The stadium was opened in 1979[2] and was renovated in 2009, with many of the facilities and amenities upgraded to ensure that it complies with international standards and can be used for a wide range of events.

The stadium hosted the 1996 AFC Asian Cup including the final, where the United Arab Emirates lost against Saudi Arabia in penalty shoot-outs.

Initiated by then-UAE President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's desire, directions were issued to the Town Planning Department in 1974 to build a comprehensive sports complex of high international standards in Abu Dhabi.

The stadium included full size grass pitch surrounded facilities to host athletics competitions.

The building was designed to host international sporting events and provided media personnel with sufficient facilities to cover and broadcast tournaments via satellites.

Throughout the years, the stadium has undergone significant renovations to ensure that it can accommodate the high-quality international events it was designed for.

In preparation for the 2009 FIFA Club World Cup, architecture firm Populous led renovation works at the stadium, including brand new team locker rooms, wayfinding updates, refurbishments to the public facilities, updates to the Royal Box and installation of a new pitch lighting system.