Sphere Abu Dhabi Project Moves Forward with Global Entertainment Plans
Sphere Abu Dhabi has taken a big step toward becoming a reality. Sphere Entertainment Co. and the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have signed important agreements for building and developing the venue.
This project will bring the world’s second Sphere venue to the UAE capital, making Abu Dhabi a key destination for next-level live entertainment in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Abu Dhabi Gets Exclusive Rights for Sphere Venues in MENA
The agreements give DCT Abu Dhabi exclusive rights to build and operate Sphere venues across the MENA region for at least 10 years after the Abu Dhabi venue opens.
James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment Co., shared the company’s vision. “We want a venue that’s busy every day of the year, with several events on most days,” he said. “While we started in Las Vegas, our plan has always been to create a global network of Spheres.”
Las Vegas Sphere — The First of Its Kind
The first Sphere opened in Las Vegas in 2023. It quickly became a global landmark. The venue has a seating capacity of about 20,000 and features the world’s largest 16K wraparound interior screen.
In just its first year, it welcomed over 24 million visitors. The success of the Las Vegas Sphere has set high expectations for the Abu Dhabi project.
Partnership Brings Strong Regional Benefits
Under the new agreements, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay a franchise initiation fee, ongoing royalties for using Sphere’s designs and technology, and milestone payments as the project moves forward.
This partnership is expected to boost tourism and create new business opportunities in the UAE. It also supports Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a cultural and entertainment hub in the region.
The venue will host a wide range of events — concerts, immersive shows, sports events, corporate gatherings, and cultural performances — offering entertainment all year round.
Sphere Entertainment’s Strong Financial Performance
Sphere Entertainment Co. recently reported solid financial results for the three months ending June 30, 2025.
The company earned $282.7 million in revenue, up by 3% compared to the same time last year. Its operating loss reduced to $50.2 million, an improvement of $21.2 million. Adjusted operating income rose to $61.5 million, up by $35.8 million.
The Sphere segment brought in $175.6 million, an increase of 16% year-on-year. Other revenue grew by $4.8 million, thanks to work related to the Abu Dhabi project.
Smaller Spheres — A New Expansion Plan
Sphere Entertainment is also planning smaller-scale “Mini-Spheres” with seating for around 5,000 people. These venues would cost less and be built faster than the full-size Sphere.
“All content made for Sphere in Las Vegas and, later, Abu Dhabi will also be shown in these smaller Spheres,” Dolan explained.
The company has completed designs for these venues and is talking to potential partners in different markets.
Abu Dhabi’s Growing Role in Global Entertainment
Sphere Abu Dhabi is part of a bigger plan to make the UAE capital a leader in arts, culture, and entertainment.
Over the past few years, Abu Dhabi has invested heavily in museums, festivals, sports events, and creative industries. With exclusive rights for Sphere venues in MENA, the city will be able to attract even more international visitors.
What Makes the Sphere Unique?
The Sphere offers an unmatched live event experience. It combines advanced design, ultra-high-definition visuals, and immersive audio to make audiences feel like they are part of the show.
The Las Vegas Sphere’s interior features a 16K LED screen that wraps around the audience, creating breathtaking visuals. The outside is covered in LED panels that can display stunning graphics visible from miles away.
In Abu Dhabi, the venue will use cutting-edge sound systems that ensure perfect audio for every seat.
Boosting Tourism and the Local Economy
Sphere Abu Dhabi is expected to create thousands of jobs during construction and operation. It will also attract tourists who will spend money on hotels, restaurants, and shopping in the city.
If it matches the Las Vegas venue’s success, millions of visitors could come to Abu Dhabi every year just to experience the Sphere.
Year-Round Events for Everyone
The plan for Sphere Abu Dhabi is to keep the venue active 365 days a year. This means regular concerts, shows, and cultural events, alongside international performances and regional talent showcases.
The content will appeal to a wide range of audiences, from music fans and tech lovers to tourists and families.
A Bright Future for Entertainment in the Middle East
With the Abu Dhabi venue moving forward and plans for smaller Spheres underway, Sphere Entertainment is redefining live entertainment worldwide.
For Abu Dhabi, this project is more than a venue — it is a symbol of the city’s ambition to be a top global destination.
