UAE to build world’s second Sphere following Las Vegas success

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to host the world’s second Sphere entertainment complex, following the success of the first in Las Vegas.

Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, in partnership with Sphere Entertainment Co., announced plans to bring the innovative structure to the Middle East on Tuesday.

The UAE capital will take on the project, which marks a major expansion of the brand into the region.

Under the agreement, Abu Dhabi will pay a franchise fee to Sphere Entertainment to use its designs.

Additionally, the government will fund the construction and provide annual fees to Sphere Entertainment for the creative and artistic content featured at the venue. While financial specifics and the exact location in the city were not disclosed, the project represents a significant move for the Emirati capital, which has been working to distinguish itself as a premier travel destination.

The original Las Vegas Sphere, a $2.3 billion investment, opened in 2023 as the city’s most expensive entertainment venue.

Known for its striking architectural design, the 17,500-seat Sphere boasts a high-resolution LED screen that wraps around half the audience, creating a one-of-a-kind visual experience.

The structure itself is the largest spherical building in the world, measuring 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide. Since opening, it has hosted concerts and sporting events, quickly becoming a must-see attraction in Las Vegas.

Efforts to expand the Sphere concept globally have faced challenges. Plans to build a Sphere in London were halted last year after Mayor Sadiq Khan rejected the proposal over concerns related to light pollution and other issues.

However, Abu Dhabi’s investment signals the UAE’s intention to push forward with high-profile projects that boost its cultural and entertainment offerings.

The UAE has been diversifying its economy and promoting itself as a top destination for leisure and entertainment. The country is also preparing to open its first casino, with the only confirmed site currently under construction in Ras al-Khaimah. However, other emirates are also considering the move as they seek to capitalize on the growing global tourism market.

The Sphere concept was developed by James Dolan, the executive chair of Madison Square Garden and owner of the New York Knicks and Rangers. Sphere Entertainment Co.’s stock rose over 6% on the New York Stock Exchange following Tuesday’s announcement, closing at $48.91 a share.

The company has faced criticism recently, with concerns about the scalability and profitability of its projects. Last month, Benchmark downgraded Sphere Entertainment to “sell” over worries about production costs and financial performance. Despite this, the expansion into Abu Dhabi suggests confidence in the Sphere’s potential to thrive internationally.

Trademark filings show that Sphere Entertainment Co. has also secured rights in Japan, Oman, and Qatar, though there are no confirmed plans for additional Spheres in these countries.

Newsweek has reached out to Sphere Entertainment Co. for comment via email.

The Associated Press contributed to this report