Abu Dhabi Starts Construction of Frank Gehry's Dar al Funoon

ABU DHABI, UAE – Abu Dhabi has announced the start of construction on Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi (House of the Arts), a major performing arts institution on Saadiyat Island that is expected to become one of the region's most advanced cultural venues when it opens in 2030.

The project was announced by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) as part of the emirate's long-term strategy to strengthen its cultural infrastructure and create new opportunities for artistic excellence, international collaboration and cultural exchange.

Designed by the late world-renowned architect Frank Gehry, Dar al Funoon will host a wide range of performances including opera, ballet, theatre, jazz and contemporary productions. The venue is expected to operate year-round, offering performances and cultural programming across all 365 days of the year.

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has witnessed the launch of the Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi (House of the Arts) development project near Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said:

“Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi represents our long-term investment in artistic expression and reflects our comprehensive approach to cultural development.

“It will become a permanent home for world-class performances, bringing together leading artists and creative talent from the UAE, the region and around the world.”

The venue will feature a performance hall with more than 2,000 seats, a 3,500-seat open-air amphitheatre, a 400-seat studio theatre and a 250-seat jazz venue, providing a combined capacity of more than 6,000 visitors.

According to officials, the centre will also support artist residency programmes, international collaborations and co-productions with leading performing arts institutions, while creating opportunities for regional performers to work alongside globally recognised artists.

Located adjacent to Saadiyat Cultural District, the building has been conceived as a celebration of music and performance. Its flowing architectural form and transparent façade are intended to create a welcoming environment that strengthens the connection between visitors and the artistic experience.

Gehry, who also designed the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, envisioned the project as a destination where architecture and culture intersect to inspire both audiences and artists.

The announcement further reinforces Abu Dhabi's growing position as a regional cultural centre. The emirate is already home to major initiatives including the Abu Dhabi Festival, Berklee Abu Dhabi, Bait Al Oud and holds UNESCO Creative City of Music status.

Beyond its cultural significance, Dar al Funoon is expected to contribute to economic development through job creation, creative industry growth and increased cultural tourism.

Officials said the project reflects Abu Dhabi's broader commitment to investing in culture as a driver of sustainable development while strengthening its position as a leading global destination for arts, creativity and cultural exchange.