Abu Dhabi is set to become the second city in the world to host a Sphere entertainment venue, following the launch of the groundbreaking structure in Las Vegas. The announcement, made by Sphere Entertainment Co. in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, highlights the UAE capital’s ambition to lead the way in immersive multimedia entertainment.
This new Sphere venue will play a pivotal role in Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, aimed at positioning the city as a global center for culture and innovation. H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, stressed the significance of this project in elevating the city’s international profile and enhancing its cultural offerings. “By bringing in cutting-edge attractions like Sphere, we’re not only enhancing Abu Dhabi’s global standing but also setting new benchmarks for immersive experiences and cultural innovation,” he stated.
James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, outlined the company’s goal to create a worldwide network of Sphere venues, with Abu Dhabi being the next major location. While details about the new Sphere’s exact location are yet to be disclosed, it is confirmed that the scale will match the Las Vegas Sphere, which has a seating capacity of 20,000 and has transformed the entertainment landscape since opening in September 2023 with U2 headlining the venue’s debut.
The Las Vegas Sphere, currently the world’s largest spherical structure, stands 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide. It features the highest-resolution wraparound LED screen globally and an exterior covered in over a million LED lights that display vivid, dynamic imagery. The Las Vegas venue’s construction cost a staggering $2.3 billion, making it an iconic piece of architectural and entertainment innovation.
The Abu Dhabi Sphere project is part of a franchise agreement between Sphere Entertainment and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, subject to final approvals. The construction will be funded by Abu Dhabi’s tourism authorities, with a franchise initiation fee paid to Sphere Entertainment for the rights to develop the venue. However, details about the construction cost and timeline are still to be announced.
With this landmark project, Abu Dhabi is set to cement its position as a global leader in entertainment and innovation, building on the successful blueprint laid out by the Las Vegas Sphere.
