Abu Dhabi Plans $1.7B Sphere on Yas Island by 2029

Abu Dhabi officials and Sphere Entertainment Co. announced plans Thursday to construct Sphere Abu Dhabi, the first such immersive entertainment venue outside the United States, on Yas Island with a construction cost of $1.7 billion.

The spherical arena, set to open by the end of 2029, will rise between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi amid lush green surroundings. With a capacity of up to 20,000 depending on event configuration, it promises to blend advanced visual and audio technologies for concerts, proprietary multisensory productions known as Sphere Experiences, and marquee events including combat sports, conferences, and product launches.

The project underscores Abu Dhabi's push to position Yas Island as a global entertainment hub. Already home to attractions like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and the upcoming Disney theme park resort, the island lies minutes from Zayed International Airport. Sphere Abu Dhabi will feature an Exosphere, a massive LED exterior screen visible across the skyline, planned to display Emirati artwork and cultural installations alongside international spectacles.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu...