The iconic rock band Guns N’ Roses is set to electrify the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, as part of their global tour, Because What You Want & What You Get Are Two Completely Different Things. This performance marks a significant return to the UAE capital, promising fans an unforgettable evening filled with classic hits and high-octane performances. Rock lovers in the region are eagerly awaiting what promises to be one of the biggest musical events of the year.
Event Details and Venue Experience
Guns N’ Roses will perform at the state-of-the-art Etihad Arena, located on Yas Island, one of Abu Dhabi’s premier entertainment destinations. The show is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM, with doors opening at 6:00 PM. The concert is presented by Live Nation Middle East in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral, ensuring a world-class experience both on and off stage.
This show is part of a massive 30-date tour spanning Asia and Europe, with the Abu Dhabi stop being the centerpiece of their Middle East leg. Fans can expect an elaborate production setup, cutting-edge audio-visual effects, and of course, the raw energy that Guns N’ Roses is known for.
Ticket Categories and VIP Packages
Tickets are available through official platforms such as Etihad Arena and Ticketmaster.ae. A range of ticket options has been designed to suit varying preferences and budgets:
- Golden Circle Standing: AED 1,095
- Floor Standing: AED 545
- Lower Bowl Platinum: AED 985
- Lower Bowl Premium: AED 875
- Lower Bowl Plus: AED 765
- Lower Bowl Standard: AED 655
- Upper Bowl Premium: AED 435
- Upper Bowl Standard: AED 325
VIP experiences have also been tailored for fans seeking premium access. The VIP Lounge Package (AED 2,151) includes exclusive access to a pre-show party, high-quality merchandise, and priority seating. Other options include the VIP Premium Early Entry Package, VIP Premium Seated Package, and VIP Seated Package, each offering varying levels of perks such as early access, merchandise bundles, and souvenir laminates.
Etihad Arena also provides accessible seating options. Guests requiring special accommodations can contact the concierge team to make arrangements for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Expected Setlist and Fan Favorites
Though the exact setlist for Abu Dhabi hasn’t been revealed, the band’s recent concerts suggest fans will hear a powerful blend of hits from their legendary catalog. Signature tracks like “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” “Paradise City,” and “November Rain” are expected to dominate the night. Cover renditions of “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” and “Live and Let Die” have also been crowd-pleasers in previous performances.
The band’s ability to blend nostalgic hits with fresh renditions and powerful stage presence guarantees a memorable concert experience for fans of all ages.
The Tour’s Global Momentum
The current tour, which began on May 1, 2025, in Incheon, South Korea, is set to conclude on July 31, 2025, in Wacken, Germany. Titled Because What You Want & What You Get Are Two Completely Different Things, the tour marks a new chapter for Guns N’ Roses. It is the first with their new drummer Isaac Carpenter, following the departure of long-time member Frank Ferrer in March.
The tour has already made headlines for its sold-out shows, dynamic performances, and the return of the band’s trademark rock theatrics. With Abu Dhabi being a major stop, fans in the UAE are anticipating a full-throttle spectacle.
Legacy of Guns N’ Roses
Formed in 1985 in Los Angeles, Guns N’ Roses rose to stardom with the release of Appetite for Destruction in 1987, one of the most successful debut albums in rock history. The band has undergone several lineup changes over the decades but remains anchored by iconic frontman Axl Rose, legendary guitarist Slash, and bassist Duff McKagan.
Their music, known for its gritty vocals, complex guitar riffs, and rebellious spirit, has influenced generations of rock musicians and fans worldwide. From sold-out stadiums in the U.S. to massive festivals in Europe and Asia, Guns N’ Roses continues to reign as one of the most enduring rock bands of all time.
Why This Show Matters to UAE Fans
This concert is more than just a performance—it’s a cultural milestone. The return of such a high-profile rock band to Abu Dhabi reflects the growing appetite for diverse musical experiences in the UAE. It also demonstrates the country’s rising prominence as a global entertainment destination capable of attracting world-renowned acts.
Fans in the region have expressed excitement across social media platforms, with many planning to travel from neighboring emirates and even other GCC countries to catch the band live. Local radio stations and rock-themed events have already begun building hype around the performance.
Planning Your Visit to Yas Island
Etihad Arena is located at the heart of Yas Island, a destination that blends leisure, luxury, and adventure. Concertgoers can make the most of their visit by exploring nearby attractions such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.
The island also boasts a variety of hotels, from five-star resorts to budget-friendly options, making it convenient for fans coming from outside Abu Dhabi. Yas Marina’s vibrant dining scene and the shopping offerings at Yas Mall offer pre- and post-show experiences that extend the excitement beyond the concert itself.
Final Thoughts
Guns N’ Roses’ return to Abu Dhabi is more than a concert—it’s a celebration of music, legacy, and the enduring power of rock. With thousands expected to attend, the May 27 performance at Etihad Arena is shaping up to be one of the biggest musical events of 2025 in the UAE.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering their music for the first time, this is a night you won’t want to miss. Secure your tickets, plan your visit, and get ready to experience Guns N’ Roses like never before—live, loud, and legendary in Abu Dhabi.
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