The project will be located between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. This area already features attractions such as Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, major hotels, and Yas Marina Circuit, while Zayed International Airport is just a short drive away.
Authorities project the construction cost to be around $1.7 billion, with a targeted completion date set for the end of 2029, according to Arabian Business.
Once operational, Sphere Abu Dhabi is anticipated to accommodate up to 20,000 attendees, depending on the event type and format.
Officials noted that the venue will integrate with a comprehensive infrastructure expansion plan that involves several government and semi-government entities, including Abu Dhabi Mobility, the Department of Energy, TAQA, Etihad Rail, and Aldar.
Plans for upgrades include road enhancements, utility developments, and improved access to the site, aimed at facilitating heavy visitor traffic on Yas Island during concerts, Formula 1 weekends, shopping surges, and holiday seasons.
This development coincides with Abu Dhabi’s ongoing growth in tourism. Reports indicate the emirate welcomed 26.6 million visitors in 2025, with hotel revenues reaching AED 9.1 billion. The hotel occupancy rate also achieved 81% during that year.
Sphere Abu Dhabi was initially announced in October 2024 when plans for the second Sphere venue globally came to light. The partnership advanced significantly in July 2025 after DCT Abu Dhabi and Sphere Entertainment finalized agreements concerning franchise rights, development, and pre-opening services.
Under the project structure, DCT Abu Dhabi will finance the venue’s construction, while Sphere Entertainment will supply the necessary technology, proprietary designs, intellectual property, and support services.
The venue aims to feature three primary categories of events: immersive Sphere Experiences, concert residencies, and major events such as combat sports, conferences, and product launches.
Programming will also emphasize Emirati culture and include opportunities for local artists to showcase their work on the Exosphere, the venue’s expansive external LED display system.
Regulatory filings indicate that DCT Abu Dhabi will be responsible for franchise-related fees tied to construction milestones, followed by quarterly royalty payments once the venue is operational. Additionally, the agreement grants Abu Dhabi exclusive rights to develop and manage Sphere venues throughout the Middle East and North Africa for at least 10 years post-launch in Abu Dhabi.
