UAE says stadium upgrades on track for FIFA Club World Cup

7 November 2017

Organisers of the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017 have announced that stadia upgrades and refurbishments are on track and ready to welcome the world’s best clubs next month.

Improvements are being made to both Zayed Sports City Stadium, Abu Dhabi, and Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain, for the tournament which takes place on December 6-16.

The FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017 will feature the world’s top club sides including CF Pachuca, Auckland City FC, Real Madrid and Al Jazira plus the winning teams of the CAF Champions League, AFC Champions League and the Copa Libertadores, state news agency WAM reported.

"The UAE has world-class stadiums and training facilities and we are very satisfied with the LOC preparations, to host the tournament this December," said Jamie Yarza, head of FIFA Events.

Each stadium has made infrastructural changes ahead of the December event, designed to enhance the fan experience and comply with FIFA regulations.

The Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, which won Stadium of the Year in 2014, has made major technological advancements and is now the only stadium in the UAE capable of broadcasting matches in 4k ultra High Definition.

Zayed Sports City, the largest football stadium in the UAE, underwent a major refurbishment ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 and has made some upgrades to the public facilities and VIP areas ahead of this year’s competition.

Aref Al Awani, tournament director of the local organising committee, said: "The FIFA inspections highlighted the impressive stadiums and training facilities we have here in the UAE. The investment in Zayed Sports City Stadium and Hazza bin Zayed Stadium has resulted in both being considered as leading sports venues in the region.

"We look forward to welcoming teams and fans this December for a world-class live sporting experience at the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017," he added.

 

Source:arabianbusiness.com