View source for Emirates Stadium

{{short description|Football stadium in Holloway, London, England}}
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{{Use British English|date=January 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2016}}
{{Infobox venue
| name = Emirates Stadium
| nickname = Ashburton Grove
| logo_image = [[File:Emirates Stadium logo.svg|150px]]
| image = [[File:London Emirates Stadium arsenal.jpg|250px]]
| caption = '''[[UEFA Elite stadium|UEFA]]''' {{rating|4|4}}
| owner = [[Kroenke Sports & Entertainment]]
| broke_ground = February 2004
| opened = 22 July 2006
| address = Hornsey Road
| location = London, England<br>[[Postcodes in the United Kingdom|N7 7AJ]]
| coordinates = {{Coord|51|33|24|N|0|6|22|W|type:landmark_scale:3000_region:GB|display=it}}
| surface = [[GrassMaster]]
| dimensions = {{convert|105|x|68|m|yd|1}}
| architect = [[Populous (company)|HOK Sport (Populous since 2009)]]<!-- For clarity: The Company HOK Sport that designed Emirates Stadium was part of a management buyout and renamed POPULOUS. HOK Group has subsequently restarted a division named HOK Sports + Recreation + Entertainment - This group has no involvement with the Emirates stadium. Despite that, we ONLY want the name that Populous was known as at the time of Emirates Stadium's construction and opening, so please do not remove "HOK Sport" from this article again. --><ref>{{cite web |url= http://portfolio.populous.com/projects/emirates.html |title= Emirates Stadium |access-date= 19 February 2012 |publisher= Populous |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110808014520/http://portfolio.populous.com/projects/emirates.html |archive-date= 8 August 2011 |url-status= dead }}</ref>
| structural engineer = [[Buro Happold|BuroHappold]]
| services engineer = BuroHappold
| general_contractor = [[Sir Robert McAlpine]]
| construction_cost = [[Pound sterling|£]]390 million (2004)<ref name="FAQs">{{cite web |title=Stadium FAQs|url=http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/emirates-stadium-history/frequently-asked-questions|publisher=Arsenal F.C |access-date=1 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160701120826/http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/emirates-stadium-history/frequently-asked-questions|archive-date=1 July 2016|date=24 July 2008}}</ref>
| capacity = 60,704<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.premierleague.com/clubs/1/Arsenal/stadium|title=Emirates Stadium Arsenal FC, Info & Map|website=Premierleague.com|access-date=11 November 2021}}</ref>
| suites = 152
| record_attendance = 60,383 (Arsenal vs [[Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C.|Wolverhampton Wanderers]], 2 November 2019)
| tenants = [[Arsenal F.C.|Arsenal]] (2006–present)<br/>[[Arsenal W.F.C.|Arsenal Women]] (2024–present)
}}

The '''Emirates Stadium''' (known as '''Arsenal Stadium''' for [[UEFA]] competitions) is a [[association football|football]] stadium in [[Holloway, London|Holloway]], London, England. It has been the home stadium of [[Arsenal F.C.|Arsenal Football Club]] since its completion in 2006. [[Arsenal W.F.C.|Arsenal]]'s women's team made the stadium their home in 2024. It has a current seated capacity of 60,704, making it one of the [[List of football stadiums in England|largest football stadiums in England by capacity]].

In 1997, Arsenal explored the possibility of relocating to a new stadium, having been denied planning permission by [[Islington Council]] to expand its home stadium, [[Arsenal Stadium|Highbury]]. After considering various options (including purchasing Wembley Stadium), the club bought an industrial and waste disposal estate in Ashburton Grove in 2000. A year later, they received the council's approval to build a stadium on the site; manager [[Arsène Wenger]] described this as the "biggest decision in Arsenal's history" since the board appointed [[Herbert Chapman]] in the 1920s.{{sfn|Spurling|p=85}} Relocation plans began in 2002, but financial difficulties delayed work until 2004. [[Emirates (airline)|Emirates]] was later announced as the main sponsor for the stadium. The entire stadium project was completed in 2006 at a cost of £390&nbsp;million. The club's former stadium was redeveloped as [[Highbury Square]], an apartment complex.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Media Group|first1=Arsenal|title=Arsenal celebrates Highbury Square opening|url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-celebrates-highbury-square-opening|publisher=Arsenal F.C |access-date=7 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160707123358/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-celebrates-highbury-square-opening|archive-date=7 July 2016|date=24 September 2009}}</ref>

The quality of Arsenal's pitch and [[Groundskeeping|groundsmanship]] have been recognised internationally and lead to it being nicknamed "the Carpet" by matchgoing fans and the wider sports media.  Since 2009, the stadium has undergone a process of "Arsenalisation" with an aim of restoring visible links to Arsenal's history. The stadium hosts international football fixtures (including often acting as a de facto ground of the [[Brazil national football team|Brazil national team]] in Europe), as well as hosting international music acts on a regular basis.

==History==
===Background===
[[File:Wembley Twin Towers - geograph.org.uk - 258671.jpg|thumb|right|upright|[[Wembley Stadium (1923)|Wembley Stadium]] was one of the sites Arsenal considered relocating to.|alt=A white tower facing parallel to an identical tower.]]

Spectator safety at football grounds was a major concern during the 1980s, following incidents of [[Football hooliganism in the United Kingdom|hooliganism]], and disasters such as the [[Bradford City stadium fire]] and the [[Heysel Stadium disaster]] in 1985, and the [[Hillsborough disaster]] in 1989. The [[Taylor Report]] into the Hillsborough tragedy was finalised in January 1990 and recommended the removal of terraces (standing areas) in favour of seating.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/other-clubs/hillsborough_how_taylor_ensured_there_would_never_be_a_repeat_1_2342256 |title=Hillsborough: How Taylor ensured there would never be a repeat |newspaper=Yorkshire Post |location=Leeds |date=13 April 2009 |access-date=17 February 2012 |archive-date=22 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222065930/http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/other-clubs/hillsborough_how_taylor_ensured_there_would_never_be_a_repeat_1_2342256 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Under the amended [[Football Spectators Act 1989]], it became compulsory for first and second tier English clubs to have their stadia all-seated in time for the [[1994–95 in English football|1994–95]] season.<ref>{{cite web |first1=John |last1=Woodhouse |first2=Jack |last2=Dent |url=http://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/SN03937/SN03937.pdf |title=Standing at football matches |publisher=Parliament of the United Kingdom |date=9 June 2017 |access-date=18 October 2017 |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020033822/http://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/SN03937/SN03937.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Arsenal F.C.|Arsenal]], like many other clubs, experienced difficulty raising income for converted terraced areas.{{sfn|Brown|p=54}} At the end of the [[1990–91 Arsenal F.C. season|1990–91]] season, the club introduced a bond scheme which offered supporters the right to purchase a season ticket at its renovated North Bank stand of [[Arsenal Stadium|Highbury]].{{sfn|Brown|p=54}} The board felt this was the only viable option after considering other proposals; they did not want to compromise on traditions nor curb manager [[George Graham (footballer, born 1944)|George Graham]]'s transfer dealings.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bonds issue will fund Arsenal's £20m upgrading |first=Jonathan |last=Prynn |page=40 |newspaper=The Times |location=London |date=11 May 1991}}</ref> At a price of between [[Pound sterling|£]]1,000 to £1,500, the 150-year bond was criticised by supporters, who argued it potentially blocked the participation of those less well-off from supporting Arsenal.{{sfn|Brown|p=55}} A campaign directed by the Independent Arsenal Supporters' Association brought relative success as only a third of all bonds were sold.{{sfn|Brown|p=57}}

The North Bank was the final stand to be refurbished. It opened in August 1993 at a cost of £20&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/news/architecture-a-grand-stand-for-football-at-arsenal-new-safety-standards-and-innovative-design-are-being-used-to-turn-the-game-into-family-entertainment-callum-murray-applauds-1460432.html |title=A grand stand for football |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |last=Murray |first=Callum |date=11 August 1993 |access-date=17 February 2012 |archive-date=26 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140926220510/http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/art/news/architecture-a-grand-stand-for-football-at-arsenal-new-safety-standards-and-innovative-design-are-being-used-to-turn-the-game-into-family-entertainment-callum-murray-applauds-1460432.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The rework significantly reduced the stadium's capacity, from 57,000 at the beginning of the decade to under 40,000.{{sfn|Glinert|p=105}} High ticket prices to serve the club's existing debts and low attendance figures forced Arsenal to explore the possibility of building a larger stadium in 1997. The club wanted to attract an evergrowing fanbase and financially compete with the biggest clubs in England.{{sfn|Glinert|p=105}}<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/arsenal-consider-leaving-hallowed-marble-halls-1246012.html |title=Arsenal consider leaving hallowed marble halls |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |last=Garner |first=Clare |date=18 August 1997 |access-date=4 March 2012 |archive-date=31 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120131180450/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/arsenal-consider-leaving-hallowed-marble-halls-1246012.html |url-status=live }}</ref> By comparison, [[Manchester United F.C.|Manchester United]] enjoyed a rise in gate receipts; the club went from £43.9&nbsp;million in 1994 to £87.9&nbsp;million in 1997  because of [[Old Trafford]]'s expansion.{{sfn|Bernstein|p=214}}

Arsenal's initial proposal to rebuild Highbury was met with disapproval from local residents, as it required the demolition of 25 neighbouring houses.{{sfn|Conn|p=66}} It later became problematic once the East Stand of the stadium was granted [[Listed building (United Kingdom)#Examples of Grade II listed buildings|Grade II]] listing in July 1997.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/arsenals-marble-halls-are-saved-for-posterity-1251179.html |title=Arsenal's marble halls are saved for posterity |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |last=Jury |first=Louise |date=18 July 1997 |access-date=18 February 2012 |archive-date=19 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119104323/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/arsenals-marble-halls-are-saved-for-posterity-1251179.html |url-status=live }}</ref> After much consultation, the club abandoned its plan, deciding a capacity of 48,000 was not large enough.{{sfn|Conn|p=67}} Arsenal then investigated the possibility of relocating to [[Wembley Stadium (1923)|Wembley Stadium]] and in March 1998 made an official bid to purchase the ground.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/football/48799.stm |title=Gunners aim for the twin towers |work=BBC News |date=19 January 1998 |access-date=18 February 2012 |archive-date=14 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190614065405/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/sport/football/48799.stm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="wembid">{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/football/64881.stm |title=Arsenal offer to buy Wembley |work=BBC News |date=12 March 1998 |access-date=18 February 2012 |archive-date=14 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190614065405/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/sport/football/64881.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> [[The Football Association]] (FA) and the English National Stadium Trust opposed Arsenal's offer, claiming it harmed England's bid for the [[2006 FIFA World Cup]], which [[FIFA]] itself denied.<ref name="wembid"/> In April 1998, Arsenal withdrew its bid and Wembley was purchased by the English National Stadium Trust.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/73086.stm |title=Wembley Stadium sold to highest bidder |work=BBC News |date=2 April 1998 |access-date=18 October 2017 |archive-date=3 December 2002 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021203090842/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/73086.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> The club however was given permission to host its [[UEFA Champions League]] home ties at Wembley for the [[1998–99 UEFA Champions League|1998–99]] and [[1999–2000 UEFA Champions League|1999–2000]] seasons.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/football/138932.stm |title=Arsenal get Wembley go-ahead |work=BBC News |date=24 July 1998 |access-date=18 October 2017 |archive-date=12 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112214641/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/football/138932.stm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Arsenal home on new test |first=Russell |last=Kempson |page=62 |newspaper=The Times |date=25 November 1999}}</ref> Although Arsenal's time in the competition was brief, twice exiting the group stages, the club set its record home attendance (73,707 against [[RC Lens|Lens]]) and earned record gate income in the 1998–99 season, highlighting potential profitability.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football-gunners-cash-in-at-the-gate-1180077.html |title=Gunners cash in at the gate |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |date=22 October 1998 |access-date=18 October 2017 |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020033738/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football-gunners-cash-in-at-the-gate-1180077.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Site selection and development proposals===
In November 1999, Arsenal examined the feasibility of building a new stadium in Ashburton Grove.{{sfn|Conn|p=67}} Anthony Spencer, estate agent and club property adviser, recommended the area to director [[Danny Fiszman]] and vice-chairman [[David Dein]] having scoured over North London for potential areas.{{sfn|Conn|p=67}}<ref name="landw">{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2000/nov/12/theobserver.observerbusiness5 | title=Rocky road to new Wembley | newspaper=The Observer | first1=Denis | last1=Campbell | first2=Nick | last2=Mathiason | location=London | date=12 November 2000 | access-date=19 February 2012 | archive-date=8 May 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508234639/http://www.theguardian.com/business/2000/nov/12/theobserver.observerbusiness5 | url-status=live }}</ref> The land, {{convert|450|m|yds}} from Highbury was composed of a rubbish processing plant and industrial estate, 80% owned to varying levels by [[Islington London Borough Council|Islington Council]], [[Railtrack]] and [[Sainsbury's]].<ref name="landw"/> After passing the first significant milestone at Islington Council's planning committee, Arsenal submitted a planning application for a new-build 60,000 seater stadium in November 2000.{{sfn|Conn|p=67}}{{sfn|Spurling|p=86}} This included a redevelopment project at Drayton Park, converting the existing ground Highbury to flats and building a new waste station in Lough Road.{{sfn|Conn|p=67}} As part of the scheme, Arsenal intended to create 1,800 new jobs for the community and 2,300 new homes.{{sfn|Glinert|p=106}}<ref name="Evening">{{cite news|url=http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/article-1003087-winners-and-losers-in-400m-plan.do |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130505073959/http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/article-1003087-winners-and-losers-in-400m-plan.do |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 May 2013 |title=Winners and losers in £400m plan |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=11 December 2001 |access-date=19 February 2012 }}</ref> Improvements to three railway stations, [[Holloway Road tube station|Holloway Road]], [[Drayton Park railway station|Drayton Park]] and [[Finsbury Park station|Finsbury Park]], were included to cope with the increased capacity requirements from matchday crowds.<ref name="Evening"/>
[[File:Acquired for Arsenal Stadium development.jpg|thumb|left|200px|A board displaying the acquisition of the Ashburton Grove site for the stadium development|alt=]]
Islington Stadium Communities Alliance (ISCA) – an alliance of 16 groups representing local residents and businesses, was set up in January 2000 as a body against the redevelopment.<ref>{{cite news |title=Residents' opposition group call for public inquiry |first=David |last=Bond |page=91 |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=7 November 2000}}</ref> Alison Carmichael, a spokeswoman for the group, said of the move, "It may look like Arsenal are doing great things for the area, but in its detail the plan is awful. We blame the council; the football club just wants to expand to make more money."{{sfn|Conn|p=68}} Tom Lamb, an ISCA member, was concerned about as air pollution and growing traffic, adding "that is a consequence which most Arsenal fans would never see, because they are in Islington only for about thirty days a year."{{sfn|Spurling|p=86}}

Seven months after the planning application was submitted, a poll showed that 75% of respondents (2,133 residents) were against the scheme.{{sfn|Conn|p=68}} By October 2001, the club asserted that a poll of Islington residents found that 70% were in favour,<ref>{{cite news |last=Wallace |first=Sam |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3014070/Pressure-group-threaten-public-inquiry-into-Arsenal-proposals-for-new-stadium.html |title=Pressure group threaten public inquiry into Arsenal proposals for new stadium |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=4 October 2001 |access-date=21 February 2012 |archive-date=30 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330051450/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3014070/Pressure-group-threaten-public-inquiry-into-Arsenal-proposals-for-new-stadium.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and received the backing from the then [[Mayor of London]], [[Ken Livingstone]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/1595565.stm |title=Mayor backs Arsenal plan |publisher=BBC Sport |date=12 October 2001 |access-date=8 August 2014 |archive-date=7 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107081059/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/1595565.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> The club launched a campaign to aid the project in the run up to Christmas and planted the slogan "Let Arsenal support Islington" on advertising hoardings and in the backdrop of manager [[Arsène Wenger]]'s press conferences.<ref>{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Alan |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3018115/Highbury-provides-a-fitting-backdrop.html |title=Highbury provides a fitting backdrop |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=4 December 2001 |access-date=21 February 2012 |archive-date=30 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330042257/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3018115/Highbury-provides-a-fitting-backdrop.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3018222/Islington-battle-for-Arsenal.html |title=Islington battle for Arsenal |first=Richard |last=Clarke |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=6 December 2001 |access-date=21 February 2012 |archive-date=30 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330042303/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3018222/Islington-battle-for-Arsenal.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/dec/09/sport.comment1 |title=Arsenal united as United regroup |first=Amy |last=Lawrence |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |date=6 December 2001 |access-date=21 February 2012 |archive-date=28 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228203048/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2001/dec/09/sport.comment1 |url-status=live }}</ref>
[[File:Emirates Stadium (Aerial).jpg|thumb|The Ashburton Grove site in North London, with the completed Emirates Stadium. Arsenal's former home Highbury Stadium can be seen north-east of the newer stadium.]]
Islington Council approved Arsenal's planning application on 10 December 2001, voting in favour of the Ashburton Grove development.<ref name="Ambitious">{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3018531/Ambitious-Arsenal-home-in-on-dream.html |title=Ambitious Arsenal home in on dream |first=Paul |last=Hayward |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=11 December 2001 |access-date=21 February 2012 |archive-date=30 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330051456/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/3018531/Ambitious-Arsenal-home-in-on-dream.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The council also consented to the transfer of the existing waste recycling plant in Ashburton Grove to Lough Road.<ref name="Ambitious"/> Livingstone approved the plans a month later,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/livingstone-approves-arsenal-stadium-9130132.html |title=Livingstone approves Arsenal stadium |first=Alan |last=Nixon |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |date=10 January 2002 |access-date=27 December 2016 |archive-date=28 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228124623/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/news-and-comment/livingstone-approves-arsenal-stadium-9130132.html |url-status=live }}</ref> and it was then motioned to [[Secretary of State for Transport|then-Transport Secretary]] [[Stephen Byers]], who initially delayed making a final decision. He had considered whether to refer the scheme to a public inquiry, but eventually decided not to.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/1831366.stm |title=Arsenal's stadium boost |publisher=BBC Sport |location=London |date=20 February 2002 |access-date=27 December 2016 |archive-date=13 December 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031213123923/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/1831366.stm |url-status=live }}</ref>{{sfn|Glinert|p=107}} Planning permission was granted by Islington Council in May 2002,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/legal-challenge-to-new-arsenal-stadium-7085178.html |title=Legal challenge to new Arsenal stadium |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=15 December 2004 |access-date=19 October 2017 |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020034027/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/legal-challenge-to-new-arsenal-stadium-7085178.html |url-status=live }}</ref> but local residents and ISCA launched a late challenge to the High Court, arguing the plans were against the law.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/arsenal-get-stadium-green-light-6316924.html |title=Arsenal get stadium green light |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=31 July 2002 |access-date=19 October 2017 |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020032432/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/arsenal-get-stadium-green-light-6316924.html |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Duncan Ouseley]] dismissed the case in July 2002, paving the way for Arsenal to start work.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/jul/31/newsstory.sport7 | title=Arsenal given Ashburton Grove all clear | newspaper=The Guardian | location=London | date=31 July 2002 | access-date=21 February 2012 | archive-date=28 February 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228213403/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/jul/31/newsstory.sport7 | url-status=live }}</ref>

The club succeeded in a further legal challenge bought by small firms in January 2005 as the High Court upheld a decision by then-Deputy Prime Minister [[John Prescott]] to grant a compulsory purchase order in support of the scheme.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/4183807.stm |title=Firms lose Arsenal stadium fight |work=BBC News |date=18 January 2005 |access-date=21 February 2012 |archive-date=27 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127155831/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/4183807.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> The stadium later became issue in the local elections in May 2006. The [[Metropolitan Police]] restricted supporters' coaches to being parked in the nearby Sobel Sports Centre rather than in the underground stadium car park, and restricted access to 14 streets on match days. These police restrictions were conditions of the stadiums' [[health and safety]] certificate which the stadium requires to operate and open. The road closures were passed at a council meeting in July 2005.<ref>{{cite news|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061210142537/http://www.premierleague.com/fapl.rac?command=forwardOnly&nextPage=enSeasons|url=http://www.islingtongazette.co.uk/content/islington/gazette/news/story.aspx?brand=ISLGOnline&category=news&tBrand=northlondon24&tCategory=newsislg&itemid=WeED05%20Jul%202006%2016%3A00%3A13%3A093 |title=Residents lose fight to keep streets open |newspaper=[[Islington Gazette]] |date=5 July 2006 | archive-date=10 December 2006 |access-date=21 February 2012 }}</ref>

===Finance and naming===
Securing finance for the stadium project proved a challenge as Arsenal received no [[Subsidy|public subsidy]] from the government. Whereas Wenger claimed French clubs "pay nothing at all for their stadium, nothing at all for their maintenance", and "[[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]] paid one euro for [[Allianz Arena|their ground]]", Arsenal were required to buy the site outright in one of London's most expensive areas.<ref>{{cite news |first=Nick |last=Ames |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/feb/12/arsene-wenger-arsenal-fans-boycott-leicester |title=Arsène Wenger advises Arsenal and Leicester fans to drop boycott |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=12 February 2016 |access-date=19 October 2017 |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020032709/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/feb/12/arsene-wenger-arsenal-fans-boycott-leicester |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="benge">{{cite news |first=James |last=Benge |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsene-wenger-arsenals-move-to-the-emirates-stadium-was-the-most-difficult-period-in-my-life-a3549976.html |title=Arsene Wenger: Arsenal's move to the Emirates Stadium was the most difficult period in my life |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=26 May 2017 |access-date=19 October 2017 |quote=At the time it was £4,000 a seat. You multiply that by 60,000 it's £240million. Plus we had to buy the soil, all the businesses we had to buy out. It went to over £420m. |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020033955/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsene-wenger-arsenals-move-to-the-emirates-stadium-was-the-most-difficult-period-in-my-life-a3549976.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The club therefore sought other ways of generating income, such as making a profit on player trading. Arsenal recouped over £50&nbsp;million from transfers involving [[Nicolas Anelka]] to [[Real Madrid C.F.|Real Madrid]], and [[Marc Overmars]] and [[Emmanuel Petit]] to [[FC Barcelona|Barcelona]].{{sfn|Conn|p=59}} The transfer of Anelka partly funded the club's new [[Arsenal Training Centre|training ground]], in [[London Colney]], which opened in October 1999.<ref>{{cite news |first=James |last=Benge |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsenal-legend-ray-parlour-every-day-was-a-pleasure-under-arsene-wenger-a3354426.html |title=Arsenal legend Ray Parlour: Every day was a pleasure under Arsene Wenger |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=30 September 2016 |access-date=18 August 2021 |archive-date=18 August 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818113201/https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsenal-legend-ray-parlour-every-day-was-a-pleasure-under-arsene-wenger-a3354426.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[File:Arsenal Stadium interior North Bank.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Arsenal organised another bond scheme in order to generate funds for the new stadium and redevelopment of Highbury.]]
The club also agreed new sponsorship deals. In September 2000, [[Granada Media Group]] purchased a 5% stake in Arsenal for £47&nbsp;million.<ref name="Guardian">{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2000/sep/08/media |title=Media kick-off Granada grabs stake in the Gunners |first=David |last=Teather |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=8 September 2000 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=8 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140508233302/http://www.theguardian.com/business/2000/sep/08/media |url-status=live }}</ref> As part of the acquisition, Granada became the premier media agent for Arsenal, handling advertising, sponsorship, merchandising, publishing and licensing agreements.<ref name="Guardian"/> The club's managing director [[Keith Edelman]] confirmed in a statement that the investment would be used directly to fund for the new stadium.<ref name="Guardian"/> The collapse of [[ITV Digital]] (part-owned by Granada) in April 2002 coincided with news that the company was tied in to pay £30&nbsp;million once arrangements for the new stadium were finalised.{{sfn|Conn|p=69}}<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/article-352256-30m-wait-for-arsenal.do |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120912155832/http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/sport/article-352256-30m-wait-for-arsenal.do |url-status=dead |archive-date=12 September 2012 |title=£30m wait for Arsenal |newspaper=London Evening Standard |first=David |last=Bond |date=4 April 2002 |access-date=24 February 2012 }}</ref>

In September 2002, Arsenal formulated plans to reduce its players' wage bill after making a pre-tax loss of £22.3&nbsp;million for the 2001–02 financial year.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/sep/03/newsstory.sport2 |title=Arsenal to cut wages after £22m loss |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=3 September 2002 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=4 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140304203804/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/sep/03/newsstory.sport2 |url-status=live }}</ref> The club appointed [[N M Rothschild & Sons]] to examine its financial situation and advise whether it was feasible for construction to press ahead at the end of March 2003.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2394581/North-London-united.html |title=North London united |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |first=Simon |last=Hart |date=19 January 2003 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=24 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324182504/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2394581/North-London-united.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Although Arsenal secured a £260&nbsp;million loan from a group of banks led by the [[Royal Bank of Scotland]], the club suspended work on Ashburton Grove in April 2003, saying, "We have experienced a number of delays in arrangements for our new stadium project in recent months across a range of issues. The impact of these delays is that we will now be unable to deliver a stadium opening for the start of the 2005–06 season."{{sfn|Conn|p=69}}<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2003/apr/16/newsstory.sport9 |title=Gunners new stadium delayed |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=16 April 2003 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=4 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140304203835/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2003/apr/16/newsstory.sport9 |url-status=live }}</ref> The cost of building the stadium, forecasted at £400&nbsp;million, had risen by £100&nbsp;million during that period.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/oct/22/newsstory.sport6?INTCMP=SRCH |title=Cost of Gunners' stadium shoots up |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |date=22 October 2002 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=28 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228212640/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2002/oct/22/newsstory.sport6?INTCMP=SRCH |url-status=live }}</ref>

Throughout the summer of 2003, Arsenal gave fans the opportunity to register their interest in a relaunched bond scheme.<ref name="Tele">{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2401005/Arsenal-ask-fans-to-dig-deep.html |title=Arsenal ask fans to dig deep |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |first=Mihir |last=Bose |date=6 May 2003 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=24 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324185525/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2401005/Arsenal-ask-fans-to-dig-deep.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The club planned to issue 3,000 bonds for between £3,500 and £5,000 each for a season ticket at Highbury, then at Ashburton Grove.{{sfn|Conn|p=69}} Supporters reacted negatively to the news; AISA chairman Steven Powell said in a statement: "We are disappointed that the club has not consulted supporters before announcing a new bond scheme."<ref>{{cite news |title=Arsenal fans give bond plan cold reception |first=Raoul |last=Simons |page=70 |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=7 May 2003}}</ref> Though Arsenal never stated how many bonds were sold, they did raise several million pounds through the scheme.{{sfn|Conn|p=69}} The club also extended its contract with sportswear provider [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]], in a deal worth  £55&nbsp;million over seven years.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3135523.stm |title=Arsenal sign new kit deal |publisher=BBC Sport |date=8 August 2003 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=6 January 2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040106093030/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3135523.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> Nike paid a minimum of £1&nbsp;million each year as a [[royalty payment]], contingent on sales.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2409492/Arsenal-shirt-deal-falls-short-of-new-ground-costs.html |title=Arsenal shirt deal falls short of new ground costs |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Mihir |last=Bose |date=14 August 2003 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=11 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090911032437/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/2409492/Arsenal-shirt-deal-falls-short-of-new-ground-costs.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

Funding for the stadium was secured in February 2004.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/arsenal-confirms-funding-for-stadium-project |title=Arsenal confirms funding for Stadium project |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=23 February 2004 |access-date=24 February 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217040724/http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/arsenal-confirms-funding-for-stadium-project |archive-date=17 February 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/business-43113951|title=Arsenal and Emirates extend shirt deal|first=Bill|last=Wilson|work=BBC News |date=19 February 2018|access-date=14 January 2020|archive-date=6 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190806200921/https://www.bbc.com/news/business-43113951|url-status=live}}</ref> Later in the year [[Emirates (airline)|Emirates]] bought [[naming rights]] for the stadium, in a 15-year deal estimated at £100&nbsp;million that also included a 7-year shirt sponsorship, starting in the 2006–07 season.<ref name="emiratesdeal">{{cite news | url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3715678.stm | title=Arsenal name new ground | publisher=BBC Sport | date=5 October 2004 | access-date=8 December 2006 | archive-date=10 September 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910025611/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3715678.stm | url-status=live }}</ref> Emirates and Arsenal agreed to a new deal worth £150&nbsp;million in November 2012, and shirt-sponsorship was extended to five years while naming rights were extended to 2028;<ref>{{cite news |date=23 November 2012 |title=Emirates and Arsenal agree new £150m deal |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |url=http://www.arsenal.com/Emiratesnewdeal |url-status=dead |access-date=24 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121126085758/http://www.arsenal.com/Emiratesnewdeal |archive-date=26 November 2012 |df=dmy-all}}</ref> a further extension of the shirt sponsorship rights was announced in August 2023, also taking that deal through 2028.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Burrows |first=Ben |title=Arsenal extend shirt sponsorship deal with Emirates |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4742050/2023/08/02/arsenal-shirt-sponsor-emirates-deal/ |access-date=2023-08-05 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Critchlow |first=Dan |date=2023-08-05 |title=Arsenal's official new deal with Emirates worth more than expected |url=https://dailycannon.com/2023/08/arsenal-emirates-deal/ |access-date=2023-08-05 |language=en-US}}</ref>

The stadium name is colloquially shortened from "Emirates Stadium" to "The Emirates", although some supporters continue to use the former name "Ashburton Grove" or "The Grove" to refer to the stadium, particularly by those who object to the concept of corporate sponsorship of stadium names.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.arsenal-world.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=283908 |title=The 'E' Word |author=Brian Dawes |work=Arsenal World |date=26 May 2006 |access-date=8 December 2006 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061008060533/http://www.arsenal-world.co.uk/news/loadnews.asp?cid=TMNW&id=283908 | archive-date=8 October 2006 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Due to [[UEFA]] regulations on stadium sponsors, the ground is referred to as Arsenal Stadium for European matches, which was also the official name of Highbury.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UCL/FixturesResults/Round=2357/Match=1116342/Report=PR.html | title=New home, old mentality at Arsenal | author=Matthew Spiro | publisher=UEFA | date=26 September 2006 | access-date=8 December 2006 | archive-date=22 April 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090422202825/http://www.uefa.com/competitions/UCL/FixturesResults/Round=2357/Match=1116342/Report=PR.html | url-status=dead }}</ref>

===Construction and opening===
Actual construction of the stadium began once Arsenal secured funding. The club appointed [[Sir Robert McAlpine]] in January 2002 to carry out building work and the stadium was designed by [[Populous (company)|Populous]], who were the architects for [[Stadium Australia]] (home of the [[2000 Olympics]] and the [[South Sydney Rabbitohs]] [[NRL]] club) and the redevelopment of [[Ascot Racecourse]].<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/emirates-stadium-history/key-facts | title=Key Facts | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | access-date=25 February 2012 | archive-date=25 August 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080825031902/http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/emirates-stadium-history/key-facts | url-status=live }}</ref> Construction consultants [[Arcadis UK|Arcadis]] and engineering firm [[Buro Happold]] were also involved in the process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.arcadis.com/Projects/Emirates_Stadium.aspx |title=Emirates Stadium |work=ARCADIS |access-date=3 March 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101212085518/http://arcadis.com/Projects/Emirates_Stadium.aspx |archive-date=12 December 2010 |df=dmy }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.burohappold.com/projects/project/arsenal-emirates-stadium-51/ |title=Arsenal Emirates Stadium |work=Buro Happold |access-date=3 March 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330071313/http://www.burohappold.com/projects/project/arsenal-emirates-stadium-51/ |archive-date=30 March 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref>
[[File:Emirates Stadium 02.jpg|thumb|left|The Emirates Stadium under construction in May 2005]]
The first phase of demolition was completed by March 2004, and two months later, stand pilings on the West, East and North stands had been concluded.<ref name="timeline">{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/emirates-stadium-history/the-emirates-stadium-timetable | title=Stadium Timetable |publisher=Arsenal F.C. | access-date=25 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428230242/http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/emirates-stadium-history/the-emirates-stadium-timetable | archive-date=28 April 2012 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Two bridges over the [[Northern City Line|Northern City]] railway line connecting the stadium to Drayton Park were also built; these were completed in August 2004.<ref name="timeline"/> The stadium topped out in August 2005 and external glazing, power and water tank installation was completed by December 2005.<ref name="timeline"/> The first seat in the new stadium was ceremonially installed on 13 March 2006 by Arsenal midfielder [[Abou Diaby]].<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/diaby-grabs-a-seat-for-success | title=Diaby grabs a seat for success |publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=13 March 2006 | access-date=25 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120727021051/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/diaby-grabs-a-seat-for-success | archive-date=27 July 2012 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> [[DD GrassMaster]] was selected as the pitch installer and Hewitt Sportsturf was contracted to design and construct the playing field.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.prnewswire.co.uk/cgi/news/release?id=168566 | title=DD GrassMaster Selected for Arsenal's New Emirates Stadium | agency=PR Newswire |date=18 April 2006 |access-date=25 February 2012 |location=London }}</ref> [[Floodlights (sport)|Floodlights]] were successfully tested for the first time on 25 June 2006, and a day later, the [[goal (sport)|goal]]posts were erected.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/light-fantastic-floodlights-tested | title=Light Fantastic – floodlights tested | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=28 June 2006 | access-date=25 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130511184646/http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/light-fantastic-floodlights-tested | archive-date=11 May 2013 | df=dmy-all }}</ref>

In order to obtain the licences needed to open, the Emirates Stadium hosted three non-full capacity events. The first "ramp-up" event was a shareholder open day on 18 July 2006, the second an open training session for 20,000 selected club members held two days later.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/shareholders-lunch-rand-up-event-a-success | title=Shareholders lunch 'ramp-up' event a success | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=19 July 2006 | access-date=25 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130511204751/http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/shareholders-lunch-rand-up-event-a-success | archive-date=11 May 2013 | df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/players-train-at-emirates-stadium | title=Players train at Emirates Stadium | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=20 July 2006 | access-date=25 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130511194405/http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/players-train-at-emirates-stadium | archive-date=11 May 2013 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> The third event was [[Dennis Bergkamp]]'s testimonial match against [[AFC Ajax|Ajax]] on 22 July 2006.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.arsenal.com/match/report/0708bergkand-testimonial-arsenal-2-1-ajax-report |title=Bergkamp Testimonial: Arsenal 2–1 Ajax – Report |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=22 July 2006 |access-date=25 February 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107191948/http://www.arsenal.com/match/report/0708bergkand-testimonial-arsenal-2-1-ajax-report |archive-date=7 January 2012 |df=dmy }}</ref> The Emirates Stadium was officially opened by [[Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh]] on 26 October 2006; his wife [[Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom|Queen Elizabeth II]] had suffered a back injury and was unable to carry out her duty.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/hrh-duke-of-edinburgh-officially-opens-emirates-stadium | title=Duke of Edinburgh opens Emirates Stadium | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=1 November 2006 | access-date=25 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013233046/http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/hrh-duke-of-edinburgh-officially-opens-emirates-stadium | archive-date=13 October 2012 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Prince Philip quipped to the crowd, "Well, you may not have my wife, but you've got the ''second''-most experienced plaque unveiler in the world."<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/3344459/Workload-forced-Queen-to-endure-pain-for-two-weeks.html |title=Workload forced Queen to endure pain for two weeks |first=Caroline |last=Davies |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |date=27 October 2006 |access-date=21 January 2011 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402102911/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/3344459/Workload-forced-Queen-to-endure-pain-for-two-weeks.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The royal visit echoed the attendance of the Queen's uncle, the Prince of Wales (later [[Edward VIII|King Edward VIII]]) at the official opening of Highbury's West Stand in 1932.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/queen-to-officially-open-emirates-stadium |title=Queen to officially open Emirates Stadium | publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=14 September 2006 |access-date=25 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013233340/http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/queen-to-officially-open-emirates-stadium | archive-date=13 October 2012 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> As a result of the change of plan, the Queen extended to the club the honour of inviting the chairman, manager and first team to join her for afternoon tea at [[Buckingham Palace]]. Held on 15 February 2007, the engagement marked the first time a football club had been invited to the palace for such an event.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-meet-the-queen-at-buckingham-palace | title=Arsenal meet The Queen at Buckingham Palace | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=16 February 2007 | access-date=29 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013233413/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-meet-the-queen-at-buckingham-palace | archive-date=13 October 2012 | df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===Loan repayments===
Interest on the £260&nbsp;million debt was set at a commercial fixed rate over a 14-year period.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3512841.stm |title=Arsenal secure stadium cash |publisher=BBC Sport |date=23 February 2004 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=4 January 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070104115056/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/3512841.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> To refinance the cost, Arsenal planned to convert the money into a 30-year bond financed by banks.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2354035/Arsenal-260m-bond-plan.html |title=Arsenal £260m bond plan |newspaper=The Daily Telegraph |location=London |first=Mihir |last=Bose |date=20 January 2005 |access-date=24 February 2012 |archive-date=11 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140811221653/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/2354035/Arsenal-260m-bond-plan.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
The proposed bond issue went ahead in July 2006. Arsenal issued £210&nbsp;million worth of 13.5-year bonds with a spread of 52 [[basis point]]s over [[Gilt-edged securities|government bonds]] and £50&nbsp;million of 7.1-year bonds with a spread of 22 basis points over [[LIBOR]]. It was the first publicly marketed, asset-backed bond issue by a European football club.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=373845&cc=5739 | title=Arsenal sell £260 million bond to help finance stadium | work=[[ESPN Soccernet]] | date=13 July 2006 | access-date=8 December 2006 | archive-date=26 October 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026090546/http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=373845&cc=5739 | url-status=dead }}</ref> The effective interest rate on these bonds is 5.14% and 5.97%, respectively, and are due to be paid back over a 25-year period; the move to bonds has reduced the club's annual debt service cost to approximately £20&nbsp;million a year.<ref name="2007annualreport">{{cite web |url=http://www.arsenal.com/assets/_files/documents/oct_11/gun__1318505694_Arsenal_Annual_Report_May_2007.pdf |title=Statement of Accounts and Annual Report 2006/2007 |publisher=Arsenal Holdings plc |year=2007 |access-date=19 December 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108152935/http://www.arsenal.com/assets/_files/documents/oct_11/gun__1318505694_Arsenal_Annual_Report_May_2007.pdf |archive-date=8 January 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> In September 2010, Arsenal announced that the [[Highbury Square]] development – one of the main sources of income to reduce the stadium debt – was now debt free and making revenue.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/sep/24/arsenal-announce-record-pre-tax-profits |title=Arsenal announce record pre-tax profits of £56m |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first=Owen |last=Gibson |date=24 September 2010 |access-date=25 February 2012 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810102711/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/sep/24/arsenal-announce-record-pre-tax-profits |url-status=live }}</ref>

When Arsenal moved to the Emirates Stadium, the club prioritised repaying the loans over strengthening the playing squad.<ref>{{cite news |title=Young guns |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/aug/31/arsenal |newspaper=The Observer |location=London |first1=Alex |last1=Fynn |first2=Kevin |last2=Whitcher |date=31 August 2008 |access-date=19 October 2017 |archive-date=2 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170802042502/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2008/aug/31/arsenal |url-status=live }}</ref> Arsenal's self-sustaining model relied heavily on qualifying for the [[UEFA Champions League]]; as Wenger recalled in 2016: "We had to be three years in the Champions League out of five and have an average of 54,000 people, and we didn't know we would be capable of that."<ref>{{cite news |title=Arsène Wenger: Arsenal playing in a 'very difficult climate' at Emirates |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/apr/29/arsene-wenger-arsenal-failures-down-to-playing-in-difficult-climate |newspaper=The Guardian |location=London |first1=Dominic |last1=Fifield |date=29 April 2016 |access-date=19 October 2017 |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020034050/https://www.theguardian.com/football/2016/apr/29/arsene-wenger-arsenal-failures-down-to-playing-in-difficult-climate |url-status=live }}</ref> The club sold several experienced players throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s and raised ticket prices, upsetting supporters who have called for change. Wenger took umbrage over criticism and revealed the bank loans were contingent on his commitment to the club: "The banks wanted the technical consistency to guarantee that we have a chance to pay [them] back. I did commit and I stayed and under very difficult circumstances. So for me to come back and on top of that [critics] reproach me for not having won the championship during that period it is a bit overboard."<ref>{{cite news |title=Wenger: My loyalty helped build Emirates |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/wenger-my-loyalty-helped-build-emirates |magazine=FourFourTwo |date=30 April 2016 |access-date=19 October 2017 |archive-date=20 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020033434/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/wenger-my-loyalty-helped-build-emirates |url-status=live }}</ref> Wenger later described the stadium move as the toughest period of his life because of the restricted finances in place.<ref name="benge"/>

===Arsenalisation===
[[File:The Emirates Stadium - geograph.org.uk - 1717235.jpg|thumb|200px|One of the murals installed on the stadium as a result of the Arsenalisation project]]
In August 2009, Arsenal began a programme of "Arsenalisation" of the Emirates Stadium after listening to feedback from supporters in a forum.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/fanzone/supporters-forum/supporters-forum-26th-april-2009 |title=Supporters Forum – 26 April 2009 |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=26 April 2009 |access-date=29 February 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107184547/http://www.arsenal.com/fanzone/supporters-forum/supporters-forum-26th-april-2009 |archive-date=7 January 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The intention was to turn the stadium into a "visible stronghold of all things Arsenal through a variety of artistic and creative means", led by Arsenal chief executive [[Ivan Gazidis]].<ref name="Arsenalisation">{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/club-begins-arsenalisation-of-the-emirates |title=Club begins 'Arsenalisation' of the Emirates |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=24 August 2009 |access-date=2 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603112709/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/club-begins-arsenalisation-of-the-emirates |archive-date=3 June 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

Among the first changes were white seats installed in the pattern of the club's trademark cannon, located in the lower level stands opposite the entrance tunnel.<ref name="Arsenalisation"/> "The Spirit of Highbury", a shrine depicting every player to have played for Arsenal during its 93-year residence, was erected in late 2009 outside the stadium at the south end.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenalisation-special-spirit-of-highbury |title=Arsenalisation Special – Spirit of Highbury |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=31 October 2009 |access-date=2 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428050934/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenalisation-special-spirit-of-highbury |archive-date=28 April 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Eight large murals on the exterior of the stadium were installed, each depicting four Arsenal legends linking arms, such that the effect of the completed design is 32 legends in a huddle embracing the stadium:<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenalisation |title=Two more Stadium Illustrations are unveiled |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=24 August 2009 |access-date=2 November 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014040123/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenalisation |archive-date=14 October 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

{| class="wikitable"  style="width:50%; margin:1em auto 1em auto;"
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Ian Wright]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[George Armstrong (footballer)|George Armstrong]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[David Jack]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Martin Keown]]
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Cliff Bastin]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Tony Adams]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Liam Brady]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Thierry Henry]]
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|[[David Seaman]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Ted Drake]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[David Rocastle]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Alex James (footballer)|Alex James]]
|- style="text-align:center;" 
||[[Patrick Vieira]]
||[[Reg Lewis (footballer)|Reg Lewis]]
||[[Lee Dixon]]
||[[Joe Mercer]]
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Dennis Bergkamp]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Bob Wilson (footballer, born 1941)|Bob Wilson]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Eddie Hapgood]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Charlie George]]
|- style="text-align:center;" 
||[[Nigel Winterburn]]
||[[David Danskin]]
||[[Kenny Sansom]]
||[[Jack Kelsey]]
|-
| style="text-align:center;"|[[Robert Pires]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[John Radford (footballer)|John Radford]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[David O'Leary]]
| style="text-align:center;"|[[George Male]]
|- style="text-align:center;" 
||[[Ray Parlour]]
||[[Frank McLintock]]
||[[Steve Bould]]
||[[Pat Rice]]
|}

Around the lower concourse of the stadium are additional murals depicting 12 "greatest moments" in Arsenal history, voted for by a poll on the club's website.<ref name="Arsenalisation"/> Prior to the start of the 2010–11 season, Arsenal renamed the coloured seating quadrants of the ground as the East Stand, West Stand, North Bank, and Clock End.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/emirates-stadium-stands-to-be-re-named |title=Emirates Stadium stands to be re-named |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=19 July 2010 |access-date=2 November 2011 |archive-date=27 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170527215412/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/emirates-stadium-stands-to-be-re-named |url-status=live }}</ref> Akin to Highbury, this involved the installation of a clock above the newly renamed Clock End which was unveiled in a league match against [[Blackpool F.C.|Blackpool]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/history/the-arsenal-clock |title=Clock to be placed in south end of stadium |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |access-date=29 February 2012 |archive-date=17 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517232325/https://www.arsenal.com/history/the-arsenal-clock |url-status=live }}</ref> In April 2011, Arsenal renamed two bridges near the stadium in honour of club directors [[Ken Friar]] and [[Danny Fiszman]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/bridges-named-in-tribute-to-friar-and-fiszman |title=Bridges named in tribute to Friar and Fiszman |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=19 April 2011 |access-date=29 February 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006194428/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/bridges-named-in-tribute-to-friar-and-fiszman |archive-date=6 October 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> As part of the club's 125 anniversary celebrations in December 2011, Arsenal unveiled three statues of former captain [[Tony Adams]], record goalscorer [[Thierry Henry]] and manager [[Herbert Chapman]] outside of the stadium.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-statues-picture-special |title=Arsenal unveil statues of three legends |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=9 December 2011 |access-date=29 February 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212133945/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-statues-picture-special |archive-date=12 February 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
Before Arsenal's match against Sunderland in February 2014, the club unveiled a statue of former striker Dennis Bergkamp, outside the west stand of Emirates Stadium.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/club-unveils-statue-of-dennis-bergkamp |title=Club unveils statue of Dennis Bergkamp |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |date=22 February 2014 |access-date=24 February 2014 |archive-date=16 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516060317/https://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/club-unveils-statue-of-dennis-bergkamp |url-status=live }}</ref>

Banners and flags, often designed by supporters group REDaction, are hung around the ground. A large "49" flag, representing the record run of [[The Invincibles (football)|49 unbeaten league games]], is passed around the lower tier before kick off.

==Structure and facilities==
[[File:Emirates Stadium, Highbury and its surrounds from the air.jpg|thumb|left|An aerial view of the Emirates Stadium and surrounding area. Arsenal's former stadium Highbury, which has since been redeveloped into [[Highbury Square]] is visible.]]
Described as "beautiful" and "intimidating" by architect Christopher Lee of Populous,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/fans-wont-be-priced-out-of-emirates-stadium-7245244.html |title=Fans won't be priced out of Emirates Stadium |first=Stuart |last=James |newspaper=London Evening Standard |date=15 December 2004 |access-date=11 March 2013 |archive-date=14 July 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714030131/http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/fans-wont-be-priced-out-of-emirates-stadium-7245244.html |url-status=live }}</ref> the Emirates Stadium is a four-tiered bowl with translucent polycarbonate roofing over the stands, but not over the pitch.<ref name=structure>{{cite web |title=Emirates Stadium |url=http://www.designbuild-network.com/projects/ashburton/ |publisher=Design Build Network |access-date=10 March 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100405072853/http://www.designbuild-network.com/projects/ashburton/ |archive-date=5 April 2010 |df=dmy }}</ref> The underside is clad with metallic panels and the roof is supported by four triangular trusses, made of welded tubular steel.<ref name=structure /> Two trusses span {{convert|200|m}} in a north–south direction while a further two span an east–west direction.<ref name=structure /> The trusses are supported by the stadium's vertical concrete cores, eight of which connected to them by steel tripods. They in turn each house four stairways, a passenger lift as well as service access.<ref name=structure /> Façades are either glazed or woven between the cores which allows visitors on the podium to see inside the stadium.<ref name=structure /> The glass and steel construction was devised by [[Populous (company)|Populous]] to give an impression that the stadium sparkles in sunlight and glows in the night.<ref name=structure />

The upper and lower parts of the stadium feature standard seating. The stadium has two levels below ground that house its support facilities such as commercial kitchens, changing rooms and press and education centres.<ref name=structure /> The main middle tier, known as the "[[Club seating|Club Level]]", is premium priced and also includes the director's box. There are 7,139 seats at this level, which are sold on licences lasting from one to four years. Immediately above the club tier there is a small circle consisting of 150 boxes of 10, 12 and 15 seats. The total number of spectators at this level is 2,222. The high demand for tickets, as well as the relative wealth of their London fans, means revenue from [[club seating|premium seating]] and [[luxury suite|corporate boxes]] is nearly as high as the revenue from the entire stadium at Highbury.<ref>Based on a quote by chief executive [[Keith Edelman]] in ''Management Today'', quoted in: {{cite web | url=http://www.arsenalnewsreview.co.uk/reasons-to-be-cheerf/ | title=Reasons to be cheerful | work=Arsenal News Review | date=6 August 2004 | access-date=8 December 2006 | archive-date=21 October 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021060616/http://www.arsenalnewsreview.co.uk/reasons-to-be-cheerf/ | url-status=live }}</ref>

[[File:Emirates Stadium - canons.jpg|thumb|right|Cannons positioned outside the stadium]]

The upper tier is contoured to leave open space in the corners of the ground, and the roof is significantly canted inwards. Both of these features are meant to provide as much airflow and sunlight to the pitch as possible.<ref name=key_facts/> Supporters in the upper tier on one side of the ground are unable to see supporters in the upper tier opposite.<ref name=structure /> As part of a deal with [[Sony]], the stadium was the first in the world to incorporate [[HDTV]] streaming.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sony helps Arsenal to entertain football fans|url=http://www.sony.co.uk/biz/content/id/1193315645513/section/press-release-press-case-studies|publisher=Sony|access-date=10 March 2012|archive-date=14 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190614065438/https://pro.sony/en_GB/|url-status=live}}</ref> In the north-west and south-east corners of the stadium are two giant screens suspended from the roof.

The pitch is {{convert|105|by|68|m|yd}} in size and the total grass area at Emirates is {{convert|113|by|76|m|yd}}.<ref name="key_facts">{{cite news| url=http://www.arsenal.com/assets/_files/documents/oct_09/gun__1255358919_012-015.emirates.pdf| title=Emirates Stadium Facts |publisher=Arsenal F.C.| date=October 2009 |access-date=20 October 2017 | url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013232936/http://www.arsenal.com/assets/_files/documents/oct_09/gun__1255358919_012-015.emirates.pdf| archive-date=13 October 2012| df=dmy-all}}</ref> Like Highbury, it runs north–south, with the players' tunnel and the dugouts on the west side of the pitch underneath the main TV camera. The quality of Arsenal's pitch and groundsmanship has been recognised internationally by bodies such as [[Institute of Groundsmanship|the Institute of Groundsmanship]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arsenal groundstaff receive commendation |website=arsenal.com |date=18 May 2013 |url=https://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-groundstaff-receive-commendation |access-date=2023-01-08 |language=en}}</ref> and have led to the ground sometimes being referred to by players and fans as "The Carpet."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Athletic |first=The |date=2022-08-27 |title=Putting the finishing touches to the carpet |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/live-blogs/arsenal-fulham-score/P605ryV2lbhU/8ssMPkmZM9c7/ |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=The Athletic |language=en |quote=Putting the finishing touches to the carpet. The pitch at the Emirates Stadium has gained a reputation for being perhaps the most pristine surface in the Premier League.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-08-06 |title=Steve Braddock: 1964-2022 |url=https://www.arsenal.com/news/steve-braddock-1964-2022 |access-date=2023-08-05 |website=Steve Braddock: 1964-2022 |language=en |quote=As we emerged successfully into the bright, new Premier League era, it’s no understatement to say that one of the key characteristics associated with the era was that our pitch was perfection – ‘the carpet’ as it became known to many. This admirable aspect of our identity is because of Steve Braddock.}}</ref>

The away fans are found in the south-east corner of the lower tier. The away supporter configuration can be expanded from 1,500 seats to 4,500 seats behind the south goal in the lower tier, and a further 4,500 seats can be made available also in the upper tier, bringing the total to 9,000 supporters (the regulation 15% required for domestic cup competitions such as the [[FA Cup]] and [[EFL Cup]]).<ref>{{cite news
 |url          = https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/jan/04/facup-arsenal
 |title        = Van Persie settles nerves but Arsenal fail to convince
 |first        = Jamie
 |last         = Jackson
 |work         = The Observer
 |location     = London
 |date         = 4 January 2009
 |access-date  = 10 January 2011
 |archive-date = 8 March 2016
 |archive-url  = https://web.archive.org/web/20160308004707/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/jan/04/facup-arsenal
 |url-status   = live
}}</ref> In total, the current seated capacity is 60,704, with future facilities in place which may allow future expansion of seats pending approval from regulatory bodies such as the [[Islington London Borough Council|Islington Council]].

The stadium additionally has facilities for fans with disabilities including a Guide Dog Toilet facility, a Disabled Supporters Match Day Lounge, Changing Places Toilet facilities which includes a hoist and changing table. In September 2017, Arsenal opened a [[sensory room]] at the stadium for the fans.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.arsenal.com/news/arsenal-sensory-room-opens-its-doors |title=The Arsenal sensory room opens its doors |date=14 September 2017 |work=Arsenal.com |access-date=19 March 2020 |archive-date=19 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319212723/https://www.arsenal.com/news/arsenal-sensory-room-opens-its-doors |url-status=live }}</ref> There are 241 wheelchair accessible seats within the Emirates Stadium.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.arsenal.com/community/arsenal-for-everyone/facilities-at-emirates-stadium |title=Facilities at Emirates Stadium |date=31 May 2017 |publisher=Arsenal F.C |access-date=19 March 2020 |archive-date=19 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319212719/https://www.arsenal.com/community/arsenal-for-everyone/facilities-at-emirates-stadium |url-status=live }}</ref>

The Emirates Stadium pays tribute to Arsenal's former home, Highbury. The club's offices are officially called Highbury House, located north-east of Emirates Stadium, and house the bust of [[Herbert Chapman]] that used to reside at Highbury. Three other busts that used to reside at Highbury of [[Claude Ferrier]] (architect of Highbury's East stand), [[Denis Hill-Wood]] (former Arsenal chairman) and manager Arsène Wenger have also been moved to Emirates Stadium and are in display in the entrance of the Diamond Club.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/commenorative-busts-unveiled-pictures|title=Commemorative busts unveiled – Pictures|publisher=Arsenal F.C|date=18 October 2007|access-date=10 January 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012221345/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/commenorative-busts-unveiled-pictures|archive-date=12 October 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Additionally, the clock that gave its name to the old Clock End has been resited on the new clock end which features a newer, larger replica of the clock. The Arsenal club museum, which was formerly held in the North Bank Stand, opened in October 2006 and is located to the north of the stadium, within the Northern Triangle building. It houses the marble statues that were once held in the marble halls of Highbury.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arsenal.com/history/the-arsenal-museum |title=The Arsenal Museum |publisher=Arsenal F.C |access-date=10 January 2011 |archive-date=9 February 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110209170535/http://www.arsenal.com/history/the-arsenal-museum |url-status=live }}</ref>

{{wide image|Emirates Stadium - East stand Club Level.jpg|1000px|align-cap=center|A panorama of players warming up from the east side}}

==Future==
As of 2008, Arsenal's season ticket waiting list stood at 40,000 people.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/membership/need-help-/-contact-us/season-ticket-waiting-list | title=Season Ticket Waiting List | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | access-date=15 January 2013 | archive-date=13 October 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121013103820/http://www.arsenal.com/membership/need-help-/-contact-us/season-ticket-waiting-list | url-status=live }}</ref> There has also been discussion on the implementation of [[safe standing]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/nov/20/arsenal-fans-atmosphere-emirates-safe-standing |title=Arsenal fans call for safe standing to boost atmosphere at Emirates |first=Owen |last=Gibson |work=The Guardian |date=30 November 2013 |access-date=29 July 2014 |archive-date=10 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810073629/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/nov/20/arsenal-fans-atmosphere-emirates-safe-standing |url-status=live }}</ref>

In February 2022, the club announced major renovation plans to improve the Emirates Stadium.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.arsenal.com/news/season-ticket-prices-202223|title=Season ticket prices for 2022/23|work=Arsenal Media|date=28 February 2022|access-date=17 July 2022|language=en}}</ref> The first phase of renovations include installing new video boards, turnstile ticket readers, and refurbishing the stadium roof and wrap.<ref name=Renovations>{{cite web|url=https://arseblog.news/2022/02/renovating-emirates-stadium-whats-happening-when/|title=Renovating Emirates Stadium – What's happening next?|work=Arseblog News|date=17 February 2022|access-date=17 July 2022|language=en}}</ref> Future renovation plans include completely overhauling the PA system and improving mobile connectivity within the stadium.<ref name="Renovations" />

On 11 January 2023, Arsenal unveiled eight new pieces of artwork that would adorn the exterior of Emirates Stadium: ''Victoria Concordia Crescit'', ''Remember Who You Are'', ''Invincible'', ''Come To See The Arsenal'', ''Eighteen Eighty-Six'', ''We All Follow The Arsenal'', ''Future Brilliance'', and ''Found a Place Where We Belong''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.arsenal.com/emiratesstadiumartwork |title=New artwork revealed for Emirates Stadium |date=11 January 2023 |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |access-date=12 January 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-64238312 |title=Arsenal FC: Artwork to adorn exterior of Emirates Stadium |date=11 January 2023 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=12 January 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/4080477/2023/01/11/arsenal-emirates-art-work/ |title=Arsenal's new stadium artwork: What it looks like, how they did it and why |last=Lawrence |first=Amy |date=11 January 2023 |publisher=[[The Athletic]] |access-date=12 January 2023}}</ref>

In October 2025, Arsenal stated that they were looking into increasing the capacity to 70,000 with changes to the seating gradient.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestadiumbusiness.com/2025/10/07/arsenal-exploring-major-expansion-of-emirates-stadium/|title=Arsenal 'exploring' major expansion of Emirates Stadium|first=Bradley|last=Rial|date=7 October 2025}}</ref>

==Other uses==

Aside from sporting uses, the Emirates Stadium operates as a [[conference centre]].<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/membership/special-offers/hire-emirates-stadium |title=World Class Conference and Banqueting  |publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=4 August 2007 | access-date=27 February 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120205095830/http://www.arsenal.com/membership/special-offers/hire-emirates-stadium | archive-date=5 February 2012 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> On 27 March 2008, it played host to a summit between British Prime Minister [[Gordon Brown]] and French President [[Nicolas Sarkozy]], in part because the stadium was regarded as "a shining example of [[Anglo-French relations|Anglo–French co-operation]]".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/7315649.stm |title=Brown seeks 'Entente Formidable' |work=BBC News |access-date=29 February 2012 |date=27 March 2008 |archive-date=14 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190614065407/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/7315649.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> The stadium has been used as a location for the audition stage of reality shows  ''[[The X Factor (UK TV series)|The X Factor]]'',<ref>{{cite news |first=Ben |last=Walsh |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/ben-haenow-interview-id-see-x-factor-contestants-crying-on-tv-and-thought-i-was-never-one-of-those-a6695676.html |title=Ben Haenow interview: 'I'd see X Factor contestants crying on TV and thought I was never one of those people' |newspaper=The Independent |location=London |date=16 October 2015 |access-date=20 October 2017 |archive-date=21 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021004403/http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/ben-haenow-interview-id-see-x-factor-contestants-crying-on-tv-and-thought-i-was-never-one-of-those-a6695676.html |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[Britain's Got Talent]]''<ref>{{cite news |first=Frances |last=Taylor |url=http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/britains-got-talent/news/a522144/britains-got-talent-2014-open-audition-dates-revealed/ |title='Britain's Got Talent' 2014 open audition dates revealed |website=Digital Spy |date=8 October 2013 |access-date=20 October 2017 |archive-date=21 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021061323/http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/britains-got-talent/news/a522144/britains-got-talent-2014-open-audition-dates-revealed/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and ''[[Big Brother (UK TV series)|Big Brother]]''.<ref>{{cite news |first=Julia |last=Raeside |url=https://www.theguardian.com/media/tvandradioblog/2011/sep/08/big-brother-auditions |title=Reality check: what kind of person still wants to be in Big Brother? |website=theguardian.com |date=8 September 2011 |access-date=20 October 2017 |archive-date=21 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021005218/https://www.theguardian.com/media/tvandradioblog/2011/sep/08/big-brother-auditions |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2016, the Emirates was a venue for ''[[Celebrity Masterchef]]'', where contestants prepare meals for club staff members.<ref>{{cite news |first=Justin |last=Harp |url=http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/masterchef/news/a799086/celebrity-masterchef-donna-air-and-marcus-butler-eliminated/ |title=Celebrity MasterChef: Donna Air and Marcus Butler get the chop in latest episode |website=Digital Spy |date=24 June 2016 |access-date=20 October 2017 |archive-date=21 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021013624/http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/masterchef/news/a799086/celebrity-masterchef-donna-air-and-marcus-butler-eliminated/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

The Emirates has also been used as a [[music venue]] which increases the maximum capacity to 72,000.<ref>{{cite news |first=Jamie |last=Rainbow |url=http://www.worldsoccer.com/features/stadium-guide-emirates-stadium-arsenal-390367 |title=Stadium guide: Emirates Stadium, Arsenal |magazine=World Soccer |access-date=5 November 2016 |date=20 October 2017 |archive-date=7 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107124512/http://www.worldsoccer.com/features/stadium-guide-emirates-stadium-arsenal-390367 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Bruce Springsteen]] and the [[E Street Band]] became the first band to play a concert at the stadium on 30 May 2008.<ref name="bruce">{{cite news |first=Michael |last=Bonner |url=http://www.uncut.co.uk/reviews/live/bruce-springsteen-the-e-street-band-emirates-stadium-london-may-30-2008 |title=Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band – Emirates Stadium, London, May 30, 2008 |magazine=Uncut |access-date=31 May 2008 |date=20 October 2017 |archive-date=21 October 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021004021/http://www.uncut.co.uk/reviews/live/bruce-springsteen-the-e-street-band-emirates-stadium-london-may-30-2008 |url-status=live }}</ref> They played a second gig the following night.<ref name="bruce"/> British band [[Coldplay]] played three concerts at the Emirates in the June 2012, having sold out the first two dates within 30 minutes of going on sale. They were the first band to sell out the stadium for music purposes. [[Green Day]] set a gig attendance record when performing at the Emirates in June 2013.<ref>{{cite news |first=Nick |last=Levine |url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/green-day-61-1252860 |title=Green Day set new gig attendance record at London's Emirates Stadium |magazine=NME |access-date=5 June 2013 |date=20 October 2017 |archive-date=6 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161106180149/http://www.nme.com/news/music/green-day-61-1252860 |url-status=live }}</ref> The Killers played 2 exclusive sold-out concerts at the Emirates for their [[Imploding the Mirage Tour]] on 3 and 4 June 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |title=A special night at Emirates Stadium |url=https://twitter.com/arsenal/status/1533005805506772992 |access-date=2022-06-22 |website=Twitter |language=en}}</ref> [[Robbie Williams]] played two concerts at the stadium on 6 and 7 June 2025 as part of his [[Britpop Tour]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wright |first=Lisa |date=7 June 2025 |title=Robbie Williams at the Emirates Stadium review: 'a grand scale This Is Your Life' |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/culture/music/robbie-williams-emirates-stadium-review-b1231758.html |access-date=14 September 2025 |website=London Standard |language=en}}</ref>

==Records==
It is difficult to get accurate attendance figures as Arsenal do not release these, but choose to use tickets sold.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11670/9423055/request-reveals-170000-arsenal-fans-did-not-show-up-at-emirates-stadium-last-season|title=Request reveals 170,000 Arsenal fans did not show up at Emirates Stadium last season|date=15 August 2014|access-date=10 May 2015|website=A is for Arsenal|last=Solhekol|first=Kaveh|archive-date=23 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150523014056/http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/9423055/request-reveals-170000-arsenal-fans-did-not-show-up-at-emirates-stadium-last-season|url-status=live}}</ref> The average attendance for competitive first-team fixtures in the stadium's first season, [[2006–07 in English football|2006–07]], was 59,837, with a [[Premier League]] average attendance of 60,045.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/nearly-two-million-through-the-emirates-gates |title=Nearly two million through the Emirates gates  |publisher=Arsenal F.C. |access-date=24 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014035735/http://www.arsenal.com/155/unhoused-import-pages/latest-stadium-news/nearly-two-million-through-the-emirates-gates |archive-date=14 October 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> By the 2016–17 season, the reported average home league attendance was 59,957.<ref>{{cite news |first=Neil |last=Johnson |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/40704646 |title=Premier League is 25 years old: Facts and figures behind the first quarter-century |publisher=BBC Sport |date=7 August 2017 |access-date=8 November 2017 |archive-date=25 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171125223236/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/40704646 |url-status=live }}</ref> The attendances that Arsenal reported to the Metropolitan Police for the 2015–16 season show an average home match attendance of 54,918, ranging from a high of 60,007 against Aston Villa to a low of 44,878 against West Bromwich Albion.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.met.police.uk/globalassets/foi-media/disclosure_2016/june_2016/information-rights-unit---attendance-for-each-home-fixture-at-the-emirates-stadium-for-the-whole-of-20152016-season |title=Attendance for each home fixture at the Emirates stadium for the whole of 2015/2016 |publisher=Metropolitan Police |location=London |date=1 June 2016 |access-date=31 March 2018 |archive-date=1 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401004835/https://www.met.police.uk/globalassets/foi-media/disclosure_2016/june_2016/information-rights-unit---attendance-for-each-home-fixture-at-the-emirates-stadium-for-the-whole-of-20152016-season |url-status=live }}</ref> The highest attendance for an Arsenal match at the Emirates Stadium as of December 2022 is 60,383, for a Premier League match against [[Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C.|Wolverhampton Wanderers]] on 2 November 2019. The lowest attendance at the ground is believed to be 25,909 for a match against [[FC BATE Borisov]] in the [[UEFA Europa League]] on 7 December 2017, however the official attendance for the game is recorded as 54,648.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/match/2022149--arsenal-vs-bate-borisov/ |title=Arsenal 6–0 BATE |newspaper=UEFA |location=London |date=7 December 2017 |access-date=19 December 2017 |archive-date=23 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223025932/http://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/season=2018/matches/round=2000890/match=2022149/index.html#/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-vs-bate-borisov-attendance-claim-real-number-fans-supporters-lowest-ever-emirates-a8098781.html|title=Arsenal claim attendance vs BATE Borisov was 54,648|work=The Independent|access-date=2018-07-24|language=en-GB|archive-date=24 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180724164006/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/arsenal-vs-bate-borisov-attendance-claim-real-number-fans-supporters-lowest-ever-emirates-a8098781.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

The first player to score at the Emirates in a competitive fixture was [[Aston Villa F.C.|Aston Villa]] defender [[Olof Mellberg]] after 53 minutes.<ref name="villa">{{cite news |first=Simon |last=Austin |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/4786655.stm |title=Arsenal 1–1 Aston Villa |publisher=BBC Sport |date=19 August 2006 |access-date=8 November 2017 |archive-date=22 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422210558/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_prem/4786655.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> In the same match [[Gilberto Silva]] scored Arsenal's first competitive goal at the ground.<ref name="villa"/> [[Jay Simpson]] was the first Arsenal player to score a hat trick at the Emirates Stadium against [[Cardiff City F.C.|Cardiff City]] in February 2007,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/7725478.stm |title=Simpson revels in Arsenal victory |publisher=BBC Sport |date=12 November 2008 |access-date=8 November 2017 |archive-date=18 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090218153534/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/a/arsenal/7725478.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> while [[Emmanuel Adebayor]] recorded Arsenal's 100th goal at the ground in January 2008 against [[Newcastle United F.C.|Newcastle United]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/benayoun-spares-liverpool-s-blushes-1.1220084 |title=Benayoun spares Liverpool's blushes |newspaper=The Irish Times |location=Dublin |date=26 January 2008 |access-date=8 November 2017 |archive-date=9 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109081416/https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/benayoun-spares-liverpool-s-blushes-1.1220084 |url-status=live }}</ref> Arsenal's biggest margin of victory at the Emirates Stadium was by seven goals, achieved with a 7–0 win over [[SK Slavia Prague|Slavia Prague]] in the group stages of the [[UEFA Champions League]] on 23 October 2007.<ref name="score">{{cite web| url=https://www.arsenal.com/history/club-records/record-scorelines| title=Scorelines| publisher=Arsenal F.C.| date=1 June 2017| access-date=8 November 2017| archive-date=16 August 2017| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170816234455/https://www.arsenal.com/history/club-records/record-scorelines| url-status=live}}</ref>  Their biggest margin of defeat at the ground was by four goals, when they were beaten 5–1 by [[FC Bayern Munich|Bayern Munich]] in the Champions League round of 16, second leg on 7 March 2017.<ref name="score"/> [[Robin van Persie]] has scored the most goals at the Emirates Stadium with 64.<ref name="score"/>

==Transport and access==
[[File:Ashburton Grove.svg|thumb|A map of the Emirates Stadium and surrounding connections]]
The Emirates Stadium is served by a number of [[London Underground]] stations and bus routes. [[Arsenal tube station|Arsenal station]] is the closest for the northern portion of the stadium accessed via the Ken Friar bridge, with [[Highbury & Islington station]] servicing the southern end.<ref name="get">{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/get-to...-emirates-stadium | title=Get to... Emirates Stadium | access-date=23 February 2012 | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | archive-date=12 August 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080812084918/http://www.arsenal.com/emirates-stadium/get-to...-emirates-stadium | url-status=live }}</ref> While [[Holloway Road tube station|Holloway Road station]] is the closest to the southern portion, it is entry-only before matches and exit-only afterwards to prevent overcrowding. [[Drayton Park railway station|Drayton Park station]], adjacent to the Danny fiszman Bridge is shut on matchdays as the rail services to this station do not operate at weekends nor after 10&nbsp;pm.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/dyp/details.html | title=Drayton Park (DYP) | work=National Rail | access-date=23 February 2012 | archive-date=16 February 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210216084723/https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations/dyp/details.html | url-status=live }}</ref> £7.6 million was set aside in the planning permission for upgrading Drayton Park and Holloway Road; however [[Transport for London]] decided not to upgrade either station, in favour of improvement works at the interchanges at Highbury & Islington and [[Finsbury Park station|Finsbury Park]] stations, both of which are served by Underground and National Rail services and are approximately a ten-minute walk away. The Emirates Stadium is the only football stadium that stands beside the East Coast Main Line between London and Edinburgh and is just over 2 miles from London King's Cross.<ref name="guardiantube">{{cite news | url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/may/03/sport.comment1 | title=Shadow of Arsenal's grand design hangs over the little people | newspaper=The Guardian | location=London | date=3 May 2006 | access-date=26 March 2010 | first=David | last=Conn | archive-date=22 September 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140922080254/http://www.theguardian.com/football/2006/may/03/sport.comment1 | url-status=live }}</ref>
[[File:Drayton Park railway station (2018).jpg|thumb|Footbridge over [[Drayton Park railway station|Drayton Park station]], from Bryantwood Road in 2018.]]
Driving to the Emirates Stadium is strongly discouraged as there are strict matchday parking restrictions in operation around the stadium.<ref name="get" /> An hour before kick-off to one hour after the final whistle there is a complete ban on vehicle movement on a number of the surrounding roads, except for Islington residents and businesses with a road closure access permit.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.islington.gov.uk/Leisure/arsenal_new/transportinfo/roadclosures1.asp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101216065613/http://www.islington.gov.uk/Leisure/arsenal_new/transportinfo/roadclosures1.asp |title=Road Closures and Traffic |work=Islington Council |date=23 December 2009 | archive-date=16 December 2010 |access-date=12 May 2013}}</ref> The parking restrictions mean that the stadium is highly dependent on the Underground service, particularly when there is no overground service in operation.<ref name="wolves postponement">{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/16300935 |title=Arsenal put Wolves match back 24 hours |date=22 December 2011 |access-date=19 December 2012 |publisher=BBC Sport |archive-date=2 January 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130102191355/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/16300935 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The stadium opens to ticket holders two hours before kick-off.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/emirates-stadium-news/emirates-stadium-general-queries | title=Stadium: General Queries | access-date=23 February 2012 | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213194209/http://www.arsenal.com/news/emirates-stadium-news/emirates-stadium-general-queries | archive-date=13 February 2012 | url-status=dead }}</ref> The main club shop, named 'The Armoury', and [[box office|ticket offices]] are located near the West Stand, with other an additional store at the base of the North Bank Bridge, named 'All Arsenal' and the 'Arsenal Store' next to Finsbury Park station.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/the-arsenal-store-finsbury-park-sale | title=The Arsenal Store Finsbury Park – SALE | publisher=Arsenal F.C. | date=4 February 2009 | access-date=10 January 2011 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111207073653/http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/the-arsenal-store-finsbury-park-sale | archive-date=7 December 2011 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Arsenal operates an electronic ticketing system where members of 'The Arsenal' (the club's fan membership scheme) use their membership cards to enter the stadium, thus removing the need for turnstile operators. Non-members are issued with one-off paper tickets embedded with an [[Radio-frequency identification|RFID]] tag allowing them to enter the stadium.

==References==
'''General'''
* {{cite book |last1=Andrews |first1=David L. |last2=Cole |first2=Cheryl L. |last3=Silk |first3=Michael L.|title=Sport and corporate nationalisms |year=2005 |publisher=Berg |location=London |isbn=1-85973-799-4 |ref = {{sfnRef|Andrews, Cole, Silk}} }}
* {{cite book |last=Bernstein |first=George L |title=The Myth of Decline: The Rise of Britain Since 1945 |year=2004 |publisher=Pimlico |location=London |isbn=1-84413-102-5 |ref = {{sfnRef|Bernstein}} }}
* {{cite book |last=Brown |first=Adam |title=Fanatics!: power, identity, and fandom in football |year=1998 |publisher=Routledge |location=London |isbn=0-415-18103-8 |ref = {{sfnRef|Brown}} }}
* {{cite book |last=Conn |first=David |title=The Beautiful Game?: Searching for the Soul of Football |year=2005 |publisher=Random House |location=London |isbn=1-4464-2042-6 |ref = {{sfnRef|Conn}} }}
* {{cite book |last=Glinert |first=Ed |title=The London Football Companion: A Site-by-site Celebration of the Capital's Favourite Sport |year=2009 |publisher=Bloomsbury |location=London |isbn=978-0-7475-9516-8 |ref = {{sfnRef|Glinert}} }}
* {{cite book |last=Spurling|first=Jon |title=Highbury: The Story of Arsenal In, Issue 5 |year=2010 |publisher=Hachette |location=London |isbn=978-1-4091-0579-4 |ref = {{sfnRef|Spurling}} }}
{{-}}

'''Specific'''
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category}}
* [https://www.arsenal.com/the-club/emirates-stadium Emirates Stadium] at Arsenal.com

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