Yas Island has been selected as the location for the new Sphere Abu Dhabi attraction, with Abu Dhabi's culture and tourism department investing $1.7 billion in the venue's construction.
With a capacity of up to 20,000, Sphere Abu Dhabi will offer immersive experiences, concert residencies, sporting events and brand activations.
Construction on the first Sphere venue outside of the US is expected to be completed by the end of 2029.
Sphere Abu Dhabi will be built on a plot of land between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, in close proximity to Yas Island's other theme parks and experiences.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), said the 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," he added.
First Sphere outside US
"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."
Sphere Abu Dhabi's experiences will be powered by Sphere's advanced experiential technologies.
The first Sphere, launched in 2023 in Las Vegas, is the largest spherical structure in the world with an exterior featuring 580,000 square feet of LED lighting.
It is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies including the world’s highest resolution LED screen, the world’s most advanced concert audio system, and atmospheric elements such as wind and scent.
"Sphere Abu Dhabi is the first step in realising our vision for a global network of venues," said James Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment.
"Sphere Abu Dhabi will establish Yas Island as a destination in the region for immersive experiences, and we look forward to working with DCT Abu Dhabi to see this venue come to life."
On Yas Island, Sphere Abu Dhabi will join attractions including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld, SeaWorld, and a planned Disney park.
