New Sphere location modeled on 20,000-seat Las Vegas venue opens in Abu Dhabi

Sphere entertainmentthe company behind the high-tech Bullet in Las Vegas, Nevada, has detailed plans for an upcoming second Sphere location in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The new Sphere, the second venue of its kind, is being developed in conjunction with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).

A press release distributed by Sphere Entertainment stated: “Located in a prime location in Abu Dhabi, this venue reflects the size of the 20,000 capacity Sphere in Las Vegas. It promises to redefine entertainment in the region.” Sphere in Abu Dhabi is expected to be a major draw for residents and visitors from around the world throughout the year, offering opportunities to host events, concerts and shows like never before to experience before in an unforgettable and revolutionary environment.”

The press release did not specify when construction would begin or predict when the venue would open. However, it was noted that the project is in line with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2030, a plan adopted in April 2024 His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al NahyanCrown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, aims to “increase visitor numbers to 39.3 million and increase the sector’s GDP contribution to AED 90 billion by 2030.”

The announcement also detailed the basic structure of DCT Abu Dhabi’s partnership with Sphere Entertainment for the new venue, which is an independently financed and operated Sphere Entertainment franchise: “Pursuant to the terms of the partnership, which are subject to the conclusion of final Subject to agreements, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise startup fee for the right to build the venue using Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary designs, technology and intellectual property. The construction will be funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, with Sphere Entertainment’s expert team providing services related to the development, construction and pre-opening of the venue. Following the venue’s opening, Sphere Entertainment plans to maintain ongoing agreements with DCT Abu Dhabi, which are expected to include annual fees for creative and artistic content licensed by Sphere Entertainment, such as: [two] experiences of spheres; Use of Sphere’s trademark, patents, proprietary technology and intellectual property; and operational services related to venue operations and technology, as well as commercial and strategic advisory support.”

The announcement of the second Sphere in Abu Dhabi is in line with the previously stated intentions of Sphere Entertainment and its Chairman/CEO, James L. Dolan. According to a statement from Dolan, who holds the same leadership positions Entertainment at Madison Square Garden as he does for spin-off Sphere Entertainment: “The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement is an important milestone towards that goal.” Sphere is redefining and expanding live entertainment the scope of its transformative impact. We are proud to partner with DCT Abu Dhabi to develop Sphere in their city.”

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al MubarakChairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), added: “We are delighted to bring Sphere to Abu Dhabi in collaboration with Sphere Entertainment and offer our residents and visitors an exceptional new form of entertainment. “ Sphere Abu Dhabi will seamlessly combine advanced technology with captivating storytelling, creating unforgettable memories for all visitors. This partnership is in line with our Tourism Strategy 2030 and further establishes Abu Dhabi as a vibrant hub of culture and innovation. By introducing cutting-edge entertainment like Sphere, we are not only raising our global profile, but also setting new standards for immersive experiences and cultural offerings.”

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Notably, the newly announced Sphere in Abu Dhabi is unrelated to the upcoming spherical venue in Dubai recently announced by MGM Resorts. As CEO of MGM Resorts Bill Hornbuckle said at the time that his company’s planned spherical venue in the United Arab Emirates would be “nowhere near as big as the sphere in Las Vegas, but just as compelling.” It has 300 seats, a mini-showroom and the visuals you need Of course I would also do it in a ball.”

The original Sphere in Las Vegas is currently hosting an expanded event eagle Residence. In December, multimedia project Anyama will be the first electronic music act to perform at the venue. Other ongoing attractions include U2 Concert film V-U2, Darren Aronofsky‘S Postcards from Earth Sphere Experience and more. Find tickets for upcoming concerts and events at Las Vegas, NV’s Sphere.