The Sphere Expands to Abu Dhabi: Sphere Entertainment, led by Madison Square Garden executive James L. Dolan, is expanding its groundbreaking venue concept to Abu Dhabi. Following the success of the first Sphere in Las Vegas, which opened in September 2023, the company announced plans for a new 20,000-capacity venue in collaboration with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT). The Abu Dhabi Sphere will combine advanced technology with immersive storytelling, offering visitors unforgettable experiences.
The Sphere Expands to Abu Dhabi
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, shared his excitement about the project, emphasizing how it aligns with the city’s Tourism Strategy 2030. “Sphere Abu Dhabi will blend cutting-edge entertainment with culture, elevating our global reputation,” he said. The project aims to position Abu Dhabi as a leading hub for cultural innovation, setting new standards in immersive entertainment.
Sphere’s Global Expansion
Dolan stated that the goal for Sphere has always been to create a global network of venues. “This new location in Abu Dhabi is a major step toward that vision,” Dolan said. He believes the Sphere concept is reshaping live entertainment by offering transformative experiences. Through its partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi, the new venue will further enhance the Sphere’s impact on immersive art and entertainment.
The Las Vegas Sphere’s Groundbreaking Impact
The Las Vegas Sphere, the first of its kind, stands 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide, featuring a massive 16K-by-16K-resolution screen that covers its interior. The venue took seven years to build and cost more than $2 billion. Since opening, it has hosted major residencies from artists like U2, Phish, Dead & Company, Eagles, and Anyma. U2’s guitarist, the Edge, called the Sphere a “quantum leap” for live shows, describing it as an opportunity to transport audiences through immersive, computer-generated worlds, creating an entirely new kind of experience.