Another Sphere is coming, this time to Abu Dhabi. Sphere Entertainment and the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi announced earlier this week that the second Sphere will be residing in the United Arab Emirates.
“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 Chief Executive Officer, 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 the first Sphere debuted in Las Vegas to acclaim last year, Sphere Entertainment has been pursuing plans to develop “a global network of Sphere venues,” says the parent company. The next Sphere will maintain the same scale as the 20,000-capacity Las Vegas venue, and will be located in a “prime spot” in Abu Dhabi, says Sphere Entertainment.
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According to the release, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee, with DCT Abu Dhabi funding construction of the venue. Once the venue is open, Sphere Entertainment will “maintain ongoing arrangements with DCT Abu Dhabi that are expected to include annual fees for creative and artistic content licensed by Sphere Entertainment.”
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “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. 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. 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.”