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Dakar Arena
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Landmark
The Dakar Arena in Diamniadio is an ultra-modern sporting and cultural complex officially opened on August 8, 2018. With a seating capacity of 15,000, it stands as one of the most advanced multi-purpose indoor venues on the African continent. The construction was completed in just eleven months at a cost of approximately $100 million, as part of a massive infrastructure drive to decongest the capital city. The arena is specifically designed for indoor sports such as basketball, volleyball, and tennis, while also meeting international standards for concerts and major cultural gatherings. Its futuristic architecture and world-class technical facilities make it a flagship project for the 'new' Senegal. Located about 30 kilometers from Dakar, it is easily accessible via the toll highway. Its opening marked a milestone for Senegalese sports, particularly for the successful national basketball team, which now possesses a home venue of international caliber.
- Location: Senegal
- Top sights: Diamniadio Olympic Stadium · Diamniadio
- Nearby: Rufisque (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 1 | 21 | 90 | 202 | 171 | 49 | 4 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Dakar Arena is a multi-purpose indoor venue accessible to the public during scheduled events. Outside event times, only the exterior can be viewed; the interior is closed to visitors.
Typical hours
The arena typically opens only during sports matches, concerts, or trade fairs. Exact times depend on the event schedule; ticket counters often open 1-2 hours before the start.
Photography
Indoor photography is usually allowed during events, but without flash. The modern exterior of the arena can be freely photographed at any time.
Time needed
A basketball game or concert typically lasts 2 to 3 hours. A quick exterior visit can be done in 15-20 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the arena visit with the African Renaissance Monument or the Les Mamelles lighthouse. The nearby Dakar beaches are great for cooling off.
Getting there
The arena is located in Diamniadio, about 30 km southeast of Dakar, reachable by taxi or car via the new highway. Public buses run regularly from Dakar to Diamniadio.
Insider tip
Purchase tickets in advance online, as popular events sell out quickly. Arrive early to avoid traffic jams on the highway and to secure a good parking spot.
Geography
Facts
- Opened on August 8, 2018
- Seating capacity of 15,000 people
- Construction took only 11 months
- Built for approximately $100 million
- Located in the new Diamniadio city
- Home venue for national basketball
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Dakar Arena (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the arena open to the public?
The arena is mostly open for events, visits outside these times are usually not possible.
What is the best way to get there?
The most comfortable way is by taxi or rental car from the city center.
Are there concerts there too?
Yes, it is a modern venue for sports events as well as large music concerts.
Is there parking available?
Yes, the arena has ample parking for visitors during events.
Is the arena air-conditioned?
Yes, the modern facility is fully air-conditioned, which is comfortable for events.
Dakar Arena: where is it located?
Dakar Arena is located in Senegal.
Dakar Arena: what is there to see?
Highlights include Diamniadio Olympic Stadium, Diamniadio.
Dakar Arena: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Dakar Arena: why is it worth visiting?
The Dakar Arena in Diamniadio is an ultra-modern sporting and cultural complex officially opened on August 8, 2018.
Explore with Plizio
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Nearby cities
Dakar
The vibrant capital of Senegal is located on the Cap-Vert peninsula and serves as the political and economic center of the country.
Pikine
The largest suburb of Dakar, which became one of the most densely populated zones due to rapid population growth.
Rufisque
A historic port city near Dakar that played a key role in the peanut export during the colonial era.
Somone
A peaceful resort town set by a beautiful lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary and relaxed beach-side bars.
History & landmarks
Abdoulaye Wade Stadium
An ultramodern sports stadium in Diamniadio, opened in 2022, seating up to 50,000 spectators.
Diamniadio Ministerial Spheres
A modern government complex in the new city of Diamniadio, housing several Senegalese ministries in futuristic buildings.
Memorial of the Martyrs of Thiaroye
A memorial commemorating the massacre of West African Tirailleurs by French forces in 1944 at Thiaroye.
Great Mosque of Guédiawaye
An impressive and architecturally significant mosque in Guédiawaye, one of the most densely populated suburbs of Dakar.
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Dakar City Hall
A notable colonial-era building in Dakar, serving as the seat of the municipal government.
National Grand Theatre
The Grand Théâtre National Doudou Ndiaye Rose in Dakar is one of the largest cultural centers in West Africa.
Museum of Black Civilisations
A major museum in Dakar dedicated to African art and cultural history worldwide.
Kermel Market
A historic market in downtown Dakar, housed in a striking round building from the colonial era.
Nature
More places
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Diamniadio Industrial Park
A special economic zone designed to attract investors and promote industrialization.
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Mbao forest area
An important forest belt near the capital Dakar.
Sendou Mineral Port
A new port being developed specifically for the export of bulk goods such as ores and minerals.
Sendou Power Plant
A controversial coal power plant project in Bargny/Sendou to secure baseload power.
Niayes Depression
A chain of depressions along the Atlantic coast, important for vegetable farming.
SOCOCIM Cement Factory
The SOCOCIM plant in Rufisque is one of the largest cement producers in West Africa.
Old Town of Rufisque
A port town that was once a major center for the peanut trade and has old warehouses.
Port of Rufisque
A historic port that was once the center of Senegalese peanut exports before Dakar gained importance.