London Was a Bust, But a Second Sphere Is On the Way for Abu Dhabi

Sphere Entertainment announces a second Sphere project in Abu Dhabi, after the planned London Sphere project falls through.

Sphere Entertainment and Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) announce a second Sphere project, this time in the United Arab Emirates. The news comes on the heels of the announcement in January that the London Sphere project is a bust.

“The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement is a significant milestone toward that goal,” said James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment. “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.”

Since opening the first Sphere in Las Vegas in September 2023, Sphere Entertainment has actively pursued its plans to develop a global network of Sphere venues. The expansion is expected to provide significant growth potential and drive new revenue streams by leveraging Sphere Entertainment’s expertise, proprietary technology, and original content.

“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,” added H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi. “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,” he continues. “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.”

Located in a prime spot in Abu Dhabi and echoing the scale of the 20,000-capacity Sphere in Las Vegas, the new venue promises to redefine entertainment in the region. Sphere in Abu Dhabi is expected to be a major year-round draw for both residents and visitors from around the world, offering opportunities to experience events, concerts, and shows like never before, in an unforgettable setting.

Under the terms of the partnership, which is still subject to finalization of definitive agreements, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee for the right to build the venue, utilizing Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary designs, technology, and intellectual property. Construction will be funded by DCT Abu Dhabi, with Sphere Entertainment’s team of experts providing services related to development, construction, and pre-opening of the venue.

Once the venue opens, 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. These include Sphere Experiences, use of Sphere’s brand, patents, proprietary technology, and IP, as well as operational services related to venue operations and technology, and commercial and strategic advisory support.