Sphere Entertainment Partners with Abu Dhabi to Establish New Entertainment Venue

Sphere Entertainment Co. (SPHR) and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi are collaborating to establish the second global Sphere venue in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This innovative entertainment medium is expected to enhance the city’s entertainment offerings, benefiting residents and tourists.

James L. Dolan, CEO of Sphere Entertainment, emphasized that this announcement marks a crucial step towards creating a global network of Sphere venues. He also expressed his company’s pride in teaming up with D.C.T. Abu Dhabi to bring Sphere to their city.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of D.C.T. Abu Dhabi, echoed Dolan’s excitement, stating that Sphere will offer an extraordinary new form of entertainment to their residents and visitors. The partnership aligns with their Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for culture and innovation.

Following the successful launch of the first Sphere in Las Vegas in September 2023, Sphere Entertainment has been actively strategizing to expand its network of venues worldwide. This planned growth promises to open new revenue streams by leveraging the company’s expertise, proprietary technology, and original content.

Abu Dhabi’s Sphere will mirror the 20,000-capacity Sphere in Las Vegas. It is expected to be a significant attraction throughout the year, offering unique opportunities to experience events, concerts, and shows in a revolutionary setting.

Under the partnership, D.C.T. Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee for the right to build the venue using Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary designs, technology, and intellectual property. D.C.T. Abu Dhabi will fund the construction, with Sphere Entertainment providing development, construction, and pre-opening services.

After the venue’s inauguration, Sphere Entertainment plans to continue collaborating with D.C.T. Abu Dhabi. This collaboration may include annual fees for creative and artistic content licensed by Sphere Entertainment, use of Sphere’s brand, patents, proprietary technology, intellectual property, and operational services related to venue operations, technology, commercial, and strategic advisory support.

Sphere is a ground-breaking entertainment venue that hosts unique experiences, concerts, residencies from top artists, and marquee corporate events. The first Sphere, a Las Vegas landmark, opened in September 2023.

Sphere Entertainment Co. is a leading live entertainment and media company that operates two regional sports and entertainment networks and a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming product.

The Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi focuses on the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture, tourism sectors, and creative industries, aiming to enhance the city’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences.