Sphere Entertainment partners with Abu Dhabi to build new entertainment venue

Sphere Entertainment Co. (SPHR) and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi are collaborating to build the second global Sphere venue in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This innovative entertainment medium is expected to expand the city’s entertainment offerings and benefit both residents and tourists.

James L. Dolan, CEO of Sphere Entertainment, emphasized that this announcement represents a critical step in creating a global network of Sphere venues. He also expressed his company’s pride in working with DCT Abu Dhabi to bring Sphere to their city.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, echoed Dolan’s enthusiasm, stating that Sphere will offer its residents and visitors an exceptional new form of entertainment. The partnership is in line with its Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to position Abu Dhabi as a global center for culture and innovation.

Following the successful launch of the first Sphere in Las Vegas in September 2023, Sphere Entertainment has been actively developing strategies to expand its network of venues worldwide. This planned growth promises to develop new revenue streams by leveraging the Company’s expertise, proprietary technology and original content.

The Sphere in Abu Dhabi will mirror the Sphere in Las Vegas with a capacity of 20,000. It is expected to be a major attraction all year round, offering unique opportunities to experience events, concerts and shows in a revolutionary environment.

As part of the partnership, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise origination fee for the right to build the venue using Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary designs, technology and intellectual property. DCT Abu Dhabi will finance construction, while Sphere Entertainment will provide development, construction and pre-opening services.

Following the opening of the venue, Sphere Entertainment plans to continue working with DCT Abu Dhabi. This collaboration may include annual fees for creative and artistic content licensed from Sphere Entertainment, use of the Sphere brand, patents, proprietary technology, intellectual property and operational services related to venue operations, technology, commercial and strategic advisory support.

Sphere is a groundbreaking entertainment venue offering unique experiences, concerts, top artist residencies and large corporate events. The first Sphere, a Las Vegas landmark, opened in September 2023.

Sphere Entertainment Co. is a leading live entertainment and media company that operates two regional sports and entertainment networks as well as a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming product.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is focused on the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture, tourism sector and creative economy and aims to strengthen the city’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation and unparalleled experiences.