Abu Dhabi is set to become the next city to host a landmark Las Vegas Sphere, bringing an innovative entertainment experience to the UAE capital.
The announcement came on Tuesday, October 15, from Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), revealing plans to develop a new venue that will redefine the concept of live events in the region.
Expected to mirror the scale and grandeur of the original Las Vegas Sphere, the venue will accommodate up to 20,000 attendees, promising an immersive experience that integrates cutting-edge technology with captivating storytelling.
The venue is anticipated to become a year-round attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to enjoy concerts, shows, and special events.
While the exact location within the emirate remains undisclosed, DCT Abu Dhabi confirmed that the Sphere will be situated at a prime site, underscoring the city’s commitment to positioning itself as a global entertainment and cultural hub.
The initiative aligns with the emirate’s broader strategy to diversify its tourism offerings and boost its status as a premier destination for world-class experiences.
James L. Dolan, executive chairman and chief executive officer of Sphere Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Sphere is redefining live entertainment and extending the reach of its transformative impact. We are thrilled to bring this unique venue to Abu Dhabi and look forward to seeing how it will captivate audiences in the Middle East.”
The partnership marks a significant step for both DCT Abu Dhabi and Sphere Entertainment, as they aim to leverage the proprietary designs, technology, and intellectual property that made the Las Vegas Sphere a groundbreaking success.
Under the terms of the agreement, which are yet to be finalized, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay a franchise initiation fee to Sphere Entertainment, granting them the rights to construct the venue in the capital.
Construction of the Sphere will be funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, while experts from Sphere Entertainment will offer services related to the development, construction, and pre-opening phases of the venue.
Once completed, the Sphere is expected to set a new standard for immersive entertainment experiences, providing a spectacular platform for artists and performers from various fields.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “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.”
The project is the latest in a series of ambitious cultural and entertainment initiatives led by the emirate to enhance its global appeal.
The Sphere is expected to complement existing attractions, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Watan, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a center for art, culture, and entertainment.
As the first Sphere venue outside of Las Vegas, the project will likely pave the way for further expansion of Sphere Entertainment’s iconic concept into other international markets, setting a new benchmark for the future of live events worldwide.