FAQs
FAQs
Got a Question?

If you have any questions about your visit to Utilita Arena Birmingham, check out our FAQs below. If you're unable to find what you're looking for please check out AXS Support here.

Tickets
How do I book tickets?

You can book tickets online through by simply clicking on the 'Book Now' button on the event you wish to attend from our What's On page.

If you have accessiblity requirements, tickets for accessible areas of the arena are sold online for all events (subject to availability). From the booking page just select the Accessible Tickets tile.

Our official ticketing partner is AXS. Please be aware that if you buy your tickets from unauthorised outlets you run the risk of being refused entry to the venue or not getting a refund if the event is cancelled or postponed.

Bought your tickets before 1st September?

For help with tickets purchased before 1st September, click here.

Bought your tickets after 1st September?

For help with tickets purchased after 1st September, click here.

I bought tickets from The Ticket Factory, are they still valid now they're Powered by AXS?

If you’ve already got your tickets, you don’t need to do anything, they’ll still get you into the show!

If you’ve ordered tickets, but you haven’t received them yet, you don’t need to do anything. You’ll receive your tickets within two weeks of the show date.

If you’ve ordered tickets, and selected “Mobile – Delayed Delivery” as your delivery method, your tickets will be delivered via the AXS App. 

You’ll receive an email from us within two weeks of your show date with instructions on how to access your tickets.

Need help? Check out AXS’ help pages and get in touch. 

Who are AXS?

We're delighted to announce AXS are our brand new official ticket partner for Utilita Arena Birmingham.

 

Recently named Ticketing Business of the Year, AXS are a globally recognised leader in the ticketing industry, owned by Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), one of the world's largest presenters of live music and entertainment events. 

 

They are the award-winning official ticketing partner of many venues across the UK, including The O2, BST Hyde Park, Dreamland Margate and OVO Arena Wembley. 

 

 

 

To save time when buying tickets for new events we strongly recommend you register for an AXS account and download the AXS App.

 

AXS bring with them their award winning AXS Mobile ID digital ticketing system, with tickets assigned directly to fans attending. 

 

As we transition to AXS, this will become the main way you get into events at our arenas. AXS Mobile ID allows you to manage your tickets digitally, with the option of transferring them easily amongst your party right up until the start of the show.

How do I download the AXS app?

For more information on the AXS app, AXS Mobile ID and how to access your tickets, click here.

How do I transfer AXS mobile tickets to the rest of my party?

Your mate's running late and you don't want to wait? You can transfer your tickets in an instant.

Ticket recipients can enter the event using their own ticket, in their own time. No need to hang around or miss the start of the show!

 

 

I can't download the AXS app, can I retrieve my tickets?

Your AXS Mobile ID and the AXS App are the main delivery option for Utilita Arena Birmingham.

If you are unable to download the app – please contact the venue box office on show night with your order confirmation and ID or reach out to  the AXS support team here.

I've bought tickets for an event I can no longer attend

AXS Official Resale provides the option to resell tickets at face value with a cap of no more than 10% above the price paid by fans.

This helps prevent ticket touting and help combat illegal counterfeiting. We know that fans of live entertainment have been looking for a solution to these issues for a long time.

 

 

What if I lose my phone or my battery dies on the night over the show?

Please visit the Box Office at the Arena.

You will need to provide ID to allow the team to access your account details.

Where is the box office?

You’ll find the Utilita Arena Birmingham box office located on the Arena Floor level to the right of Entrance E. This is accessible from both the North & South car parks.

The Utilita Arena Birmingham box office is open on event days. Opening hours are limited and subject to change at short notice. To confirm our box office opening times before travelling please check here.

If you have a particular question about your ticket, why not check out AXS Support – our official venue box office. 

What time does the box office open?

The Box Office is usually open for evening events/concerts at approx. 4pm. On certain event days, the Box Office may be open earlier or later dependant on the nature of the event. Please note, the box office is not open on non-show days.

To confirm our box office opening times before travelling please check here.

How do I collect my tickets from the box office?

Check what time the box office opens for your event, and head down with your ticket booking confirmation and photo ID. Our box office team will take it from there.

Do I need to bring ID to my event?

If there is a strict ID policy in place for your event, we will notify you at the time of booking and in subsequent event communications.

Where's my seat? / Are my seats any good?

Seating varies for every event, and the seating layout can be subject to change before the concert takes place. However, if you booked through our official box office, AXS, you can see which block you are in as you book. Alternatively, you can check out the seating plan on your event page to use as a guide.

What does "restricted view" mean?

A restricted view means there may be something obstructing your view of the event.

Your Visit
What time does the venue open?

Door opening times vary for every event. Check the venue event webpage for the latest times.

How do I get to the venue?

Check out our Getting Here page for more info.

Where do I park and how can I pre-pay?

Please go to the parking page for more information and pre-book your parking. 

What time should I arrive for my event?

Make sure you arrive in plenty of time taking into consideration security measures. We would advise checking your journey in advance for any possible delays i.e.traffic/transport/weather etc.

Do you operate a numbering system for the queue?

No, we do not operate any queue numbering system, as we don’t encourage any form of queueing prior to doors opening.

Can I bring food and drink to an event?

Generally, no food or drink purchased outside Utilita Arena Birmingham is permitted to be taken inside. Should you need to bring an item of food or drink in with you due to medical or religious reasons, please contact us prior to your visit. You should also check our confiscation list for prohibited items (e.g. glass bottles, cans etc.) before your visit. 

Will I be searched and could I be refused entry?

In the interest of safety and security, all attendees will be asked to go through airport style security arches and be subject to a bag search prior to entry. Further security checks including pat downs may be conducted on the discretion of security. Non-compliance may result in entry being refused. The security process is a condition of entry - any refusal, or the use of abusive, threatening or discriminatory remarks; including comments relating to weapons or explosives, will result in access being refused.

I'm arriving before the rest of my group but I have their tickets, can I leave their tickets somewhere?

We’re afraid not, you’ll need to enter the Arena together.

What are the timings for my event?

Door opening times and show start times vary for every event and should be detailed on your ticket.

Running times are usually confirmed closer to the event. These will be posted as soon as we have them on the Event page, so check back a week before for updates. Please note though that all timings are approximate and subject to change with no notice.

Can I stand up and dance in my seat?

It is accepted that at most concerts, the audience may stand through all or part of the performances – it is often encouraged by some artists.

This is also stated on your ticket if you buy through our official box office, AXS. However, standing on seats and in the aisles is strictly prohibited on health and safety grounds. If you have accessibility requirements, please advise your ticket agent at the time of booking.

Will there be big screens at the event?

Please note that where screens are used in a concert, this will be as part of the touring stage set, decided upon by the artist and their Production. The venue does not provide screens for any concert and as such this facility is never guaranteed.

Can I get into the standing area with a seated ticket?

No. Access is strictly limited to the area which your tickets are for.

Will there be strobe lighting?

Strobe lighting may be used during some performances. Customers will be notified via signage on doors and/or digital screens if a performance includes the use of strobe lighting. If you have any concerns/queries around this, please speak to a member of security on arrival who will be able to provide you with more information.

Will I be filmed at an event?

At certain times the Arena may be used to film promotional material, and by attending an event at the venue you consent to the possibility of being filmed.

For reasons of public safety and security, and for crime prevention and detection purposes, CCTV is in operation at and/or around the Arena. For more information, take a look at our group privacy notice

Am I allowed to mosh at a gig?

Moshing can lead to the injury of others and is therefore prohibited at the Arena.

Can I crowd surf at a concert?

Any conduct which could be deemed as dangerous e.g. crowd surfing and could lead to serious injuries to yourself and others are prohibited. Such activities may result in ejection from the venue without a refund.

Are there places to eat and drink inside the arena?

We have a variety of food and drink outlets inside the venue to suit a majority of dietary requirements. For more information, visit our Food and Drink page

Where can I smoke/vape?

Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere in the building. Dedicated external smoking/vaping areas can be found at the ends of the main concourse by blocks 1 and 12.

Does the venue have a cloakroom?

Unfortunately the venue does not operate a cloakroom. We therefore suggest that you keep your personal belongings to a bare minimum, as we cannot accept responsibility for items brought onto the premises.

What do I do if I need medical assistance when I'm at the venue?

The Arena’s medical centre is available on the concourse level opposite the entrance door to Block 2. In the event of an emergency please notify a member of Security, or any member of staff.

Can I leave the venue once I'm inside?

Once you have had your ticket scanned and entered the venue, there is no readmittance if you leave.

What is "cashless"?

The venue is cashless. Therefore, all transactions should be paid by card or contactless rather than cash. This means a speedier and safer service for everyone.

What cards / methods of payment are accepted?

We accept all cards, Apple Pay, Android Pay and Samsung Pay, except for American Express.

My teenage daughter/son is attending a concert, how can they pay for food and drink without money?

We are a cashless venue, therefore only card payments are accepted. We’re aware that a variety prepaid cards are now available, which will allow them to use our cashless tills. We accept all major prepaid cards and it means you can load as little or as much as you want them to spend on the night!

Can I get an autograph/shout out or send you fan mail to pass on to an artiste?

At the Arena we liaise with Production Managers and Concert Promoters rather than the artistes directly. This means we cannot guarantee any acknowledgement from the artists themselves as the decision rests completely with their Tour Management.  

We will ensure however, that any fan mail is passed onto the Tour Management on the day of the show. Please do not bring fan mail with you to the event, instead post it to us at: [Artiste Name] Fan Mail, Utilita Arena Birmingham, King Edward’s Road, Birmingham, B1 2AA.

We do receive a lot of fan mail and cannot guarantee that it will be acknowledged, nor can we guarantee return of any items sent in. 

Please do not bring gifts for the artiste to the event with you as we are unable to accept responsibility for them.

Can I get backstage or have a meet and greet?

Unfortunately, as a venue, we’re not responsible for the distribution of backstage passes, which are for working personnel only. Occasionally, meet and greet passes are won as competition prizes or offered as part of VIP tickets. These are issued by the promoter not the venue, so please do not contact us to request backstage passes as we will be unable to help you.

Can I film an event?

Please note that unauthorised filming of an event by audience members will not be tolerated. Anyone found to be filming illegitimately will have their equipment confiscated or risk ejection from the venue.

Can I take photos/film the event?

We understand the desire to film or take a few snaps during the event/ performance, however every Event Promoter has their own policy regarding the admission of cameras, and this can change at short notice. Generally, filming is not permitted, but small instamatic cameras and smartphone cameras are generally permitted by Promoters for taking photos on (not filming).

Professional type cameras (those with the fancy interchangeable lenses) are a definite no-no unless you’re an officially accredited photographer covering the event. We’re afraid video cameras, audio equipment, go-pros, iPads and tablets are also on the no-no list. If you bring a camera that’s not permitted for the event, you’ll be required to leave it at the confiscation kiosk for collection after the event. Certain shows may have stricter restrictions. Please visit the event page for the event you are attending for any specific restrictions.

How do I arrange a charity collection at an event?

Please note that any charity collections must be agreed in writing by the Concert Promoter in advance of the Concert date. For further information, please email arena-sales@necgroup.co.uk.

Can you donate a prize for a charity raffle?

Utilita Arena Birmingham is part of the NEC Group, which has taken the decision to support a single charity each year. We feel that by doing so we can make a greater impact, and currently we are supporting The Lily Mae Foundation. Unfortunately, on this basis we are unable to support raffle requests, however we wish every fundraiser the very best of luck in their endeavours.

Where can I buy merchandise?

Most concerts bring merchandise to sell. Official merchandise units can be found around the venue.

Please be aware that certain events attract unauthorised sellers that may sell inferior products which may not be safety tested outside the venue. Those who purchase unofficial merchandise from these sellers do so at their own risk, as they may not be permitted into the venue.

I have a question about merchandise I purchased at Utilita Arena Birmingham

Concert merchandise sales are operated by venue merchandisers, National Merchandise. They are contactable on enquiries@nationalmerchandise.co.uk.

There are people selling cheaper merchandise outside the venue, are they part of your company?

No. These are unofficial merchandise sellers, and have no connection to the venue. As they trade on public land, unfortunately they cannot be removed. Those who purchase unofficial merchandise from these outlets do so at their own risk.

Are there any age restrictions at the venue?

For all events at Utilita Arena Birmingham children under 14 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult aged 18+ with a valid ticket to enter the venue.

On applicable shows, the ‘Standing Area’ of the arena bowl is not suitable for anyone under 14 years of age and we advise booking seated tickets if your party includes anyone under the age of 14. Please note, the venue reserves the right to remove or reseat (if possible) any child in the standing area who appears to be under 14 for safety reasons.

Due to the sound levels experienced during an event, the venue recommends that children under 5 should not attend concerts or events other than those specifically aimed at younger visitors, i.e. children’s shows.

Generally, children under the age of 1 that are attending a children’s show and sitting on an adult’s knee, do not need a ticket. However, we advise you to please check the event details prior to booking Please note though that any interruption caused by young children/babies that directly affects other members of the audience may result in you being asked to leave the performance area.

Certain shows will also have their own specific age restrictions. Please check the relevant event page before booking to avoid any disappointment.

How old do you have to be to stand at a concert?

Under 14 year olds are not permitted on a standing floor.

14 and 15 year olds are only permitted on a standing floor when accompanied by an adult aged 18yrs+.

Does my child need a ticket if they sit on my knee?

Due to the sound levels experienced during an event and the long-term hearing damage this could cause, we strongly recommended  that children under 5 should not attend concerts or events other than those specifically aimed at younger visitors, i.e. children's shows. Any interruption caused by young children/babies that directly affects other members of the audience may result in you being asked to leave the venue immediately.

Children aged 2 and under attending children’s shows, and sitting on an adult’s knee do not need a ticket.  Please check the event details before booking.

Can I bring a pushchair/car seat/carry cot?

Please note that whilst you may bring your children to the venue in a pushchair, car seat or carry cot, we do not allow these items into the Arena bowl. Please speak to Security on arrival – items can be left in a designated area at the owner’s own risk.  

What baby/toddler facilities/services do you have?

Baby changing facilities are located in the majority of toilets (female and male) around the venue. If you need a quiet area to breast feed or warm a bottle, please go to our Medical Centre on the concourse level opposite the entrance door to Block 2.

Can I bring in baby bottles?

Thermal bottles are not permitted in the venues as they are not collapsible under foot and cause a trip hazard in the event of an evacuation. Sealed plastic bottles are however permitted into the venue.

I am visiting with a party of school children/students — do you have a risk assessment?

We work closely with show organisers to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our visitors at all times.

The NEC Group Arenas have prepared a risk assessment form which can be used as a guideline. Completion of this form or your own company policy form covers your party in public areas.

For all other queries please contact NEC Safety, Health & Environment on 0121 780 4141.

Do you have a prayer room/quiet space?

We don’t currently have a dedicated prayer room/quiet space at the venue. We will try and accommodate your request on the day where we can but cannot guarantee available and suitable space.

Can I get drinking water in the venue?

Yes, water stations can be found in public circulations areas in the Beat on Arena floor level (by the female toilets) and on the concourse level at the end of the catering units opposite the Block 7 door. For standing shows we also have a water station in the entrance B/C lobby on the Arena floor level.

Can I bring a banner/poster/flag?

Generally, we discourage people from bringing posters, flags and banners to events as they can restrict the view of people sitting behind you. At the risk of getting your posters confiscated and upsetting other audience members, we would suggest that you don’t bring them with you. Flags and banners with large poles will be confiscated for health and safety reasons, as will any banner/poster with wording deemed to be offensive.

Can I distribute leaflets at an event?

Please note that we do not allow leafleting outside of Utilita Arena Birmingham. Any leafleting inside the arena or within our car parks must be done so with prior agreement from both the Concert Promoter and the venue. Where permitted, a charge may be made for this activity. The venue reserve the right to evict those conducting unauthorised leafleting from the premises.

Security
What are your current security measures?

Your safety and security is our top priority. Working together with local and national authorities, security measures at our Arenas are under constant review to ensure that they remain effective and proportionate.

We have comprehensive and integrated overt security measures in place including; tailored venue search operations, strategically placed security personnel, multi-purpose dog response teams and intelligence led CCTV monitoring.

In addition, extensive covert security measures are also in place, so whilst you may not see all operational security activity, you should be assured that activity is on-going, often behind the scenes.
We work in partnership with West Midlands Police, who often deploy a variety of resources to work alongside our teams.

These controls and other protective measures are in place across all NEC Group venues, throughout event periods and at all other times.

What can you do to help?

  • We encourage you to arrive to the venue as early as possible, to allow more time for enhanced security checks.
  • A full list of prohibited items can be viewed in the FAQ tab: ’What items are not permitted to be brought into the venue’
  • Our security teams work hard to keep you safe, please be patient and help them by co-operating with their requests.
  • Customers who make any inappropriate comments to staff or other event goers, even in jest, will be refused entry.
  • As always, please remain vigilant and if something doesn’t look right, you should speak to staff or the Police who will take appropriate action.
Will I be searched?

In the interests of safety and security, a search will take place. Please allow additional time for this process.

The security search process is a condition of entry.  Any refusal or the use of abusive, threatening or discriminatory remarks, including comments relating to weapons or explosives will result in access being refused.

What is your bag policy?

To help speed things up, enable a contactless entry and to ensure your safety, we’d really prefer if you didn’t bring a bag to our venue. 

However, if you do, please only bring essentials with you and not the kitchen sink. You must only bring one bag that is no larger than 21cm x 30cm x 19cm – that’s the size of an A4 sheet of paper. 

For full details on our bag policy, click here.

I was at an event recently and my bag wasn't checked?

Bag searching is just one of many components which go into our security measures but for obvious reasons, we don’t go into specific security details for individual shows as this is potentially detrimental to these processes.

We have additional security measures in place including visible armed police and dog patrols throughout event periods and at all venues to ensure you guys feel relaxed and comfortable whilst at the show. Also, just a heads up, searches will be carried out throughout the day and evening on all our sites, so be cooperative if one of the teams ask.

What items are not permitted to be brought into the venue?

At Utilita Arena Birmingham we’re all about ensuring every visitor has a great time, but rules are rules. It’s a condition of our venue licence that certain items are not allowed into the Arena in the interests of health and safety.

These items include, but are not limited to:
food and drink, alcohol, glass bottles, cans, flasks, cool boxes, hampers, large flags/banners, helium balloons, studded belts, dog collars, trouser chains, selfie sticks, sharp/large rings, smoke grenades, flares and fireworks.

Items will be confiscated and returned to you after the event, which may delay your access into and out of the Arena. If in doubt, leave it home would be our recommendation. Please note, prohibited items vary on a show-to-show basis; please refer to your ticket terms and conditions for any items that are not allowed into the venue.

What can I do to help?

We encourage you to arrive to the venue as early as possible, to allow more time for enhanced security checks.

It is best for everyone if you do not bring a bag at all, however if you do, please only bring essentials with you:

NOT PERMITTED

  • Any bag larger than 21cm x 30cm x 19cm – that’s the size of an A4 sheet of paper. 
  • A full list of prohibited items can be viewed in the ‘What items are not permitted to be bought into the venue’ section above.

Our security teams work hard to keep you safe, please be patient and help them by co-operating with their requests.

Customers who make any inappropriate comments to staff or other event goers, even in jest, will be refused entry.

As always, please remain vigilant and if something doesn’t look right, you should speak to staff or the Police who will take appropriate action.

What advice are you giving to people coming to your venues?

If you’re coming to a show in the near future, we’re encouraging you to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity you may to see to a member of our security staff or the police. Please give yourselves plenty of time when planning your journey and get here as early as you can as enhanced security checks will be in place.

How will queuing be effected?

We encourage you to arrive as early as possible to allow time for enhanced security checks when heading into the venue.
We have additional security measures in place including visible armed police and dog patrols throughout event periods and at all venues to ensure you feel relaxed and comfortable whilst at the show. Also, just a heads up, searches will be carried out throughout the day and evening at all sites, so be prepared if a member of the team asks.

What is deemed as unacceptable behaviour in the venue?

Excessive intoxication, aggressive and antisocial behaviour will result in you being asked to leave or being removed from the venue without a refund. Please be mindful of other customers safety and comfort around you. 

If you have any concerns about the behaviour of any other persons around you, please speak to one of our team members at your earliest convenience.

We operate a zero tolerance approach to abuse of venue team members. Physical or verbal abuse will not be tolerated. Find out more about our zero tolerance policy

Feedback & Enquiries
Ticketing Enquiries

If you have purchased your tickets from AXS or The Ticket Factory, please check out AXS Support.

If you purchased tickets from another ticket agent, then please contact your point of purchase.

Venue Box Office Location / Opening Enquiries

Please refer to our "Ticketing" FAQs above.

At your event...

Please approach any member of security or the stewarding team, who will be more than happy to help you with any enquiries.

What if my seats are unsatisfactory?

If you require alternative seating please return to Customer Services at the Box Office whilst you are at Utilita Arena Birmingham. If you see empty seats in the arena bowl, please do not assume that you can move into them without first asking a member of staff.

How do I leave feedback?

We welcome all feedback and if you would like to contact us about a recent experience at Utilita Arena Birmingham, please email us at feedback@necgroup.co.uk.

How do I make a complaint?

Utilita Arena Birmingham strives to make your visit as enjoyable as possible, however if you do encounter a problem please return to Customer Services at the Box Office immediately and they will offer every assistance possible. There is also a Manager on duty at each event. Please note that it is easier to resolve a complaint at the time as there is often little we can do after the event.

If you have any suggestions or comments you wish to make, please advise a member of staff. Alternatively, write to:
Visitor Experience Manager
The NEC
Birmingham
B40 1NT

Or email them at: feedback@necgroup.co.uk

I have lost an item of belongings at the venue. What do I do?

If you have lost an item at the venue, please contact the venue on InfoEmailAccount@necgroup.co.uk and our team will be happy to look into this for you.