Abu Dhabi’s Sphere Project Advances as MENA’s First Immersive Venue

Abu Dhabi, UAE – August 2025 – Abu Dhabi’s ambition to become a global leader in immersive entertainment is gaining momentum, as preparations for the second-ever Sphere venue continue to advance. The project, a collaboration between Sphere Entertainment Co. and the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), is on track to bring the record-breaking, tech-driven entertainment experience, first introduced in Las Vegas to the UAE capital.

Initially announced in October 2024, the Abu Dhabi Sphere will mark the Middle East debut of one of the world’s most talked-about entertainment innovations. Over the past year, planning and coordination between Sphere Entertainment and DCT Abu Dhabi have progressed significantly, with site evaluation, design development, and stakeholder integration now underway.

A Regional First for a Global Concept

Abu Dhabi’s Sphere is expected to mirror the size and visual ambition of the Las Vegas Sphere, which features a 20,000-seat capacity, 160,000-square-foot LED display, and immersive audio systems. The Las Vegas venue became a global phenomenon following its 2023 opening, hosting immersive shows and concerts from world-class performers and becoming a tourist landmark in its own right.

In Abu Dhabi, the venue will take this concept further by integrating culturally relevant content, AI-powered storytelling, and regional creative partnerships. Construction timelines and location details have not yet been formally announced, but officials confirm that foundational planning is progressing, with design finalization expected in early 2026.

Strategic Investment and Long-Term Vision

The project is fully financed by DCT Abu Dhabi, with Sphere Entertainment Co. providing proprietary design, technology, and content. Under the agreement, Sphere will earn franchise fees, technology licensing revenue, and royalties from exclusive content and operational support.

“The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today's announcement is a significant milestone toward that goal. 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,” said James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and CEO of Sphere 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,” added H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi.

As part of the long-term agreement, DCT Abu Dhabi also secured exclusive rights to open additional Sphere venues across the MENA region for at least a decade following the opening of the Abu Dhabi location.

A Cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030

Sphere Abu Dhabi will serve as a cultural anchor for Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to position the emirate as a destination for experiential tourism, global events, and tech-enabled culture. With over 24 million visitors in 2023 and a fast-growing calendar of international events, Abu Dhabi continues to invest in next-generation entertainment to diversify its tourism offering beyond heritage and hospitality.

The venue is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and support year-round programming including immersive films, concerts, brand showcases, and corporate experiences.

While a formal construction start date has not yet been confirmed, Sphere Entertainment and DCT Abu Dhabi are currently finalizing architectural partners, infrastructure assessments, and immersive content development. Industry experts expect further announcements before the end of 2025, with a potential opening date targeted between late 2028 and early 2029.

As Abu Dhabi continues to redefine its cultural and entertainment landscape, the Sphere stands as a bold symbol of innovation and international collaboration—setting new standards for what a city can offer its residents and visitors in the age of immersive, tech-led experiences.