Abu Dhabi to Host Second “Sphere” Entertainment Venue After Las Vegas Success  

The world’s second “Sphere” entertainment complex, modeled after the massive dome in Las Vegas, is set to be built in the capital of the United Arab Emirates, The Associated Press reports.

The announcement, made by the Department of Culture and Tourism and Sphere Entertainment Co., signals a major expansion of the unique entertainment concept.

Under the agreement, Abu Dhabi will pay a franchise fee to Sphere Entertainment to build the second location using its designs. The Emirati government will finance the construction of the structure and also pay annual fees to Sphere Entertainment for creative and artistic content.

While the announcement did not disclose financing specifics or the location within Abu Dhabi, it highlights the Emirati capital’s ambition to diversify its tourism offerings beyond its neighboring city, Dubai.

The original Sphere in Las Vegas, a $2.3 billion project, opened in 2023 and has become a major attraction in the gambling capital. Its defining feature is a high-resolution LED screen that wraps around the 17,500-seat audience within the world’s largest spherical structure. This ambitious venue has already hosted concerts and sporting events.

However, the expansion of the Sphere concept has faced challenges. A proposed venue in London was rejected last year due to concerns about light pollution, among other issues.

The UAE, known for its energy wealth and ambitious development projects, is also preparing to open its first casino, currently under construction in the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah. Other sheikhdoms within the federation are believed to be considering similar ventures.

The Sphere concept is the brainchild of James Dolan, executive chair of Madison Square Garden and owner of the New York Knicks and Rangers. The announcement of the Abu Dhabi project saw Sphere Entertainment Co. stock rise over 6% on the New York Stock Exchange, a major boost after recent concerns about its scalability and profitability.

However, some projects in the UAE have experienced delays or failed to materialize due to economic downturns.

Trademark filings show Sphere Entertainment Co. has registered trademarks in Japan, Oman, and Qatar, although no concrete plans have been announced for these markets.