The experiential space combines an interactive experience centre, an official Manchester City Store, and a future themed restaurant concept
‘City Challenge’ will see visitors test their skills through interactive attractions and offer an experience that allows fans to feel closer to the Manchester City Football Club
Official Manchester City Store to feature Club merchandise and memorabilia
The destination combines sport and leisure, resulting in a fun and unique experience for all ages
Manchester City's groundbreaking "City Challenge" experience is set to debut at Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi. This innovative venue, developed in partnership with Aldar, will offer visitors a unique opportunity to test and enhance their football skills while engaging in City-themed challenges, providing a closer connection to the world-renowned Manchester City Football Club.
Scheduled to open on December 15, 2023, City Challenge will feature a diverse range of immersive and entertaining activities designed to challenge both the physical and mental skills of visitors. Incorporating cutting-edge technology, the attraction will provide participants with individual scores for various attributes as they enjoy the excitement of Yas Island's latest premier attraction.
Participants, both adults, and children will kick off their experience by creating a virtual companion avatar. They will then enter the game arena, assuming the roles of their favorite football heroes like Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Steph Houghton, or Alex Greenwood. This virtual journey will not only let them experience the atmosphere of the Etihad Stadium but also allow them to showcase their football abilities, including speed, reflexes, and agility, culminating in their scores being displayed on a dynamic leaderboard.
With over ten interactive challenges, including a thrilling penalty kick against City Challenge's robot goalkeeper, participants of all skill levels can enjoy the experience with friends and family. Notably, former Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero was the first to take on the goalkeeper during a preview visit in late November.
City Challenge will also showcase the club's football journey, highlighting significant achievements, historic kits dating back to 1884, and a celebration of their extensive trophy collection. As a Yas Mall destination, it promises to be an unforgettable experience synonymous with Manchester City's success, commemorating their historic treble-winning 2022-23 season.
A significant addition to the region is the official Manchester City Store, operated by PUMA, providing visitors with the chance to take home exclusive merchandise, kits, and memorabilia. The store, open since November 24, complements the overall experience and allows fans to bring home a special memento.
In the near future, City Challenge will also offer a dedicated space for fans to enjoy live Manchester City games and highlights, complete with food and beverage options for the ultimate matchday experience.
The launch of City Challenge strengthens Manchester City's partnership with Experience Abu Dhabi, the destination brand of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, solidifying Yas Island's position as a global leisure and entertainment destination.
Nuria Tarre, Chief Marketing and Fan Experience Officer at City Football Group, expressed delight in launching City Challenge at Yas Mall, emphasizing the unique and interactive experience for football enthusiasts and non-fans alike. Saoud Khoory, Chief Retail Officer at Aldar, highlighted the concept's importance in consolidating Yas Mall as a hub for innovation, entertainment, and experiential retail.
For more information about City Challenge, visit www.mancitychallenge.com.
