Sphere Entertainment has announced that Abu Dhabi, UAE will be home to the second Sphere installation, aimed at becoming a new landmark.
The Abu Dhabi sphere follows from the first Las Vegas Sphere, opened in September 2023, the first in what Sphere Entertainment plans as a global network of Sphere venues.
The expansion aims to bring growth potential and drive new revenue streams through Sphere Entertainment’s technology offering and original content.
James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO, Sphere Entertainment, said: “The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement is a significant milestone toward that goal.
“Sphere is redefining live entertainment and extending the reach of its transformative impact. We are proud to collaborate with DCT Abu Dhabi to develop Sphere in their city.”
The Sphere will be located in a “prime spot” in the city of Abu Dhabi, with a similar 20,000-seat capacity as the original venue in Las Vegas. The Abu Dhabi Sphere also aims to offer opportunities to experience events, concerts, and shows like its USA counterpart.
The Department of Culture and Tourism (CT) Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee for the right to build the venue, using the company’s designs, technology and IP, with construction funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, supported by Sphere Entertainment’s own team of experts to provide services relating to development, construction, and pre-opening of the venue.
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman, DCT Abu Dhabi, commented: “We are excited to bring Sphere to Abu Dhabi in partnership with Sphere Entertainment, providing our residents and visitors with an extraordinary new form of entertainment. Sphere Abu Dhabi will seamlessly integrate advanced technology with captivating storytelling, creating unforgettable memories for everyone who visits.
“This partnership aligns with our Tourism Strategy 2030, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a vibrant hub for culture and innovation. By embracing cutting-edge entertainment like Sphere, we're not only elevating our global profile but also setting new standards in immersive experiences and cultural offerings.”
Pictured: A pre-rendering of the Abu Dhabi Sphere. - © Sphere Entertainment