The rumours have been floating for a while but now we have it in writing. A second Las Vegas Sphere is in the works and the location will be the UAE. Now world’s largest spherical structure’s twin will find a home in Abu Dhabi. This $1.7-billion immersive entertainment landmark is smack in the middle of Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.
Will the Abu Dhabi Sphere resemble the Las Vegas one?
Vegas’ globe-shaped music and entertainment arena has captured imaginations, and social media feeds, worldwide since it opened in September 2023. Hypnotic illusions and endearing emoji faces displayed on its domed exterior screen made it a viral phenomenon.
The Abu Dhabi Sphere will replicate the scale and majesty of its Sin City counterpart. The project is backed by Sphere Entertainment and the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi and a great addition to the Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030.
It’s also on its way to match the gargantuan 20,000 seating capacity of the Vegas Sphere.
Highlights of the Abu Dhabi Sphere
The Abu Dhabi Sphere will be open year-round and host events beyond what UAE has ever seen, in “a revolutionary setting”. What exactly that means we’ll have to wait and watch.
However, if the flagship Sphere is anything to go by then expect a 270-degree bowl-shaped arena without corners that feels like looking into infinity and beyond.
The UAE version will also incorporate Sphere Entertainment’s proprietary designs, technology, and intellectual property. So, expect 167,000 loudspeakers and a digital exosphere made up of 580,000 sq ft (54,000 m2) LED displays which can display 1 billion colours simultaneously. Plans include displaying Emirati artists’ work on the exosphere.
The venue on route to host three main categories of events: signature Sphere experiences, concerts and brand events. Other exceptions include combat sports, conferences and product launches, to name a few.
The location between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will place it smack in the middle of Abu Dhabi’s top attractions. It is a short drive from Zayed International Airport and is sure to boost tourism.
When will the sphere open?
The DCT Abu Dhabi has publicly announced that it is on route to be completed by the end of 2029. This is the first step in Sphere Entertainment’s ambitious expansion plans to launch similar venues across the globe.
We’d throw caution to the wind and also hope for some legendary performances on opening night – an immersive U2 concert with breathtaking visuals wowed audiences at the Vegas Sphere’s launch.
