Sphere Entertainment Co. has announced a landmark collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) to establish the world’s second Sphere venue in the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
The innovative entertainment structure will be a groundbreaking addition to Abu Dhabi’s growing cultural and tourism portfolio, bringing a new dimension to live entertainment for both residents and international visitors.
James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, highlighted the significance of this expansion: “The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement marks a major milestone toward that goal. Sphere is redefining live entertainment, and we are excited to collaborate with DCT Abu Dhabi to introduce this transformative experience to the city.”
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, echoed these sentiments, saying: “We are thrilled to partner with Sphere Entertainment to bring this extraordinary new form of entertainment to Abu Dhabi. The Sphere will merge advanced technology with compelling storytelling, creating unforgettable experiences for everyone who visits. This collaboration aligns with our Tourism Strategy 2030, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s status as a cultural hub and leader in immersive entertainment.”
Since the launch of the first Sphere venue in Las Vegas in September 2023, Sphere Entertainment has been actively pursuing its goal of establishing a global network of these futuristic entertainment venues. The venue in Abu Dhabi is expected to follow the scale and success of its 20,000-capacity counterpart in Las Vegas, offering a unique combination of immersive technology and large-scale live events, such as concerts, shows, and performances.
The venue, which will be located in a prime area of Abu Dhabi, aims to enhance the city’s appeal as a year-round destination for international visitors. In 2023, Abu Dhabi welcomed more than 24 million tourists, and this new venue will further cement its reputation as a global leader in culture, innovation, and entertainment.
Under the terms of the partnership, DCT Abu Dhabi will cover the construction costs of the Sphere, which will be designed and built using Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary technology and expertise. In return, Sphere Entertainment will receive a franchise initiation fee and will provide ongoing support in areas such as development, construction, and pre-opening services. Post-launch, the company will maintain an ongoing relationship with DCT Abu Dhabi, including licensing content, providing operational services, and offering strategic advisory support.
The Abu Dhabi Sphere promises to redefine entertainment in the region, offering cutting-edge immersive experiences that will attract visitors from across the globe, furthering the emirate’s vision as a dynamic cultural and tourism destination.