The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Sphere Entertainment have announced plans to build Sphere Abu Dhabi, a new entertainment venue on Yas Island, with a construction cost of $1.7bn.
This project marks the first Sphere venue outside the US and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2029.
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Sphere Abu Dhabi will be situated between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and will be within close proximity to other major attractions on Yas Island.
The venue will host events across three main categories: multi-sensory Sphere Experiences, concert residencies, and major events, such as sports, product launches and conferences.
The facility, comparable to the Sphere in Las Vegas, will have a capacity of up to 20,000 attendees, depending on event configuration and will feature advanced experiential technologies.
Sphere Abu Dhabi will also showcase the work of Emirati artists on its exterior LED screen and plans to host performances by both local and international artists.
Organisers expect ongoing operations at the venue to generate thousands of jobs in the region.
Construction and integration will involve coordination with the Department of Municipalities and Transport, the Department of Energy, Etihad Rail, the Integrated Transport Centre, Taqa and Aldar. This collaboration aims to ensure that road improvements and infrastructure align with developments on Yas Island.
Located a short distance from Zayed International Airport, the venue is planned as a gateway to Abu Dhabi’s culture and entertainment sector.
Sphere Abu Dhabi will add to the emirate’s list of major projects, standing alongside Saadiyat Cultural District and the forthcoming Disney theme park resort on Yas Island.
The venue is expected to reinforce Yas Island’s status as a destination for global events, including providing a broadcast backdrop for the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
DCT Abu Dhabi Chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak said: “This project reflects the strength of Abu Dhabi’s international partnerships, built on shared ambition and mutual confidence in what this emirate represents as a global destination.
“Together, we are creating a venue that will draw our community, visitors, creators and investors to Yas Island and Abu Dhabi for decades to come.
“And at its heart, Sphere Abu Dhabi will be a platform for Emirati culture, Emirati talent and Emirati storytelling, shared with the world on the grandest stage ever built.”
