Abu Dhabi Commits $1.7B to Sphere Venue on Yas Island

Yas Island will be the location for Sphere Abu Dhabi, the first Sphere venue outside the United States.

The details:

• The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will invest $1.7 billion in the venue’s construction.

• It is expected to be completed by the end of 2029.

• It will be built on a plot of land between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

• It will host three main categories of events: immersive, multi-sensory productions called Sphere Experiences; concert residencies; and marquee and brand events covering everything from combat sports to conferences and product launches.

• It will have a capacity of 20,000, depending on the event’s configuration.

What they said:

• James Dolan, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment: “Sphere Abu Dhabi is the first step in realizing our vision for a global network of venues. Abu Dhabi is a premier international capital city, and its ambition, infrastructure, and position as a cultural crossroads make it a natural home for Sphere. 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.”