Abu Dhabi is set to host the world’s next Sphere entertainment venue, following in the footsteps of Las Vegas. The announcement was made by Sphere Entertainment Co. and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism on Tuesday, positioning the UAE capital as the next destination for cutting-edge multimedia entertainment housed in a giant, glowing spherical structure.
The new Sphere will play a key role in Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which seeks to enhance the city’s reputation as a global hub for culture and innovation. H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, emphasized that the project aligns with the emirate’s commitment to pioneering new standards in immersive entertainment.
“By embracing groundbreaking entertainment projects like Sphere, we are not only elevating Abu Dhabi’s global profile but also setting new benchmarks for immersive experiences and cultural offerings,” Al Mubarak said in a news release.
James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment, shared that this new location will expand the company’s vision of establishing a global network of venues. While details about the Abu Dhabi Sphere’s exact location remain undisclosed, the new venue will mirror the impressive scale of the Las Vegas Sphere, which boasts a capacity of 20,000 and has redefined entertainment experiences since opening in September 2023 with performances by rock legends U2.
The Las Vegas Sphere, standing 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide, is recognized as the world’s largest spherical structure. Inside, it features the world’s highest-resolution wraparound LED screen, offering an immersive visual spectacle. The exterior, fitted with 1.2 million LED lights, allows dynamic imagery to be displayed on a massive scale, making it a visual landmark in its own right. The Las Vegas venue cost a staggering $2.3 billion to construct.
The Abu Dhabi project is part of a franchise agreement between the city’s tourism authorities and Sphere Entertainment, subject to the finalization of definitive agreements. While details about the construction timeline and cost remain unavailable, funding for the venue will come from Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, with a franchise initiation fee payable to Sphere Entertainment for the right to develop the venue.
As plans move forward, Abu Dhabi is set to further cement its status as a leader in innovative entertainment and cultural experiences, building on the success of the Sphere in Las Vegas and aiming to provide audiences with an unforgettable new venue.
