Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Sphere Entertainment Co. have announced plans to develop Sphere Abu Dhabi on Yas Island, marking the first Sphere venue outside the United States. The project will involve a construction phase investment of USD 1.7 billion and is expected to be completed by the end of 2029.
The new entertainment landmark will be located between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, surrounded by Yas Island’s expanding network of theme parks, hospitality infrastructure and attractions. Officials said the development is intended to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s global tourism appeal while supporting the emirate’s broader economic diversification strategy.
Designed as a next-generation immersive entertainment venue, Sphere Abu Dhabi will host three major categories of programming: proprietary Sphere Experiences featuring multi-sensory storytelling, concert residencies and large-scale events ranging from combat sports to conferences and product launches. Like the original Sphere venue, the Abu Dhabi version will feature advanced experiential technologies and a massive exterior LED Exosphere display.
According to officials, the venue will incorporate Emirati culture and storytelling into its programming. Plans currently under development include immersive productions focused on UAE heritage, exhibitions of Emirati artists’ work on the Exosphere and concerts featuring regional Arabic artists alongside international performers. The project is expected to position Abu Dhabi as a leading global hub for entertainment, culture and immersive experiences.
Sphere Abu Dhabi will have a capacity of up to 20,000 guests depending on event configurations and is expected to create thousands of jobs during both construction and operational phases. Its proximity to Zayed International Airport and Yas Island’s existing tourism ecosystem is expected to further strengthen the island’s role as a global events and entertainment destination.
The announcement adds to Abu Dhabi’s expanding portfolio of large-scale tourism and cultural developments, including the Saadiyat Cultural District and the upcoming Disney theme park resort planned for Yas Island. Industry observers view the project as a major milestone in the emirate’s long-term strategy to attract international visitors through world-class experiential infrastructure.