This month marks exactly 20 years since Xiaomi Arena (formerly Arena Riga) first opened its doors. Since 2006, the venue has hosted more than 2,500 events, welcoming a total of 9.4 million visitors! Over two decades, the arena has become a key destination for major sporting events and international tour concerts in Latvia.

The story began in 2004, when Riga required a modern venue to host the IIHF World Championship in ice hockey. An investment of €28.5 million and two years of construction resulted in a 58,000 m² arena with a capacity of 13,486 spectators. Already in its first month, the arena demonstrated its versatility – in February it hosted Raimonds Pauls’ “Singing Festival,” and in March the iconic band Depeche Mode took the stage.

From Global Superstars to Local Records

Over the years, the arena has welcomed some of the biggest names in the world of entertainment. Several artists have returned multiple times: Elton John and Kylie Minogue have performed here three times each, while Muse and Sting have taken the stage four times. The arena has also hosted globally significant figures, including His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.

Naturally, the most powerful energy comes from Latvia’s own artists. Prāta Vētra, Intars Busulis, Mesa, and Dons have performed here multiple times, while Bermudu Divstūris traditionally marks the beginning of the new school year with a concert at the arena.

Ģirts Krastiņš, Chairman of the Board of Xiaomi Arena:
“Welcoming world class stars is always a special occasion. However, the true energy of the arena shines brightest when the stands are filled with our own supporters. Whether it is hockey, basketball, or concerts by local musicians – it is a completely different level of power and unity. In those moments, it becomes clear that the arena is not just an event venue, but a true home for Latvian sport and culture.”

Sporting History and a New Chapter

The arena has consistently played a major role in hosting sporting events. It has hosted the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship three times, served as the home arena for Dinamo Riga, and welcomed numerous basketball tournaments, including the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 and the FIBA EuroBasket 2025, as well as the UEFA Futsal Euro 2026.

Partnerships

At the beginning of 2025, the arena underwent a visual transformation by signing its first-ever naming rights partnership and becoming Xiaomi Arena. This marks a new stage of development while maintaining the venue’s important position on the regional events map.

Interesting Fact

The three most attended concerts of the past three years:

1. Robbie Williams (XXV Tour)
2. OneRepublic (Escape to Europe 2025 Tour)
3. 50 Cent

With an average of 120–150 events per year, Xiaomi Arena continues to be one of the most in-demand venues in the region and is now preparing to welcome its 10 millionth visitor.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout these 20 wonderful years!