Abu Dhabi to Build World’s Second Sphere Venue in Major Entertainment Expansion

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Sphere Entertainment Co. have confirmed a partnership to construct the world’s second Sphere venue in the UAE capital. The announcement marks the first international expansion of the immersive entertainment concept following the opening of the original $2.3 billion venue in Las Vegas in September 2023. Franchise and Construction Details Under the terms of the agreement, DCT Abu Dhabi will pay Sphere Entertainment a franchise initiation fee to utilize its proprietary designs, technology, and intellectual property. The Abu Dhabi government will fund the construction of the venue, while Sphere Entertainment will provide specialized expertise in development, construction management, and pre-opening operations. The move is a core component of Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors annually by the end of the decade. The partnership extends beyond construction. Once operational, Sphere Entertainment will maintain a long-term agreement with DCT Abu Dhabi, providing licensed content, brand assets, and technical support. This includes high-resolution "Sphere Experiences" and…