Overview
- DCT Abu Dhabi’s pact with Sphere Entertainment, announced Thursday, set the Yas Island site between Yas Mall and SeaWorld, a $1.7 billion construction phase, and an end of 2029 completion target.
- The venue will seat up to 20,000 people and host three event types: proprietary immersive Sphere Experiences, concert residencies, and major brand events such as combat sports, conferences, and product launches.
- Officials plan to use the exterior LED exosphere as a digital canvas for Emirati artists and to stage shows that highlight local culture.
- Authorities said the project will support jobs during construction and create thousands more once open, with road, transport, and utilities upgrades coordinated by Abu Dhabi agencies.
- This will be the first Sphere outside the United States, echoing the Las Vegas model launched in 2023 and fitting Sphere Entertainment’s global expansion that includes a planned National Harbor venue.