Sphere Abu Dhabi will be the world’s second Sphere venue, following the opening of Sphere Las Vegas in 2023.
The project is backed by Sphere Entertainment Co. and DCT – Abu Dhabi.
The 20,000-capacity venue will bring live events to the capital.
The capital is adding another major name to its entertainment plans.
The UAE knows how to think big. From record-breaking towers to artificial islands and ambitious cultural districts, the country has never been shy about creating landmarks that capture global attention. Now, Abu Dhabi is adding another major name to its entertainment plans, as Sphere Abu Dhabi moves closer to becoming a reality.
Sphere Entertainment Co. and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi first announced plans to bring the world’s second Sphere venue to the UAE capital in October 2024. The project follows the debut of Sphere in Las Vegas, which opened in September 2023 and quickly became one of the most talked-about entertainment venues in the world.
What is Sphere Abu Dhabi?
Designed as a next-generation live entertainment space, the circular entertainment venue in the capital will mirror the scale of the Las Vegas venue, with a capacity of around 20,000 people. The venue is set to combine advanced visual technology, immersive storytelling and large-scale live programming, ranging from concerts and residencies to events and original productions. Experience Abu Dhabi describes the venue as being located in a prime spot in the capital, although the final public opening date has not yet been announced.
The Las Vegas flagship has already shown what the format can deliver. The venue is wrapped in a vast LED exterior and features a 16K wraparound interior screen, creating an environment built for visual spectacle and spatial sound. Since opening, it has hosted high-profile performances and immersive productions, including U2’s residency and Darren Aronofsky’s Postcard from Earth.
When will the venue open?
The Abu Dhabi project also marks a wider regional play. In July 2025, Sphere Entertainment and DCT Abu Dhabi finalised agreements linked to the construction, development and operation of Sphere Abu Dhabi. The deal also gives DCT Abu Dhabi the exclusive right to build and operate additional venues across the Middle East and North Africa for at least 10 years after Sphere Abu Dhabi opens, subject to future terms being agreed.
Under the agreement, DCT Abu Dhabi will fund construction, while Sphere Entertainment will provide pre-construction and construction-related services. The company will also license its technology, patents, trademarks and experience content for use at the Abu Dhabi venue.
The venue joins a growing list of major entertainment projects shaping the capital’s future. With Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and the wider emirate continuing to attract global brands, cultural institutions and live events, the arrival signals another step in the capital’s bid to become one of the world’s leading entertainment destinations.
Contact: www.thespherevegas.com