Global Spectrum Heads To Abu Dhabi

In its first venture into the Middle East, Global Spectrum has been selected to manage the 43,000-seat Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, which is undergoing renovations in preparation for hosting the FIFA World Cup in December.

The Philadelphia-based venue management company will also provide consulting and guidance to the city of Abu Dhabi in hosting the premier soccer tournament.

The multiple-year management agreement includes Global Spectrum providing marketing, promotional support, booking and scheduling as well as staff training and day-to-day operations at the stadium, according to a statement.

Global Spectrum’s Patrick Talty will serve as general manager of the stadium and reside in Abu Dhabi.

“This is a truly wonderful opportunity for Global Spectrum as we expand into the Middle East and continue to grow as an international company,” company COO John Page said. The company already has a foothold in Singapore, where it manages the new Sports Hub that includes a 55,000-seat stadium.

Michael Sauers, senior VP of Global Spectrum parent company Comcast-Spectacor, said the company may use its subsidiary ticketing (New Era Tickets) and food services (Ovations) at the stadium.