The new Sphere venue in Abu Dhabi will be expected to attract residents and visitors for events of new scales and innovation. Photo Credit: Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi
Sphere Entertainment Co. and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have announced a collaboration to establish the world's second Sphere venue in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
This next-generation entertainment space aims to elevate the city's offerings for residents and visitors alike and represents a significant milestone in Sphere Entertainment's vision for a global network of venues.
James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment, remarked, "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 venue, echoing the scale of the 20,000-capacity facility in Las Vegas, promises to reshape entertainment in the Middle East.
Event planners can look forward to utilising this remarkable space for a variety of functions, including corporate events, concerts, and immersive experiences. H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, noted, "We are excited to bring Sphere to Abu Dhabi... Sphere Abu Dhabi will seamlessly integrate advanced technology with captivating storytelling, creating unforgettable memories for everyone who visits."
The Sphere is expected to be a major draw for both local and international visitors, offering new possibilities for MICE event planners seeking distinctive venues. With its cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling capabilities, the venue is set to become a focal point for innovative events that captivate attendees.
Abu Dhabi has demonstrated its commitment to becoming a global cultural and tourism hub, as seen by the city welcoming over 24 million visitors in 2023. The Sphere venue aligns with the emirate's Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to enhance its profile on the international stage.
Construction of the Sphere will be funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, which will also pay a franchise initiation fee to Sphere Entertainment for the rights to build the venue, utilising the company's proprietary designs and technology.
Following its opening, Sphere Entertainment plans to provide ongoing support, including creative and artistic content, operational services, and strategic advisory, ensuring the venue remains at the forefront of live entertainment.