USA-based Sphere Entertainment has revealed plans to build a new Sphere arena in Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Emirate’s Department of Culture and Tourism.
The venue will become the second Sphere arena, following the opening of a 20,000-capacity venue in Las Vegas in September 2023.
In a joint announcement today, Sphere Entertainment and DCT Abu Dhabi said the new venue, which will echo the scale of the Las Vegas venue, will be located in a prime spot in the city and “redefine” entertainment in the region.
The Sphere in Las Vegas, which opened in 2023 with a residency by U2, has already become an entertainment landmark, boasting the world’s largest spherical structure, a 16K LED wraparound screen, and a capacity of 20,000 people. Abu Dhabi’s version is expected to mirror these groundbreaking features, promising the same scale of immersive experiences and technological marvels that captivated audiences in Las Vegas.
No timescale has been set for the project while the partnership between Sphere Entertainment and DCT Abu Dhabi is subject to the finalisation of definitive agreements.
The deal will see DCT Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee for the right to build the venue using the latter’s proprietary designs, technology and intellectual property.
Construction will be funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, with Sphere Entertainment’s team of experts providing services relating to development, construction and pre-opening.
Following the venue’s opening, Sphere Entertainment plans to maintain ongoing arrangements with DCT Abu Dhabi that are expected to include annual fees for creative and artistic content licensed by Sphere Entertainment, such as Sphere Experiences, use of Sphere’s brand, patents, proprietary technology, intellectual property, and operational services relating to venue operations and technology.
Speaking at today’s announcement, James Dolan, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive of Sphere Entertainment, advised “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.”
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, added “we are excited to bring Sphere to Abu Dhabi in partnership with Sphere Entertainment, providing our residents and visitors with an extraordinary new form of 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. By embracing cutting-edge entertainment like Sphere, we’re not only elevating our global profile but also setting new standards in immersive experiences and cultural offerings.”
Sphere Entertainment’s Las Vegas venue was built at a cost of US$2.3 billion while the group has also been seeking to build a 17,500-seat arena in East London.
Abu Dhabi is already home to the 18,000-capacity Etihad Arena, which opened in 2021.
Born in the English county of Dorset, Nigel Benton is the co-founder and Publisher of Australasian Leisure Management, Australia, New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific’s only magazine for professionals in all areas of the leisure industry and the www.ausleisure.com.au website - the go to news resource for industry leaders and professionals.
With a long-term commitment to communicating all that is best about the leisure industry (aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues) his career has been defined by an ability to develop and implement industry communications.
Starting his career working in heritage visitor attractions and then adventure travel in Africa and the Middle East, an interest in writing about his experiences led to his change of career into magazine journalism and publishing.
In addition to publishing, Nigel speaks on marketing communications at a range of industry events.
He was made a Life Member of the World Leisure and Recreation Association in 2006 and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (London).
As of October 2024, he was inducted into the Australian Fitness Awards Roll of Honour at the 2024 AUSactive National Awards.
Among a range of published works and features, his comments on a Blog (blogspot) from 2007 to 2011, when this website went live in its current form, may be interesting to reflect back on.
His philosophy on life is to be kind to all and to indulge those that you love.
His passions include family, Newcastle United and motorcycles (especially British ones) as well, until February 2025 when she left us, caring a little pug named Stella.
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