Abu Dhabi is set to become home to the world’s second sphere, after Las Vegas, under a partnership between Sphere Entertainment Co and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.
In a joint announcement, the two organizations said the development of a sphere in the UAE’s capital city would elevate its entertainment offerings for residents and visitors alike.
“The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement is a significant milestone toward that goal,” said Sphere Entertainment’s Executive Chairman and CEO, James L. Dolan.
“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.”
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, added, “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.
“This partnership aligns with our Tourism Strategy 2030, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a vibrant hub for culture and innovation. By embracing cutting-edge entertainment like Sphere, we’re not only elevating our global profile but also setting new standards in immersive experiences and cultural offerings.”
With a capacity of 20,000 people, the original Sphere in Las Vegas opened in September 2023, providing an impressive backdrop for the inaugural Las Vegas Formula 1 Grand Prix and hosting numerous high-profile musical acts in the 14 months since, including a residency by U2.
The Abu Dhabi sphere will echo the scale of its Las Vegas peer, with Sphere Entertainment and DCT Abu Dhabi agreeing to collaborate on its development.
The new agreement will see DCT Abu Dhabi pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee for the right to build the venue, utilizing Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary designs, technology, and intellectual property, the organization’s explained.
Construction will be funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, with Sphere Entertainment’s team of experts providing services related to development, construction and pre-opening of the venue.
Abu Dhabi, which welcomed more than 24 million visitors in 2023, is actively looking to enhance its global tourism appeal and is widely expected to authorize development of an integrated casino resort, the UAE’s second after Wynn’s ongoing Ras Al-Khaimah project, in the coming months.
MGM Resorts International’s CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle recently revealed his company had already applied for an Abu Dhabi casino license.
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