limits — check the event page before buying tickets.

Can I leave and come back during the event?

No. A ticket grants a single entry, so plan to stay inside once you are through security.

Etihad Arena Rules: Bags, ID and What You Can Bring

Nothing spoils an evening faster than being turned away at the gate over a bag or a power bank. Etihad Arena’s rules are straightforward once you know them, so read this before you set off — ideally right after you buy tickets, while there is still time to repack.

Reviewed: 30 July 2026

Bag size limit

Bags are allowed up to 30 × 30 × 15 cm — roughly a small backpack or a handbag. Anything larger is not permitted inside, and the arena has no cloakroom, so there is nowhere to leave an oversized bag once you arrive. Travel light or leave it in the car.

What security will not let through

The prohibited list is long but logical. Grouped by why they are banned, the items to leave at home are:

Food and drink — outside food, drinks, alcohol and glass containers of any kind.
Electronics — laptops and tablets, power banks, drones, selfie sticks and tripods.
Recording gear — professional cameras and recording equipment, unless the organiser has authorised it.
Anything sharp or dangerous — knives, blades, scissors, tools, darts, stun guns, defence sprays, fireworks and any weapon or projectile.
Flammable or strongly scented — lighters and perfume.
Noisemakers and props — air horns, whistles, laser or optical illusion items.
Large flags, drapes and banners, and anything carrying offensive or inflammatory messaging.
Pets and animals of any kind.

Phones and personal photography are generally fine — it is the professional kit that is restricted. Some tours run as phone-free shows, where devices go into sealed pouches on entry; if that applies, the organiser announces it in advance.

ID, age and entry rules

Bring a valid photo ID. It can be requested at the gate along with your ticket.
Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or over.
Age limits vary by event, so check the event details before you buy tickets.
Alcohol is served only at designated outlets to guests aged 21 and over, with ID.
One ticket admits one person, and re-entry is not permitted — once you leave, that ticket is spent.

Inside the arena

Restaurants, bars and food concessions operate throughout the venue, which is why outside food and drink is not needed. Smoking is not allowed indoors, and that includes e-cigarettes and vapes; some events open designated outdoor areas.

Doors open at different times depending on the event, and latecomers are seated only at a suitable break in the show. Your event page carries the timing for that specific night.

Left something behind? Lost property is handled by Yas Concierge, and items are kept only for a limited period after the event, so ask early.