Tolerance Oval, located in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is part of the Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub and is a world-class cricket facility built for both international matches and elite-level training. The stadium is broadcast-ready and designed to meet ICC standards for Day/Night T20I and ODI matches.
Key infrastructure includes:
- Grass embankments seating 12,000 spectators
- Nine new clay wickets, five suitable for televised matches
- Practice nets with floodlights for night training
- Fully-equipped media center, commentary boxes, and player facilities
- Modern drainage system for quick outfield recovery
- High-quality sub-surface preparation for consistent pitch behavior
The Oval serves as a training hub for IPL, PSL, Abu Dhabi T10, County Cricket, and national teams including UAE men’s and women’s squads, England, and Afghanistan.
📍 Location & Accessibility
- City: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Region: Part of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub, near Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium
- Distance from City Center: ~30 minutes drive
- Accessibility: Roads, shuttle services, and nearby parking; spectator-friendly entry and exit points
🏏 Cricket History & Significance
- 2019: Hosted ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier matches
- 2021: Awaited ICC accreditation for T20 World Cup matches
- 2022: Achieved ICC accreditation for Day/Night T20I and ODI matches
- 2024: Hosted a Test match: Ireland vs Afghanistan, becoming the 122nd Test venue in the world
- Training & warm-up matches for franchise leagues including IPL, PSL, and Abu Dhabi T10
Significance:
- First ICC-accredited dual oval venue in the world (two international-quality ovals within one facility)
- Recognized as a state-of-the-art cricket training hub in the UAE
- Venue reflects UAE values of “Tolerance”, symbolizing inclusivity and cultural harmony
🌟 Key Highlights & Facilities
- Capacity: 12,000 spectators
- ICC-accredited Day/Night T20I and ODI stadium
- Nine clay wickets with five suitable for TV broadcast
- High-quality practice nets and indoor-outdoor training facilities
- Fully broadcast-ready with commentary boxes and media center
- Modern drainage and irrigation systems
- Can host franchise league matches and international series
Pitch & Outfield Conditions
- Clay wickets: Consistent bounce, suitable for both spin and pace
- Day/Night matches: Floodlit wickets designed to maintain visibility and performance
- Outfield: Lush, level, and fast with quick drainage
- Practice Pitches: Multiple wickets allow simultaneous practice for different teams
- Training Facilities: Nets, indoor practice with Hawk-Eye and bowling machines
Famous Matches & Tournaments
- 2019 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier
- 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup warm-up matches (6 matches hosted)
- 2024 Test: Ireland vs Afghanistan
- Regular training & exhibition matches for IPL, PSL, Abu Dhabi T10
Fan & Player Experience
- Player Experience: High-quality wickets, modern practice facilities, broadcast-standard pitches
- Fan Experience: Grass embankments allow a scenic, close-to-action viewing experience
- Accessibility: Easy for teams and spectators, with nearby transport and parking
- Legacy: Strengthens UAE’s reputation as a global cricket hub, complementing Zayed Cricket Stadium, Dubai International Stadium, and Sharjah Cricket Stadium
