The SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena, Metro Manila’s largest live entertainment venue, posted a strong performance in 2024 as events held at the venue drew over one million in total ticket attendance.
Located within the SM Mall of Asia Complex, the SM MOA Arena hosted a diverse mix of shows in 2024, with over half of its events dedicated to sports, concerts and family-oriented shows. The rest comprised corporate and special events, reinforcing its status as the Philippines’ premier venue for large-scale events and international artists.
“Live entertainment venues are strategic contributors to our company’s portfolio. They strengthen the SM ecosystem by driving foot traffic and supporting the performance of our mall tenants and adjacent businesses,” said SM Prime president Jeffrey C. Lim.
SM MOA Arena has a seating capacity of 15,000, expandable to 20,000, and offers International Basketball Federation (FIBA)- and National Basketball Association (NBA)-compliant facilities. To maintain its world-class standing, the SM MOA Arena underwent a three-year modernization program that began in 2022, with an investment of over US$10 million.
Upgrades include digital turnstiles, a new 702 square meter giant LED Media Mesh, enhanced Public Address (PA) systems, newly installed acoustic panels, improved back-of-house areas and new spectator seating—all designed to elevate the customer and event experience.
In 2024, the SM MOA Arena was named Sports Venue of the Year at the 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards, highlighting its contribution to both the MICE and tourism sectors—two key areas of opportunity as the country’s service economy continues to rebound.
“Our solid performance in 2024 reflects the growing appetite for live experiences and the broad appeal of SM Prime’s integrated developments,” said Lim. “This year, we expect an even stronger lineup of global and local events that will help drive sustained growth across our lifestyle and commercial assets.”
Over the past two years, the SM MOA Arena has hosted some of the biggest headline acts, including the Backstreet Boys, Alanis Morissette, Sam Smith, Jonas Brothers, 2NE1, Itzy and Niall Horan, while the banner for OPM artists includes Regine Velasquez, Sharon and Gabby, Pops and Martin, Gary Valenciano, Juan Karlos, December Avenue and Ben&Ben.
For 2025, global acts confirmed to perform at the SM MOA Arena include the much anticipated j-hope Tour “HOPE ON THE STAGE” in Manila, Lee Min-ho, Toto, Jo Koy, the Black Eyed Peas and Mariah Carey. On the domestic front, major events such as the 2025 Miss Universe Philippines Coronation and various collegiate sports events are also expected to draw strong crowds.