The future of live entertainment in the Philippines continues to gain global recognition as the SM Mall of Asia Arena has been named one of the Top 20 Global Arena Stars of 2026 by IQ Magazine, placing it among the world’s leading concert and live event destinations.
IQ Magazine, a widely respected publication in the live music and entertainment industry, serves over 100,000 professionals worldwide, including concert promoters, booking agents, festival organizers, and venue operators. Its Global Arena Stars list highlights venues that demonstrate excellence in programming, operations, and audience experience.
Since opening in 2012, the SM Mall of Asia Arena has hosted more than 2,400 events, including concerts, sporting competitions, and large-scale entertainment productions. Over the past year, it has welcomed international artists such as Mariah Carey, Bryan Adams, and Josh Groban, further solidifying its reputation as a premier venue for world-class performances.
The recognition places the Philippine arena alongside some of the world’s most iconic venues, including the Coca-Cola Arena, Intuit Dome, Avicii Arena, Uber Arena, and Barclays Center.
According to industry observers, the award reflects the Arena’s continued investment in innovation, facility upgrades, and seamless event execution—factors that have helped it remain a preferred destination for both international and local acts.
The recognition also comes ahead of the venue’s 14th anniversary, marking another milestone in its evolution as a central hub for entertainment in the country. SM is also expanding its footprint in the live events space with the upcoming SM Seaside Cebu Arena, aimed at bringing similar world-class experiences to audiences in the Visayas region.
More than just a venue, the SM Mall of Asia Arena continues to position itself as a flagship destination for live entertainment in the Philippines, offering large-scale experiences that bring fans closer to global performances and unforgettable events.
